Jean Claude Besner

John was born in Crysler, Ontario, on February 14, 1934, the son of Ernest Besner (d.1955) and Catherine Hughes (d.1985). He grew up in Plantagenet, Ontario with his two older sisters, Thérèse (d. 2023), who was married to Jean-Guy Giroux (d. 2000), and Hélène (d. 1984), who was married to Jack Roy (d. 1997). Their father was the local bank manager. John had many interesting stories to tell about the years he lived at the bank, including a botched robbery.

John was blessed to marry the love of his life, Jocelyne Fraser, and they spent 61 happy years together. He was immensely proud of their four children, Anne (Paul Johnston), Ginette, Mireille (Neil Chander), and Marc (Miranda Hall), and his cherished granddaughter, Ryann. He was also very proud of his many nieces and nephews, especially his godson, Dr. Louis Giroux (d. 2020).

After moving to Ottawa, John worked for 33 years in the phototypesetting at Le Droit newspaper. But his greatest pride and joy was his family, which he always made his priority. Whether cycling, tobogganing, skating, playing "Jaws" in the pool, or fishing at Constance Bay, he never tired of spending time with and sharing activities with his family.

John loved cars, orange cats (especially Trix), red flowers, thunderstorms, and his daily newspaper. John was a handyman extraordinaire and, in his later years, almost had his silicone licence revoked. Always looking after small animals, he fed the squirrels peanuts, and the rabbits carrots. He enjoyed watching the parade of birds at the feeder just outside the front window. He loved a good meal and his Coke Zero. John had all the patience in the world and didn't sweat the small stuff.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Ottawa Humane Society or the Ottawa Mission would be greatly appreciated. These were organizations John held close to his heart.

Many thanks to the 7-East team of nurses, doctors, and staff at the General Campus of The Ottawa Hospital for the incredible care they gave our dad, husband and grandpa as well as their kindness and compassion.

A private burial of his ashes will take place in Plantagenet.

As John would say "See you later."

We love you, Pops.