PIERRE JEAN JEANNIOT

It is with deep sadness, but also immense gratitude for an exceptional life, that we announce the passing of Pierre Jean Jeanniot, O.C., in Montreal on June 22, 2025, at the age of 92. He is survived by his charming wife, Marcia; his three children, Pierre (Sharon), Michel (Danielle), and Lynn (Serge); his grandchildren, PJ, Natalie, and Caroline (Carl); his great-granddaughters, Chloé and Charlotte; as well as many close family and friends. A visionary and builder, Pierre Jean Jeanniot left an exemplary mark on the history of civil aviation, both in Canada and internationally. From his beginnings at Trans-Canada Airlines to his role as President and CEO of Air Canada and then Director General of IATA, he applied his innovative spirit to the service of global air transport. He is credited, among other things, with the development of the first modern black box, a crucial advancement in aviation safety. Throughout his career, he has served on numerous boards of directors for several companies, notably in the aeronautics, high-tech, telecommunications, finance, and publishing sectors. Beyond his leadership roles in business, he has been deeply involved in academia and philanthropy. He served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), then of the UQAM Foundation, and was also its first Chancellor. He has left a lasting mark on education, culture, and social innovation. Recognized nationally and internationally, Pierre Jean Jeanniot has been honored numerous times, including: Officer of the Order of Canada (O.C.); Officer of the French Legion of Honor; Chevalier de l'ordre national du Québec; Inducted into the Quebec Air and Space Hall of Fame; Member Emeritus of several prestigious organizations; and Honorary Doctorate of the Université du Québec, McGill University, and Concordia University His warm laugh, his wisdom, his great generosity, his understated elegance, and his unwavering optimism will continue to inhabit the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. A memorial service and funeral will be held at the Côte-des-Neiges Funeral Centre at 4525 Chemin de la Côte-des-Neiges, Montréal H3V 1V7, on July 10th, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a service at 12:00 p.m. The family will receive relatives and friends to pay their respects, affection, and gratitude. The family extends its sincere thanks to the staff of the Jewish General Hospital who provided the necessary care until the end. For those wishing to make a donation in his memory, funds may be donated to the Université du Québec à Montréal, Jeunesses Musicales Canada, or the Jewish General Hospital.