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BISSONNETTE
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James BISSONNETTE
BISSONNETTE
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James BISSONNETTE

James Joseph BISSONNETTE

James BISSONNETTE Obituary

BISSONNETTE, James Joseph Zeno - 1936 - 2013 Loving husband and father. Passed away at the age of 77, surrounded by his loving family. Survived by Frances Helen (Piwowarcczyk-Parks) his wife of 51 years and their children Joseph (France), John (Karen), David (Linda), Peter (Jackie), Marie (Gerry) and Anne (Derek) as well as 21 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. Beloved brother of Geraldine, Theresa (Sal), predeceased by sisters Evelyn, Antoinette, and Rita and parents Mary O'Connor and Zeno Bissonnette. James spent his life both seeking and being found by The Lord. Raised by his widower father Zeno, along with 5 sisters, he knew both sadness and consolation from early childhood. James studied for the priesthood for four years but was called to marriage with Frances with whom he shared a profound love. James taught religion for 33 years at York Catholic school board (St. Roberts High School) and Toronto Catholic school board (Neil MCNeil High School). He was a constant defender of the unborn from abortion. He organized protests in front of Scarborough Centenary Hospital when they began aborting children and was arrested praying in front of the Morgentaler Abortion Clinic. He founded the St. Vincent de Paul chapter at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin parish in Grafton and founded breakfast clubs at a number of elementary schools. He also brought students to serve the poor at The Good Shepherd Refuge (Toronto). He made annual retreats at the Trappist Monastery of Our Lady of Geneseo sharing his faith with the many high school students who would join him. He was a regular visitor ministering to the inmates at Warkworth Penitentiary. James had a war fresh love for Our Lord and he eagerly sought to be the hands and feet of Christ to those in need. But the most inspiring gift James gave his children was his intense love for his wife Frances. He was the model disciple, husband and father and to have known him and loved him is to have been deeply blessed. May he rest in peace with our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in the communion of the angels and the saints. Visitation on Sunday, September 22nd from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at MacCoubrey Funeral Home (Cobourg). Funeral Mass Monday, September 23rd at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Grafton) at 11:00 a.m. Condolences received at www.MacCoubrey.com

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Published by Toronto Star on Sep. 21, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for James BISSONNETTE

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2 Entries

Fr. Gerald FitzGerald C.S.Sp.

September 22, 2013

Frances, I taught with Jim at Neil McNeil H.S. and admired him greatly. I am very saddened at his passing. He was a man of great faith which he shared with all his pupils. When the retired Neil teachers meet for their next monthly breakfast, his memory will be celebrated. Fr. John Geary, who is seriously ill himself, expresses his sorrow at Jim's loss. Jim gave John his companion Rory who lived to the ripe old age of sixteen years. I will offer Mass tomorow for the repose of Jim's soul. My sympathy goes out to you Frances and your children.

Jim Hughes

September 22, 2013

Dear Bissonnette family,
We are sorry to hear of Jim's death.
He inspired many with his Catholic faith and his courage in living it in the public square. He talked the talk and walked the walk with great fortitude.
May he rest in peace.
Our condolences to Frances and all the family.
Please be assured of our love and prayers.
Jim Hughes and staff
Campaign Life Coalition

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