John Berrigan passed away on February 14, 2026, in his 88th year, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family.
John was predeceased by his beloved wife Denise; his parents, Fernande and Alphonse; and his sister Maureen (Joe Klassen).
He leaves behind a loving family who will miss him dearly: his children, Shawn (Carmen) and Tracey (Michael); his treasured grandchildren, Madison (Matthew), Xavier, and Natasha (Diogo); and his adored great-grandsons, Max and Zachary. He will also be fondly remembered by his many nieces and nephews.
Born on September 13, 1937, in Saint-Romuald QC, John was raised in Belleville ON, where he attended St. Michael's Academy. It was there that he formed lifelong friendships that endured for decades and remained a cherished part of his life.
John met the love of his life, Denise, at Glenwood Grocery, where she was working as a cashier. Their chance meeting blossomed into a devoted marriage that spanned many years, filled with partnership, laughter, and unwavering commitment until Denise’s passing.
A man of deep faith and quiet strength, John was a dedicated and active member of Alcoholics Anonymous. He served faithfully as treasurer and organized numerous retreats for members, offering both leadership and compassion. An influential speaker and steadfast sponsor, John provided guidance, motivation, and nurturing support to countless individuals on their journey to sobriety. His example of perseverance and generosity of spirit touched many lives and created a legacy of hope that will endure.
John will be remembered for his kindness, his resilience, his strong sense of family responsibility, and his steadfast commitment to helping others. His life was a testament to love, friendship, and service, and his memory will live on in all who knew him.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caring staff at Portobello Retirement Home for their unwavering support and dedication to John during the past five years.
The funeral service will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026 at 11 a.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist Church, 161 Principale Street in Gatineau (Aylmer sector), followed by a light lunch. Family will be present as of 10:15 to receive condolences.
Messages de sympathie
John was a wonderful, caring man who always had time for me when life was a challenge. He had great stories and a wicked sense of humour. He was a titan in the lives of many and will never be forgotten. Rest in peace dear John, you can now once again hold Denise’s hand. Prayers and blessings.
Que mon soutien réchauffe votre coeur
- Colette Zaharie , le
25 février 2026
John will always be so fondly remembered in our family, as he was such an integral part of it. All our love, prayers and deepest condolences at this time to you all.
Tim Proulx and family
- Keri Boyer-Proulx, le
25 février 2026
Dear Tracey, Shawn, and family,
Sending our deepest condolences and love at this difficult time.❤️
In our thoughts and prayers,
Lisa, Matt, Ella and Allie
- Lisa Paquette Peters, le
25 février 2026
I remember when John and Denise started dating in Aylmer Quebec. They were both so comical. It was so sad when Denise passed away on Dec 5 2020. She and John are now together again.🙏They were the love of each other’s lives. Tracey and family, my deepest sympathies to all of you. But know that they are now together with their Moms and Dads. Angels smiling down on you and watching over you. Love n hugs, Eileen, for the McCaffrey family 💞💞💞
- Eileen McCaffrey , le
1 mars 2026
Tracey, Shawn and families, we were so sorry to hear of John's passing. He was such a wonderful neighbour and ready to help us with many projects. Both he and Denise have been missed since they both went into a home to be together. John has not been well for a long time now and he has suffered in silence. He loved his cottage life and being there for him was a slice of heaven. More than anything John was a help to so many in AA and his sobriety was his ultimate choice. We miss you John but we know you can rest easy with your beloved beautiful wife in the care of our Heavenly Father.
Que mon soutien réchauffe votre coeur
- Danny & Lorna Pantalone, le
3 mars 2026
Tracey, Shawn and family, I am so sorry to hear of John's passing. He was always a great friend to me and so many others. His sense of humour, caring and joie de vivre will be sorely missed by all who knew him. Bevan
Que mon soutien réchauffe votre coeur
- Bevan Bush, le
4 mars 2026
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