It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Jean-Marie Bellefleur on Saturday, December 10, 2022 at the age of 93. Jean-Marie is survived by his son; Dean (Susan) and their children Erik and Natalie; daughter Bettina Kayser (Don) and their daughter Mary-Margaret. As well as, their younger daughter; Linda Hewitt (Jim), and their children Lauren and Harrison. He is also survived by his remaining siblings Maurice, Denis, Lise, Pierrette, and Francois. Predeceased by his parents Marie-Berthe LaPierre & Alfred Bellefleur, and siblings; Raymond and Gaetane.

Born in Lac-Megantic, Quebec on December 30, 1929. Jean-Marie Bellefleur was the eldest of 7 siblings and half-siblings. Having lost his father at an early age, Jean-Marie stepped in to provide financial support for the family and was looked up to as a mentor by his closest siblings. He began his military career in 1948, retiring 25 years later with the rank of Master Warrant Officer. While posted in Vancouver he met his wife Mary Alexson who predeceased him in 2005. Their first child Dean was born in Gander, Newfoundland with two daughters Bettina and Linda following shortly thereafter, both born in Nottingham, England. After a long and distinguished career with the Canadian military including NATO postings in France and Germany (1965-1970), the family returned to Montreal where the couple resided until 1984. Upon retiring, Jean-Marie devoted much of his time to swimming and long distance running, competing in various marathons including the Montreal marathon. With a desire to be closer to their children and grandchildren, the couple relocated to the Toronto area sometime in 1984.

In his later years and following the passing of his wife Mary in 2005 after their 52-year long marriage, Jean-Marie moved to an Amica residence in Mississauga where he could demonstrate his singing skills as he made many friends of staff and residents with his outgoing personality. As his health deteriorated, Jean-Marie moved to Villa Forum nursing home where he was comforted in his last months.

A special thank you to the staff at Villa Forum for their special care and compassion shown to Jean-Marie in his final days. A private interment ceremony will be held in Mississauga where he will be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife Mary. A private service and interment will take place, arrangements entrusted to Turner and Porter “Neweduk” Chapel, 905-828-8000. Online condolences may be made through www.turnerporter.ca