Jean Andrea Bernard

It is with sadness in our hearts that we announce the passing of Jean Andrea Bernard (née Staples).

She is survived by Jacques, her loving husband and best friend of 61 years.  She leaves behind  three children, Richard, Linda and Philip. She was the proud grandmother to Victoria (Jamey Colaruotolo), Laura, Alex, Nicholas and Andrew.  Jean is predeceased by her siblings Eric (Robina), Shirley (John McCarthy) and Bob (Cynthia Jones).  She is also survived by her siblings Moonyeen Doucet (Regis), MaryAnn Ladd (Ross), Richard (Lorraine), Sandra McDonaugh (John), Beverley Taylor (Harry), Lionel (Lynn), Kathleen Lavallée (Lewis).

Born in La Tuque Québec, Jean always had a positive spirit and met the challenges in her life with a smile and a “can do” attitude.  She was a self made person who cut her own trail, and was a source of inspiration to the women of her generation.  Educated in Knowlton, in the Eastern Townships of Québec, she joined Bell as a filling clerk in 1961.   

During her 38 year career she rose to the senior executive ranks of Bell, and came to be known and admired for her business savvy but more so for her ability to transcend the trappings of executive privilege to connect with everyday people and employees.  She also dedicated herself to countless volunteer initiatives and actively participated on the boards of the YMCA of Greater Montreal, the Fondation Marie Vincent for abused girls as well as the Handicap Children Society.  In 1986, Jean was invested as an Officer of the Order of St. John.  In 1988 she was named Woman of the year in Management by the Chamber of Commerce of the Province of Québec, and in 1990 was awarded the IRIS by the Association of Human Resource Professionals in Québec.  

Jean lived a full and happy life.  At each step and turn she was accompanied by Jacques, and together they travelled the world and created beautiful memories together.  Her family rejoices at the thoughts of this life well lived.  

Family and Friends are invited to visit at Beechwood Cemetery and Funeral Services, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa from 10 o’clock Thursday, January 16, until time of Memorial Service in the Sacred Space at 11 o’clock.