elevated 139JN September 4, 1935 – December 1, 2021

elevated 139JN A journey that started in France over 86 years ago, that witnessed the tragedies of WWII Italy, traversed the boom and fall of 1960s Beirut, and that eventually found family joy in suburban Toronto ended peacefully on Dec 1. 

elevated 139JN Giovanni Piovesan was a writer and a teacher, but above all he was a husband, a father and a nonno. He has moved on from this world and now his great soul is free and is in the presence of God. Giovanni was a larger-than-life common man. From his home, he found ways to reach out with his great thoughts to touch the lives of many. His life’s work lives on in the countless students he taught during his over 30 years as a teacher at Brebeuf High School and St. Elizabeth. He taught French, Italian, Latin, Classical Civilization and World Religions as well as devoting extra time to coach soccer and help produce school performances.

elevated 139JN In each of these students from across those three decades, there is some knowledge and passion that was inspired by Giovanni. His life’s experiences are variably told with great humor and great empathy in the two books he wrote, The Other Side of War and What A Retirement. In addition, he wrote often on philosophy and religion, sharing his works with those around him. He loved life and life deeply loved him. He was the most popular guy in the neighborhood, his grandkids would scream “Nonno!” and run to him, and there is no way to count how many times he would be in public and a student would greet him with a “Hi, Sir!” 

elevated 139JN As far as he wandered, his home was always with his family. An overwhelming present force, he was always there. And now that he isn’t, the gap is enormous. Giovanni is survived by Aida, his wife of 50 years, his three children Ron, Christina and Carole, his seven grandchildren, and his large extended family. 

elevated 139JN “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness.” 2 Timothy 4:7

elevated 139JN In lieu of flowers, and for those who wish to, contributions may be made to the following organizations in John’s memory – 

elevated 139JN Our Lady Queen of the World Catholic Parish – https://www.olqw.com/donation

elevated 139JN Cancer Society of Canada – Prostate Cancer – https://cancer.ca/en/ways-to-give/personal-donation

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