It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Dr. John Hennessy of Sudbury, Ontario on Sunday, January 23rd, 2022 at the age of 94. He passed away peacefully at home, with his family at his side after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Lena (nee Bettiol) and his children - Patrick (Robin); Anne (Gary); Michelle, Lisa, Tara (Rolando), John (Lia) and Colleen (Glenn). He is predeceased by his son Paul. He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren Patrick, Alex, Matthew, Leah, Sam, Isabel, Rafael, Jennifer and John Jr. John was born on January 11th, 1928 to Thomas Alban “Spike” Hennessy and Leoda Hennessy (Dumas). John was the youngest child and had two siblings, Thomas L. “Spike” Hennessy and Nora Meredith, both deceased. While growing up, the siblings spent summers at the family camp on Lake Panache. John was a lifelong resident of Sudbury. He went to Loyola College in Montreal for a Bachelor of Science Degree and the University of Ottawa, where he graduated from the Faculty of Medicine. He continued his studies at The Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit and the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh where he graduated with a specialization in Pediatrics. In 1959 he obtained certification in Pediatrics from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and returned to Sudbury where he practiced pediatric medicine for the next forty years. John was very active in the medical community. He was an active member of the Sudbury District Medical Society, the Canadian Medical Association and served on the board of directors for the Ontario Medical Association. Outside of work John loved his time in nature at either Lake Penage or his farm outside Sudbury. He was in his element while planting trees at the farm, working in his garden at home or fishing at Lake Penage. John shared his passion for nature with his children. Well into his 80’s he was always ready for the next trip to the farm or an evening of fishing at Lake Penage. John was a dedicated physician and family man. Generally reserved in nature with a great sense of humour, he had a sincere connection with people and had a vast network of friends across all walks of life. He was an independent thinker, avid reader and collector of books. He was thoughtful, generous and kind. John was a devoted husband, an incredible father, great uncle and a devoted friend to many. He will be missed by his family and friends.
Special thanks to Dr. Mary Olsten, Nurse Andrea and the many PSWs that helped, particularly Jessica, Guylaine and Eden. Friends may gather at the Jackson & Barnard Funeral Home 233 Larch Street, Sudbury, on Friday, January 28th, 2022 from 6-8pm. Masks are mandatory. A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, January 29th, 2022 at 11 am at Christ the King Church 21 Ste. Anne Road, Sudbury. He will be buried in the family plot in Lasalle Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations to Nature Conservancy of Canada would be appreciated. For donations or messages of condolence www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com.