Contributions to the tribute of John Biernat

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Todd uploaded photo(s)

Saturday, June 15, 2024

I just bought one of John's comic books! It's gorgeous and will be cherished. It's been a pleasure reading about his accomplishments and legacy. My condolences to his family and friends.

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Steven B. Posted Jun 17, 2024 at 9:01 AM

Thank you so much, Tim. John would be pleased to know that this cherished book has ended up in good hands!

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Mary Jang (nee Tucker) donated to GRAND RIVER HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

To say that John was inspiring is to barely scratch the surface of the influence he had on me. He made a difference in this world.

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David Finley donated to GRAND RIVER HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Wednesday, October 4, 2023

John was one of my all time favourite teachers. He long will be one of my best memories of my years at Northview Heights. My condolences on this big loss.

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David Finley posted a condolence

Monday, October 2, 2023

To the Biernat Family. I only recently learned of John's passing. I am so sorry for your loss. With this news, it feels like a bit of me has gone, too. I attended Northview Heights in the 70's, graduating from grade 13 in1975. John was among the best of my teachers, high praise as we were blessed with a strong group of teachers. John excelled in the classroom. I remember his Grade 13 Canadian history lessons. We were just kids, but I felt he respected us. John could give university-like lectures. He inspired me to major in history at U of T, where, some years later, I heard elements of of John's classes given by professors. I also will remember John for his tremendous support for extra-curricular activities, in particular our Intramurals program. He was the heart of that program. I last saw John at a Northview Heights reunion. If I recall correctly, that coincided with the school's 50th anniversary (2006?). Understandably, the event was a bit melancholic - where had the years gone? - yet still wonderful. There was John, as engaging as ever, with that same smile. We easily caught up and and reminisced. It was apparent that he also still fondly remembered the 70's. I promised to keep in touch, but alas, as is so often the case with good intentions, that was our last conversation. I could have and should have thanked him a million times over. Again, my sincere condolences. David Finley (aka "Intramural Al")

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Nick posted a condolence

Tuesday, September 26, 2023

I would like to offer my Condolences to the family of Mr John Biernat. I was a Student of Mr. Biernat at Georges Vanier Secondary School. While I didn't know him on any personal level I enjoyed being one of his Students because he made Class for me very enjoyable as I'm sure for many other kids as well. Rest in Peace My Friend.

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Caley McCarthy donated to GRAND RIVER HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

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Don Cumming posted a condolence

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Mr Biernat was my history teacher at Northview Heights S.S. He was also my badminton coach and point of contact for intramural sports. My study of history in high school inspired my subsequent studies at university- this grounding served me well throughout my career and fostered my passion for history that has enriched my life. He cared about kids, was a great listener and contributed to the life of the school. He was a dedicated teacher who positively touched the lives of young people. Thank you Mr Biernat!

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Katy Bell posted a condolence

Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Dear Leslie, Steven, Iris and Harper, I wish I had the right words. We are very sorry for your loss. from Katy, Steven, Zoey, and Stephanie

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Carolyn Clink posted a condolence

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

My condolences. John was my grade 10 history teacher in 1973/74. Class was always fun! One day he announced that there was a science fiction convention happening in Toronto that weekend and he gave us the details. I went. I saw him there selling comic books. It was the first of many SF conventions for me, and I thank John for introducing me to them.

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Forest Hill Family donated to GRAND RIVER HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Our thoughts are with you Leslie and family.

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Steven Bednarski uploaded photo(s)

Monday, September 18, 2023

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Steven Bednarski uploaded photo(s)

Monday, September 18, 2023

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Steven Bednarski lit a candle

Monday, September 18, 2023

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Marlene Cohn donated to GRAND RIVER HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Monday, September 18, 2023

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Keith Campbell posted a condolence

Monday, September 18, 2023

Dear Leslie, Steven, Iris and Harper, I am so sorry for your loss. I came to know John after he retired from teaching. He loved England and Scotland, as I found out on our three trips to the United Kingdom. Many days and evenings were spent at his homes in Toronto and Kitchener watching British T.V. series and films. He will be missed. Keith Campbell

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Steven Bednarski Posted Sep 18, 2023 at 10:19 PM

Dear Keith, it is so wonderful to hear from you. Thank you for your kind recollection of John. He loved his trips with you and often spoke about how much he longed to return to Scotland and England.

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Margaret Roberts posted a condolence

Sunday, September 17, 2023

John Biernat was an extraordinary teacher and made a huge impact on my academic life and my self-confidence. His preference for anything Polish (often awarding bonus marks) and his sense of humour enlivened his classes and our studies. We were so fortunate to encounter him at Northview Heights SS. My condolences to his family, who knew him best and loved him most. Thank you for sharing him with his students.

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Steven Bednarski Posted Sep 18, 2023 at 10:25 PM

Thank you for this wonderful anecdote and for your kind comments, Margaret. We appreciate them.

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Lorna Rourke donated to GRAND RIVER HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Sunday, September 17, 2023

Leslie, Steven, Iris, and Harper—we are sending you our love and sympathy on the loss of someone so important to your family. —Fred, Lorna, Joseph, Sam, and Anita

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Jeremy posted a condolence

Sunday, September 17, 2023

Dear Leslie, Steven, Iris and Harper, I was saddened to learn of John's passing. He gave me my first-ever job at Dragon Lady when I was only 14. Dragon Lady was a wonderful institution that fostered my own passion for sequential art, and a treasure trove of unique finds. As for John, he was a delight - with a sharp wit and a kind demeanour. I think back to my time there fondly, and I know John's legacy will live on. Best wishes in this time of grief, Jeremy

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Steven Bednarski Posted Sep 18, 2023 at 10:20 PM

Dear Jeremy, Thank you for sharing this kind memory! We are reminded in all this of the important role Dragon Lady Comics played in so many peoples’ lives. We are glad you think back fondly to that’s time in yours, and we know John appreciated having you there.

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David Seljak donated to GRAND RIVER HOSPITAL FOUNDATION

Sunday, September 17, 2023

Our condolences. David and Kate and co.

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Marlene Hutzul posted a condolence

Sunday, September 17, 2023

Dear Leslie and family, My deepest condolences. Your father was a great teacher...energetic ...always something on the go. He was well thought of by students and staff. We had many good drives in morning to George Vanier. And we had a delightful lunch at RCYC with all of us so that I could thank him for his generosity. He loved you very much! Take care, Marlene Hutzul Reesor

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Steven Bednarski Posted Sep 18, 2023 at 10:27 PM

Dear Marlene, thank you for these kinds words, which mean a lot to us at this time.

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The family of John Biernat uploaded a photo

Friday, September 15, 2023

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The family of John Biernat uploaded a photo

Friday, September 15, 2023

John Biernat

1941 - 2023