In Memory of John Picard

John Picard was a visionary entrepreneur, a passionate supporter of local agriculture, and above all, a devoted family man.

John helped build Picard's into a business that became a destination for generations of customers across Ontario. His entrepreneurial spirit, determination, and love of creating something meaningful left a lasting mark on the community he cared so deeply about.

Never one to stand still, John later pursued another dream with the creation of Ramblin' Road Brewery Farm, combining his passion for farming, local ingredients, and bringing people together. His ability to see opportunity where others saw obstacles inspired those who worked alongside him.

John's dedication to agriculture and innovation was recognized throughout his career. In 2012, he was honoured with the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal and the Premier's Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence, recognizing his leadership, vision, and contributions to Ontario's agricultural and food sectors.

Away from work, one of John's greatest passions was baseball. He played the game throughout his life, spending many years as a catcher with the Rockford Yins ball team. Baseball taught him the values he carried into every aspect of his life—teamwork, perseverance, leadership, and commitment. Even after his playing days, John remained deeply involved in the sport as a coach, generously sharing his knowledge and love of the game with younger generations. For many, some of their fondest memories of John were made on the ball diamond.

While his business accomplishments were significant, John's greatest pride was always his family. He was a loving husband, proud father, brother, uncle, and friend. He led with generosity, humour, and an unwavering belief in hard work, community, and treating people well.

John's legacy lives on through the businesses he helped build, the community he supported, the athletes he mentored, and the family he loved so dearly. His influence continues to guide us every day, and his memory remains at the heart of everything we do.

He is deeply missed and forever remembered.

To our family, he was a devoted husband, father, mentor, and friend. To many others, he was a leader, coach, entrepreneur, and community builder. To all of us, he will always be a legend.

"Heroes get remembered, but legends never die."

— In Loving Memory of John Picard