Jean-Claude Morrissette, Architect of Quebec’s Memorial Cup Triumph, Remembered as a “Second Father”
Table of Contents
A visionary leader whose unwavering dedication brought the Memorial Cup to Quebec in 1996 has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and sporting achievement. Jean-Claude Morrissette, celebrated for his pivotal role in the Granby Prédateurs’ historic victory, was remembered by those who knew him as a profoundly influential figure both on and off the ice.
A Clear Objective: Bringing the Memorial Cup Home
In 1995, Jean-Claude Morrissette arrived in Laval with a singular purpose: to replicate the success he’d found elsewhere and secure a Memorial Cup championship for Quebec, specifically for the city of Granby. He joined his brother, Georges, and set about building a team capable of achieving this enterprising goal. On May 19, 1996, in Peterborough, that vision became reality as the Prédateurs delivered Quebec its first Memorial Cup win since 1971, a triumph that coincided with Guy Lafleur leading the Quebec Nordiques to their own playoff success.
A Final connection
Mike therrien, who coached under Morrissette during the championship run, shared a poignant recent exchange with the late hockey executive. “I spoke to him a few weeks ago,” Therrien recounted. “he was in Florida, at the same condo unit in Florida and he said to me: “See you in December, Mike, I’m coming!” He’s been seriously ill for the past few years, but he’s hanging in there. I’m going to miss him so much.”
Therrien emphasized Morrissette’s profound humanity. “Jean-Claude is the father everyone would have liked to have. His children, his loved ones, his players, it was gold to him. He did a lot for a lot of people, without bragging about it. When he loved you, he would have done anything for you.”
A Lasting Impact on Hockey Personalities
The sentiment was echoed by others in the hockey world. From Russia, where he currently manages in the Continental Hockey League (KHL), another coach shared his grief. “Jean-Claude was more than my general manager with the Laval Titan,he was my second father,” he wrote on Facebook. “Jean-Claude accompanied me on several of my sporting, leisure or business adventures, he was always there to encourage and support me. He changed my life. Thank you so much for everything you have done for my family. It’s not surprising that your heart gave way, you always shared it with those around you.”
Gaétan Roy, a former journalist for The Voice of the East who featured the Granby team on the publication’s cover following their win, described Morrissette as a “larger than life” character. “Jean-Claude had an explosive character, but he was extraordinarily kind,” Roy said. “And he knew so well what he wanted. And it was the Memorial Cup he wanted. He’s a winner for life.”
A Dream Realized: “Now I Can Die”
Morrissette himself considered winning the Memorial Cup to be the pinnacle of his career. As he confessed to The Voice of the East in 2021, “winning the Memorial Cup was my dream. Do you remember what I said back then? I said: “I would give my life to win this trophy!” And after we won, I said, “Now I can die!” That was exactly what I thoght at the time.” The Predators’ triumph dominated headlines across Quebec and English Canada, even making national television news on Radio-Canada. A week later, a massive celebration unfolded on principale Street, honoring the newly crowned champions.
Legacy and Recognition
Despite the team’s subsequent relocation to Cape breton a year later,Morrissette’s impact remained indelible. He retired from hockey following the move, though he continued to follow the sport. His contributions were formally recognized in 2013 with his induction into the QMJHL Hall of Fame. jean-Claude Morrissette’s legacy extends far beyond the rink, remembered as a mentor, a leader, and a man who dedicated his life to achieving his dreams and uplifting those around him.
