The man who was President and Chief Executive Officer of Commonwealth Health Corporation for more than 35 years, has died at the age of 70.

John Desmarais died early this morning, at his home in Logan County.

He had joined Commonwealth Health in 1975, and retired in December of 2010.

During his tenure as President and CEO, Desmarais' vision created one of the most modern and complete health care campuses anywhere.

He led the expansion of Medical Centers in Franklin and Scottsville.

Desmarais is being called a visionary, mentor and friend by those who knew him.

His funeral will be held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Bowling Green, at 10a.m. Saturday.

Visitation will be at St. Joseph's from 3p.m. to 8p.m. on Friday, and starting at 8:30a.m. Saturday.