Mr. Speaker, this week my hometown of Ancaster, indeed the greater city of Hamilton, lost one of its dearest citizens, Ray Johnson. The hon. member for Hamilton East—Stoney Creek paid tribute to Dr. Johnson yesterday, and I rise today to amplify that tribute to a truly great Canadian.
Known as a gentle giant to many, he had credentials that were impressive by any measure. He was Her Majesty The Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal winner for 2002, Ancaster Citizen of the Year in 2003, and Hamilton Citizen of the Year in 2005, but ultimately he shied away from recognition. Ray was a kind, selfless and caring person to the very core. Ray was best known as a tireless volunteer serving his community day in and day out, touching lives young and old, helping people overcome poverty and addictions, and so much more. Ray did this through organizations such as the Lions Club locally and internationally, the Children's Aid Society and the Police Diversity Advisory Committee, to name just a few.
Ray, your family, your friends and your country will miss you.