Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to and give thanks for the life of Scott Thorkelson.
Scott was the member of Parliament for Strathcona from 1988 to 1993. On May 19 he passed away suddenly at only 49 years of age.
Scott was an Icelandic Viking from Gimli, Manitoba. He was passionate about politics and public service throughout his life. He was a leader in the Progressive Conservative youth wing, served as executive assistant to former fisheries minister, John Fraser, and was one of the youngest members of Parliament when he was elected.
Scott remained active at all three levels of politics and played a key role in the merger of Canada's two Conservative parties when he served as co-chair of the national policy committee.
Scott served his community tirelessly as a fundraiser for Big Brothers, finance director and chairman of the board for special Olympics Alberta, and president of the Scandinavian Business Association
Scott will be remembered by his many friends for his natural ability to connect with people, his sincerity and his genuine interest in helping people.
Scott was devoted to his family. All members of the House will join me in offering our condolences and saluting a dedicated Canadian who left us much too young. He will be missed.