Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great sadness to announce the passing of a true community leader in my riding of Okanagan—Coquihalla.
Mr. Ross Gorman was a co-founder and owner of Gorman Bros. Lumber, an industry-leading, value-added lumber mill that employs 350 people in my riding. Gorman Bros. Lumber is unique. When the mill was threatened with a serious forest fire some years ago, it was Gorman Bros. employees who risked their own lives to save it.
Ross Gorman was more than a great leader who built family relationships with those that he worked with. Mr. Gorman gave back to his community, supporting the Okanagan Masters Swim Club, the cross-country ski club, and Westside minor hockey, among others. Mr. Gorman was also a strong supporter of the United Way and the West Kelowna Community Food Bank, providing help to countless families in their time of need.
I ask that all members of the House join with me in recognition of Mr. Ross Gorman, a leader in our community and in our country, who will be greatly remembered.