Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute on behalf of my constituents in the riding of South Surrey—White Rock and all of those who knew Bing Thom as a friend, father, husband, and extraordinary architect.
Bing was greatly admired not only in my community but across Canada and around the world. He was an exceptional individual and a dear friend. He, unfortunately, passed away suddenly while on a trip to Hong Kong this month. Bing's architectural work helped shaped cities around the world, from Seville, Spain, to Washington, D.C., to Hong Kong and my own home city of Surrey.
As a former mayor, it was a privilege to be part of his work and his process, but it was an even greater privilege to be able to call him a friend. His creative energy, contagious smile, and dedication to the community made him an extraordinary man. I would like to extend my condolences to his wife Bonnie and all of his family and friends in this time of grieving.
I thank Bing for his incredible heart and artistic foresight. He will be dearly missed.