Mr. Speaker, I rise in the House today to pay tribute to a dear friend and a pillar of the Montreal community who passed away recently.
François L'Heureux was a highly respected lawyer and a well-known, passionate activist in our great Quebec nation.
François was a very caring husband to his beloved wife, Marie, as well as a devoted father to his sons, Philippe and Marc, who are both living with autism spectrum disorder.
With his son serving as his inspiration, my friend François served as a tireless advocate for a more inclusive society, believing passionately in the principle of neurodiversity. His dedication led him to the implementation of a wonderful autism organization in Montreal, the Giant Steps school and resource centre, where he served on the board of directors for over 20 years, much of that as vice-president. His tireless efforts would benefit generations of autistic Canadians and their families.
I would like to offer my deepest condolences to his family. We have lost a great man.
I say goodbye to my dear friend François. May he rest in peace. May his memory be eternal.