Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to my friend Steve Butland, who served as a member of Parliament in the House from 1988 to 1993. Steve and I also served on city council from 2003 to 2015. He was a one-term mayor and did a fantastic job serving with great passion. He was a mentor to me and a partner in many initiatives. Together, we co-sponsored a motion declaring Sault Ste. Marie the alternative energy capital of North America.
I remember dearly a little story about Steve when he and I, as city councillors, visited the House of Commons while we were here for an AMO conference. We walked in the door and a guard remembered him fondly. A decade later, he remembered Steve's name and everything, such as what party he belonged to. It was quite amazing the impact that guy had on every kind of person, from all walks of life.
I send my condolences to Sharran; his daughters, Stefanie, Suzanne and Stacy; their husbands; and his grandchildren. Rest in peace, Steve.