Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honour the life of Donald Rickerd, a distinguished Canadian whose contributions to law education and public service left a lasting impact on our country.
Don Rickerd studied at Queen's, Oxford and Osgoode Hall. He practised law and served as a faculty member and administrator at York University. He later served as president of the William H. Donner Foundation and the Donner Canadian Foundation and participated in charitable and community work across the country. As a member of the McDonald commission, he helped strengthen accountability in matters of national security.
Beyond his formal achievements, Don was known for his generosity, intellectual curiosity and deep commitment to his students. A gifted storyteller and a warm presence, he built connections across generations and disciplines.
On behalf of the House, I extend my sincere condolences to his wife Julie, his son Christopher and all those whose lives were enriched by his kindness and wisdom.