Pathetic Facts

Canadian music stars who deceased at age 69

Here are 25 famous musicians from Canada died at 69:

Doug Brennan

Doug Brennan (January 10, 1903 Peterborough-April 5, 1972) was a Canadian ice hockey player.

He played as a defenseman in the National Hockey League for the Chicago Blackhawks, Pittsburgh Pirates, Philadelphia Quakers, Detroit Red Wings, and Montreal Maroons. Brennan was known for his physical play and tough demeanor on the ice. He won the Stanley Cup with the Chicago Blackhawks in 1934 and retired from professional hockey in 1940. After his playing career, Brennan worked as a scout for the St. Louis Blues and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1962.

Brennan's father was a professional lacrosse player, and he played lacrosse as well before turning his focus to hockey. In addition to his NHL career, Brennan played for various minor league teams, including the Syracuse Stars and the Pittsburgh Yellow Jackets. During his time with the Philadelphia Quakers, he famously refused to wear the team's orange-and-black uniforms, insisting on wearing his favorite navy-blue ones instead.

After retiring from hockey, Brennan worked for a time as a salesman for a sporting goods company before becoming a scout for the St. Louis Blues. He was instrumental in discovering several key players for the team, including Red Berenson and Barclay Plager.

Off the ice, Brennan was known for his good nature and sense of humor. He was a popular figure among fans and fellow players alike.

Read more about Doug Brennan on Wikipedia »

Marshall McLuhan

Marshall McLuhan (July 21, 1911 Edmonton-December 31, 1980 Toronto) a.k.a. Herbert Marshall McLuhan was a Canadian educator, philosopher, futurist, writer, author and actor. He had six children, Teri C. McLuhan, Eric McLuhan, Mary McLuhan, Stephanie McLuhan, Elizabeth McLuhan and Michael McLuhan.

His albums include The Medium Is The Massage.

He died as a result of stroke.

Read more about Marshall McLuhan on Wikipedia »

Al Christie

Al Christie (November 24, 1881 London-April 14, 1951 Hollywood) a.k.a. Al E. Christie, Alfred Ernest Christie, Al E., Alfred E. Christie or Albert E. Christie was a Canadian screenwriter, film director and film producer. He had one child, Lenora Shirley Christie.

Al Christie started his career in the film industry as a vaudeville performer, and later joined the Vitagraph Company of America as a scenario writer. He gained success in filmmaking by producing and directing comedy shorts, and worked with many of the top comedians of the silent film era including Harold Lloyd, Snub Pollard, and Stan Laurel. In 1923, he and his brother Charles co-founded Christie Film Company, which specialized in producing comedy shorts. Al Christie also served as president of the Motion Picture Producers and Distributors Association (later known as the Motion Picture Association) from 1929 to 1930. Throughout his career, Christie directed and produced over 360 films.

Christie was known for his innovation and use of cinematic techniques such as double exposure, split screen, and close-ups. He also led the way in creating the concept of the Keystone Kops, a group of bumbling police officers who appeared in numerous silent comedies. In addition to his work in film, Christie was also a founding member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. However, despite his contributions to the industry, he faced financial troubles later in life and died in obscurity. Despite this, Al Christie's impact on the film industry is undeniable, and his contributions continue to be celebrated today.

Read more about Al Christie on Wikipedia »

Huntley Gordon

Huntley Gordon (October 8, 1887 Montreal-December 7, 1956 Van Nuys) a.k.a. Huntly Gordon was a Canadian actor.

Huntley Gordon began his acting career in silent films, where he frequently played serious, dramatic roles. He later transitioned to talking pictures and worked steadily in Hollywood throughout the 1930s and 1940s, appearing in over 100 films. He was known for his frequent roles as wealthy, aloof characters or authority figures, such as doctors or judges. Outside of his acting career, Gordon was also a skilled aviator and served as a pilot in World War I.

In addition to his career as an actor and his involvement in the military, Huntley Gordon was also a published author. He wrote several books on the aviation industry and served as a regular contributor to aviation magazines. In fact, he became a test pilot for Lockheed Aircraft Corporation, which at the time was an innovative and important company in the aviation industry. Despite his many achievements, however, Gordon struggled with alcoholism, which ultimately led to his death at the age of 69. Nevertheless, his contributions to both the film and aviation industries have ensured his place in history as a noteworthy figure.

He died caused by myocardial infarction.

Read more about Huntley Gordon on Wikipedia »

James McGill

James McGill (October 6, 1744 Glasgow-December 19, 1813 Montreal) was a Canadian personality.

He was a successful businessman and philanthropist who founded McGill University, one of Canada's most prestigious universities. McGill was born in Scotland and later moved to Canada where he became involved in the fur trade industry. He quickly rose to prominence in Montreal's business community and was appointed to the Legislative Council of Lower Canada. McGill was also known for his charitable work and contributed to the construction of several hospitals and schools in Montreal. In 1821, he bequeathed his estate to the establishment of McGill University, which has since become a leading research institution attracting students from around the world. Today, the university is named in his honor and stands as a testament to his dedication to education and philanthropy.

In addition to his role in the fur trade industry and charitable contributions, James McGill was also instrumental in the development of Montreal as a city. He owned a large amount of land and was involved in the expansion of infrastructure, including the development of bridges and roads. McGill was also a proponent of responsible governance and was an advocate for the establishment of a police force in Montreal.

Despite his success and achievements, McGill was known for his modesty and humility. He was described as a reserved and private individual who preferred to focus on his work and philanthropic endeavors. McGill passed away in 1813 at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy that continues to impact the educational and cultural landscape of Canada.

Read more about James McGill on Wikipedia »

Maurice Duplessis

Maurice Duplessis (April 20, 1890 Trois-Rivières-September 7, 1959 Schefferville) a.k.a. Maurice LeNoblet Duplessis or Maurice Le Noblet Duplessis was a Canadian lawyer and politician.

He served as the 16th Premier of Quebec from 1936 to 1939 and from 1944 to 1959, making him the longest-serving premier in the history of the province. Duplessis was known for his conservative and nationalist views, and for his support of the Catholic Church. He was a controversial figure, and his administration was criticized for its authoritarianism and its treatment of minority groups, including the Jehovah's Witnesses and the Duplessis Orphans. Despite this, he remains a significant figure in Quebec history, and is credited with modernizing the province's infrastructure and promoting economic growth during his time in office.

Duplessis was born in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Canada in 1890, and grew up in a family of politicians. He obtained a law degree from Université Laval in 1913 and started practicing law in his hometown. In 1927, he was elected as the Member of Provincial Parliament for the district of Trois-Rivières in the Legislative Assembly of Quebec, and soon became the leader of the Union Nationale party.

Duplessis was known for his strong opposition to communism and his support for the Catholic Church and traditional values. He sought to limit the power of labor unions and promote private enterprise, while also expanding social programs such as public health care and education. His administration was responsible for building hydroelectric power stations, highways, and other infrastructure projects that helped modernize Quebec's economy and improve the standard of living for its citizens.

However, Duplessis was also criticized for his authoritarian style and his treatment of minority groups. His government forcibly relocated Innu and Cree people from their traditional lands to make way for hydroelectric projects, and treated the Duplessis Orphans, a group of children who were mistakenly declared wards of the state, inhumanely.

Duplessis died in 1959 while on a fishing trip in Schefferville, Quebec. Despite his controversial legacy, he remains an important figure in Quebec history and played a significant role in shaping modern Quebec society.

Read more about Maurice Duplessis on Wikipedia »

Étienne-Paschal Taché

Étienne-Paschal Taché (September 5, 1795 Saint-Thomas, Quebec-July 30, 1865) also known as Etienne-Paschal Tache was a Canadian physician.

In addition to being a physician, Étienne-Paschal Taché was a politician and one of the Fathers of Confederation. He was a member of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Canada and later became a member of the Canadian Parliament. Taché played a significant role in the formation of the Dominion of Canada in 1867 and served as a member of the first federal Cabinet as the Minister of Militia and Defence. Taché was a strong supporter of Confederation and worked towards uniting the various British North American colonies into a new country. He also helped draft the British North America Act, which established the federal system of government in Canada. Beyond his political accomplishments, Taché was also known for his significant contributions to medical education and his efforts to improve public health in Quebec.

As a physician, Étienne-Paschal Taché was recognized for his outstanding work during a cholera epidemic in Quebec in 1832. He was appointed as the chief medical officer of Quebec City in 1833 and played a crucial role in establishing a quarantine station for ships to prevent the spread of diseases. Taché was also involved in the founding of the Medical Faculty at Laval University in Quebec City, where he taught courses in anatomy and physiology.

Taché's political career began in 1841 when he was elected to the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Canada. He served as the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly from 1848 to 1851 and later held several prominent cabinet positions, including President of the Executive Council and Attorney General of Canada East. Taché was a key figure in the negotiations leading to the Charlottetown and Quebec Conferences of 1864, where the foundations of Confederation were laid.

Étienne-Paschal Taché was widely admired for his intelligence, integrity, and leadership skills. He was also known for his love of learning and his dedication to public service. After his death in 1865, he was mourned by his colleagues and fellow citizens, who regarded him as one of the greatest statesmen in Canadian history.

Joseph Featherston

Joseph Featherston (July 22, 1843-July 17, 1913) was a Canadian personality.

He was a politician and businessman who was born in Toronto, Ontario. Featherston served as a Member of Parliament representing the Liberal Party for the riding of Hastings East from 1878 until 1882. He was also a member of the Canadian Senate from 1900 until his death in 1913.

Aside from his political career, Featherston was also involved in the business world. He was the president of the Ontario Temporary Loan and Savings Association and was a director of the Toronto General Trusts Corporation. Featherston was also instrumental in the development of the Canadian Pacific Railway and served as the president of the Dominion Bank of Canada.

Featherston was known for his philanthropic endeavors. He was a generous donor to several hospitals and charities, and was a founding member of the Toronto General Hospital. In recognition of his contributions, the Featherston Ward in the Toronto General Hospital was named after him.

Overall, Joseph Featherston was a well-respected and accomplished individual who made significant contributions to both the political and business landscape of Canada.

In addition to his political and business endeavors, Joseph Featherston was also a passionate supporter of the arts. He was a founding member of the Toronto Conservatory of Music, which later became the renowned Royal Conservatory of Music. Featherston believed that access to music education was important for everyone and was committed to making music accessible for all Canadians.

Along with his civic duties, Featherston was also a lifelong sports enthusiast. He was a founding member of the Toronto Athletic Club and was an advocate for physical fitness and healthy living. Featherston was an accomplished athlete himself and was often seen participating in sports activities such as tennis, golf, and curling.

Joseph Featherston's legacy continues to be felt in Canada today. His contributions to politics, business, philanthropy, arts, and sports have left a lasting impact on the country's cultural and social landscape. His commitment to making Canada a better place for all Canadians has and will continue to inspire generations to come.

Read more about Joseph Featherston on Wikipedia »

Roger Neilson

Roger Neilson (June 16, 1934 Toronto-June 21, 2003 Peterborough) was a Canadian sports commentator and coach.

Neilson is known for his innovative coaching methods, including the use of video analysis to study opposing teams and players. He coached several NHL teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, and Philadelphia Flyers. He is also credited with introducing the "1-3-1" defensive system, which has become popular in modern hockey. Neilson was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2002 for his contributions to the sport as a coach and commentator.

Neilson started his coaching career in 1966 as the head coach of the Peterborough Petes of the Ontario Hockey League. He worked his way up and eventually became a head coach in the NHL. Over his career, he coached over 1,000 NHL games and had a winning percentage of .475. In addition to coaching, Neilson was also a successful sports commentator and wrote several books on the sport of hockey. He was highly respected by his peers and players, who referred to him as "Captain Video" for his use of video analysis. After his death, the Roger Neilson House was established in Ottawa to provide hospice care to children with life-threatening illnesses.

He died as a result of skin cancer.

Read more about Roger Neilson on Wikipedia »

Mary Ann Shadd

Mary Ann Shadd (October 9, 1823 Wilmington-June 5, 1893 Washington, D.C.) also known as Mary Ann Shadd Cary or Mary Ann Camberton Shadd was a Canadian poet.

Mary Ann Shadd was actually much more than just a poet. She was a Black Canadian teacher, publisher, journalist, and abolitionist. She was an important figure in both Canada and the United States in the fight for Black rights and women's suffrage. She is best known for publishing and editing a newspaper called "The Provincial Freeman" which was dedicated to promoting the abolition of slavery and advocating for the rights of Black people in Canada. She was the first Black woman in North America to publish a newspaper. Shadd was also the first Black woman to vote in a general election in Canada. She later moved to the United States and became the second Black woman to earn a law degree. Shadd continued to fight for equality until her death at the age of 69.

In addition to her journalistic and legal accomplishments, Mary Ann Shadd was a gifted educator. She opened a school for black Americans in her hometown of Wilmington, Delaware, in the 1850s. She was also involved in recruiting black soldiers for the Union Army during the Civil War.

Shadd's family was highly influential in the fight for abolition and civil rights. Her father, Abraham Doras Shadd, was a prominent activist and newspaper editor, and her brother Isaac was also involved in the anti-slavery movement. Mary Ann Shadd's advocacy work took her across North America, and she spoke at numerous events promoting the rights of Black people and women.

Despite facing discrimination and hostility throughout her life, Mary Ann Shadd remained committed to her cause. She once wrote, "We should do more and talk less... We should raise our own children and not depend on white people to tell us how to raise them." Her legacy continues to inspire activists and journalists today.

Read more about Mary Ann Shadd on Wikipedia »

Pierre-Joseph-Olivier Chauveau

Pierre-Joseph-Olivier Chauveau (May 30, 1820 Charlesbourg, Quebec City-April 4, 1890 Quebec City) was a Canadian politician. He had one child, Alexandre Chauveau.

Chauveau was the first Premier of Quebec after Confederation and served from 1867 to 1873. He was also a prominent figure in the Conservative Party of Quebec and served as the party's leader from 1873 to 1876. Prior to his political career, Chauveau was a lawyer and was appointed to the Legislative Council of the Province of Canada in 1858. Chauveau was a strong advocate for the preservation of French Canadian culture and was a prolific writer and poet in his own right. He was also a founding member of the Royal Society of Canada and served as its president from 1882 to 1883.

In addition to his political and cultural contributions, Chauveau was also a prominent historian. He wrote several influential books on the history of Canada, including a comprehensive history of Quebec entitled "Histoire de la Nouvelle-France." Chauveau was also a strong supporter of education and helped establish the University of Laval, which would later become the Université Laval. In recognition of his contributions to Canadian society, Chauveau was knighted by Queen Victoria in 1888. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential figures in Canadian history, and his legacy continues to inspire politicians, writers, and scholars throughout the country.

Antonio Barrette

Antonio Barrette (May 26, 1899 Joliette-December 15, 1968 Montreal) was a Canadian politician.

He served as the 18th Premier of Quebec from 1960 to 1966 as a member of the Union Nationale party. During his tenure, he implemented policies aimed at modernizing the province, including the creation of a Ministry of Education and the expansion of the province's highway system. He was also responsible for instituting reforms in the healthcare system, including the creation of a public hospital insurance program. Prior to his political career, Barrette worked as a physician and was the founder of the Quebec Medical Association. He was also a noted philanthropist and donated a significant portion of his wealth to various charities and causes throughout Quebec. Despite his many accomplishments, Barrette's legacy has been clouded by allegations of corruption and his controversial handling of the Asbestos Strike of 1949.

The Strike resulted in the death of one miner and the injury of several others. Despite calls for him to take action against the asbestos company involved in the strike, Barrette, who was the Minister of Labor at the time, instead sent in the provincial police to break up the strike. He defended his actions in the aftermath, stating that the strike was illegal and that he had no other option but to intervene. Despite this incident, Barrette went on to have a long and successful political career, including being appointed to the Senate of Canada in 1967, just one year before his death. Today, he is remembered as a key figure in Quebec's political history, with a number of public institutions named after him, including a Montreal hospital and a library in Joliette.

Read more about Antonio Barrette on Wikipedia »

Daurene Lewis

Daurene Lewis (September 9, 1943 Annapolis Royal-January 26, 2013 Halifax Regional Municipality) otherwise known as Mayor Daurene Lewis was a Canadian nurse.

After completing her nursing studies and working as a public health nurse in Toronto, Lewis returned to her hometown of Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia. She became involved in municipal politics and was elected mayor in 1984, making her the first Black woman to be elected mayor in Canada.

During her tenure as mayor, Lewis was known for her progressive policies and focus on community development. She was instrumental in revitalizing the town's downtown area and promoting local tourism. Lewis also served as president of the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities and was appointed to the National Action Committee on the Status of Women by the federal government.

After stepping down as mayor in 1991, Lewis continued to work as a community advocate and served on numerous boards and committees. She was awarded the Order of Canada in 1992 and inducted into the Order of Nova Scotia in 2010.

She was born and raised in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia and was one of six children. Lewis's parents were prominent members of the local Black community and instilled in her a sense of social justice at a young age. Lewis attended Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia where she earned her nursing degree. She then moved to Toronto where she worked as a public health nurse for several years before returning to Annapolis Royal. In addition to her political and community work, Lewis was also an accomplished artist and musician. She played the accordion and was known for her beautiful voice, often performing at local events and gatherings. Despite facing racism and sexism throughout her life and career, Lewis remained committed to fighting for equality and justice for all.

Read more about Daurene Lewis on Wikipedia »

Richard Hanson

Richard Hanson (March 20, 1879 Bocabec, New Brunswick-July 10, 1948) also known as Richard Burpee Hanson was a Canadian personality.

He was a politician and served as the Premier of New Brunswick from 1935 to 1940. As a member of the Conservative Party of Canada, Hanson was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for York—Sunbury in 1917 and served as the Minister of Agriculture in the government of Prime Minister R. B. Bennett from 1930 to 1935. In addition to his political career, Hanson was a successful lawyer and businessman. He played a key role in the establishment of the Acadian Museum in Caraquet, New Brunswick, and was a strong advocate for preserving the cultural heritage of the province. Hanson's legacy as a respected leader and champion of the people of New Brunswick is still celebrated today.

Hanson was born to a prominent family in Bocabec, New Brunswick, and received his education at Mount Allison University and Dalhousie Law School. After completing his studies, he established a successful law practice in Woodstock, New Brunswick, which he maintained throughout his political career. In addition to his legal work, Hanson also served as president of several local businesses, including a lumber company and a gas company.

Throughout his political career, Hanson prioritized improving the economic and social conditions for people in New Brunswick. He was a strong advocate for public investment in infrastructure and worked to establish the province's first public works program during the Great Depression. He also supported the expansion of the province's transportation network and was instrumental in the construction of several bridges and highways.

Hanson's contributions to the cultural life of New Brunswick were also significant. He was a collector of Acadian artifacts and played a key role in the establishment of the Acadian Museum in Caraquet, which today houses one of the largest collections of Acadian artifacts in the world. He also participated in the preservation of historic sites, including St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, and was a major advocate for the conservation of natural parks in the province.

Following his death in 1948, Hanson was widely mourned by the people of New Brunswick, who recognized his many contributions to the province's economic and cultural development. Today, he is remembered as one of the most influential and respected leaders in the history of New Brunswick.

Read more about Richard Hanson on Wikipedia »

Arthur Sauvé

Arthur Sauvé (October 1, 1874 Québec-February 6, 1944) otherwise known as Arthur Sauve was a Canadian personality. He had one child, Paul Sauvé.

Arthur Sauvé was a journalist, editor, and politician in Quebec. He was the founder of La Presse newspaper in Montreal in 1884 and later became the editor-in-chief of Le Canada. In 1908, he was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Quebec, representing the district of Deux-Montagnes. Sauvé served as Quebec's Minister of Public Works from 1916 to 1919 and was subsequently appointed to the Senate of Canada in 1919, where he remained until his death in 1944. He was known for his outspoken and controversial political views, particularly his support for the use of the French language in Quebec. Sauvé was also involved in various charitable and cultural organizations, such as the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Society and the Montreal Symphony Orchestra.

In addition to his involvement in journalism and politics, Arthur Sauvé was a renowned historian and author. He wrote numerous articles and books on Quebec history, including a comprehensive history of Montreal. He was also a respected public speaker and was widely regarded as a leading authority on Quebec culture and society. Sauvé's contributions to Canadian politics and culture were widely recognized, and he received numerous honors and awards throughout his life, including the Order of Canada and the Order of St. Gregory the Great. Today, he is remembered as one of the most important figures in Quebec's history, and his legacy continues to be celebrated by scholars and enthusiasts alike.

Read more about Arthur Sauvé on Wikipedia »

John Jones Ross

John Jones Ross (August 16, 1831 Quebec City-May 4, 1901 Québec) was a Canadian politician.

He served as the Premier of the province of Quebec from 1884 to 1887. Prior to that, he was a member of the Legislative Assembly of Quebec and served as Minister of Public Works under Premier Charles-Eugène Boucher de Boucherville. Ross was known for his advocacy of Anglophone rights in Quebec and his opposition to the province's preeminence and control of the Catholic Church. Despite being a Protestant, he had a close working relationship with the powerful Conservative Catholic hierarchy of Quebec. Ross also championed greater autonomy for Quebec within the Canadian Confederation and supported the idea of a federation of British colonies in North America. After leaving politics, he became the President of the Quebec Harbour Commission and played a key role in the development of the city's port infrastructure.

During his time in office as Premier, John Jones Ross focused on improving public education, expanding railway lines, and promoting economic growth. He also introduced legislation to protect workers' rights and improve sanitary conditions in factories. In addition, Ross was a strong supporter of the arts and culture, and he worked to establish the École des Beaux-Arts de Québec, which is still in operation today.

Ross was born to a Scottish father and a French-Canadian mother, and he spoke both English and French fluently. He was known for his excellent public speaking skills and his ability to connect with people of different backgrounds and beliefs. Although he faced criticism from some quarters for his support of Anglophone rights and his close ties to the Conservative Party, Ross remained deeply committed to the people of Quebec and worked tirelessly to promote their interests. Today, he is remembered as a dedicated public servant who played a key role in shaping the history of Quebec and Canada.

Read more about John Jones Ross on Wikipedia »

Pierre Bourgault

Pierre Bourgault (January 23, 1934 East Angus-June 16, 2003 Montreal) was a Canadian writer, journalist, politician and actor.

He was one of Quebec's most prominent sovereigntist activists and served as the founder and leader of the Rassemblement pour l'Indépendance Nationale (RIN) political party. Bourgault was also involved in several media outlets and hosted his own television show, "La Soirée du hockey", for a time. In addition to his political and media careers, Bourgault was also known for his acting work, appearing in multiple films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s. Throughout his life, Bourgault remained a vocal advocate for Quebec independence and left an indelible mark on Quebec's political and cultural scene.

Bourgault was born in a working-class family in East Angus, Quebec. He was raised in a French-speaking household and attended the Université de Montréal where he studied literature and political science. After graduation, Bourgault worked as a journalist for several Quebec-based newspapers including Le Devoir and La Presse.

In the mid-1960s, Bourgault founded the Rassemblement pour l'Indépendance Nationale (RIN) political party with the goal of promoting Quebec independence. The party was one of the earliest and most influential sovereigntist movements in Quebec and helped pave the way for the more modern-day Parti Québécois. As the leader of the RIN, Bourgault was known for his fiery speeches and passionate advocacy for Quebec independence.

Throughout his career, Bourgault was also involved in several media outlets. He hosted his own television show, "La Soirée du hockey", which focused on hockey but also featured political commentary. Bourgault was also a prolific writer, publishing several books and essays throughout his lifetime.

In addition to his political and media work, Bourgault was also an accomplished actor. He appeared in several Quebecois films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s, including the iconic drama "Les Belles-Soeurs" and the critically acclaimed film "Kamouraska".

Pierre Bourgault died in 2003 at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy as one of Quebec's most important political and cultural figures. He is remembered for his unwavering commitment to Quebec independence and his contributions to Quebec's political and cultural history.

Read more about Pierre Bourgault on Wikipedia »

Charles Wilson

Charles Wilson (April 1, 1808 Coteau-du-Lac-May 4, 1877 Montreal) was a Canadian politician.

He served as a member of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Canada and was a member of the Conservative Party. Wilson also held numerous government positions, including Commissioner of Public Works and Receiver General. He was known for his advocacy of public works projects, such as the construction of railways and canals in Canada. Outside of politics, Wilson was a successful businessman, with interests in banking, manufacturing, and agriculture. He was also a prominent member of the Anglican Church and contributed to various charitable causes.

In addition to his political and business pursuits, Charles Wilson was an avid supporter of education. He helped to establish McGill University in Montreal and served as a member of its Board of Governors. Wilson also founded and served as the first chairman of the Board of Directors of the Royal Institution for the Advancement of Learning, which coordinated public education in Quebec. He was a strong proponent of providing accessible education for all, regardless of social or economic background.

Wilson's contributions to public life were recognized through several honors and awards. In 1867, he was appointed to the Senate of Canada, and he was later made a Knight Commander of the Order of St. Michael and St. George in 1876. Wilson passed away a year later at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to public service and education.

Read more about Charles Wilson on Wikipedia »

Simon De Jong

Simon De Jong (April 29, 1942 Surabaya-August 18, 2011) was a Canadian personality.

He was a notable architect who was widely regarded for his exceptional design skills which he showcased in various projects around the world. Simon De Jong received his Bachelors of Architecture degree from the University of British Columbia before embarking on his successful career. He was a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada and was also a member of the Architectural Institute of British Columbia. In his lifetime, Simon De Jong managed to establish his own architectural firm which was based in Vancouver, British Columbia. The firm was responsible for designing numerous high-profile buildings which were renowned for their stunning and innovative designs. Simon De Jong's work has been featured in several publications, such as the Canadian Architect, the Globe and Mail, and the Vancouver Sun.

Simon De Jong's architectural designs were not only limited to Canada, but also reached other parts of the world. He worked on the Vancouver Convention Centre Expansion Project, the Athlete's Village for the 2010 Winter Olympics, and the Terminal Building of Vancouver International Airport. Simon was also involved in numerous international projects, including the Great Hall of China at the Shanghai Expo, the Regal International East Asia Hotel in Shanghai, and the Yishan Golf Club in Kunming, China. His work was not limited to architecture, as Simon also specialized in planning and urban design, which led him to manage the Urban Design Group at the City of Vancouver. Additionally, Simon De Jong was recognized for his contribution to the Canadian architecture industry, as he was awarded an honorary degree by the University of British Columbia for his excellent achievements in his field.

Read more about Simon De Jong on Wikipedia »

George Grant

George Grant (November 1, 1918 Toronto-September 27, 1988 Halifax) was a Canadian writer, philosopher and political scientist.

Throughout his career, George Grant was known for his contributions to Canadian political theory and his critique of technology and modernity. He was a professor of Philosophy and Religion at McMaster University, Dalhousie University, and the University of Toronto. Grant was also active in politics, serving as a policy advisor to Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson and as a member of the Royal Commission on Bilingualism and Biculturalism.

Grant's major works include "Lament for a Nation", in which he criticizes the Canadian government's decision to integrate with the United States, and "Technology and Empire", in which he argues that technology has become a new form of imperialism. Grant also wrote extensively about Christianity and its role in the modern world.

George Grant's influence on Canadian political theory and philosophy has been significant, and his works continue to be studied and debated by scholars today.

Apart from his contributions as a philosopher, political scientist and writer, George Grant was also an accomplished athlete. He attended the University of Oxford, and represented Canada in track and field events at the 1948 Summer Olympics in London. Grant was also a talented rugby player and played for the Oxford University rugby team. His experiences as an athlete influenced his philosophy of life and greatly contributed to his belief in the importance of bodily fitness and the need for physical discipline. He believed that athletics could help individuals develop their character and become better citizens. Grant passed away in 1988 due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. In his memory, the George Grant Society was established to promote his ideas and preserve his intellectual legacy.

Read more about George Grant on Wikipedia »

Jean Marchand

Jean Marchand (December 20, 1918 Québec-August 28, 1988) was a Canadian personality.

He was a founding member of the Quebec nationalist movement known as the Rassemblement pour l'indépendance nationale (RIN) and played a key role in the Quiet Revolution of the 1960s in Quebec. Marchand also had a successful career in federal politics, serving as a Member of Parliament and holding several cabinet positions under Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, including Minister of Manpower and Immigration and Minister of Transport. He was one of the most prominent Quebecers in the Cabinet and was a strong advocate for the needs and interests of Quebec. After leaving politics, Marchand embarked on a successful career in broadcast journalism, becoming a popular television commentator on Quebec politics. He was widely respected as a passionate and dedicated advocate for Quebecois sovereignty and social justice.

Marchand's involvement in politics started in the 1940s and 1950s, when he became a member of the Cooperative Commonwealth Federation (CCF), an early precursor to the New Democratic Party (NDP). In 1963, he co-founded the RIN alongside other prominent Quebec nationalists such as Pierre Bourgault and Gilles Grégoire. The organization was a major force in the push for Quebec independence during the 1960s.

In 1965, Marchand was elected as a Liberal Member of Parliament for the Montreal riding of St. Mary's. He quickly rose through the ranks and was appointed to cabinet by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau in 1968. Over the course of his political career, Marchand held various portfolios, including Minister of Labour, Minister of the Environment, and President of the Treasury Board.

Despite his success in federal politics, Marchand remained committed to the cause of Quebec independence. In the aftermath of the 1980 Quebec referendum, which saw Quebecers vote against separation from Canada, Marchand retired from politics and became a regular commentator on Quebec affairs for the French-language network TVA.

Marchand was known for his wit, intelligence, and strong sense of principle. He was deeply committed to social justice and was a vocal supporter of labor rights and progressive causes. His legacy continues to be celebrated in Quebec as a champion of Quebecois identity and self-determination.

Read more about Jean Marchand on Wikipedia »

Wilfred Lucas

Wilfred Lucas (January 30, 1871 Norfolk County-December 13, 1940 Los Angeles) also known as Lucas, Norman Wilfred Lucas or Alexander Harvey was a Canadian film director, actor and screenwriter. His child is called John Meredyth Lucas.

Wilfred Lucas began his career in the film industry in 1913, after he was discovered by D.W. Griffith. He started off as an actor but soon transitioned into screenwriting and directing. He worked with Griffith on several films including "The Birth of a Nation" and "Intolerance". Lucas went on to direct over 200 films and write over 100 screenplays.

In addition to his work in film, Lucas was also known for his athletic abilities. He competed in several swimming competitions and was once a champion diver. He even wrote a book on swimming.

Towards the end of his career, Lucas worked as an associate producer for RKO Radio Pictures. He passed away in Los Angeles in 1940 at the age of 69.

Lucas was a prolific writer and director of silent films. He was known for his ability to create nuanced and emotionally-driven performances from his actors. Some of his most notable directorial works include "The Big Sister" (1916), "The Spitfire" (1924), and "The Sea Lion" (1921). Lucas also acted in films, often in supporting roles, and is known for his work in "The Birth of a Nation" (1915) as the character of Mr. Cameron.

In the early 1920s, Lucas co-founded the Independent Producers Corporation with producers Albert E. Smith and Harry E. Aitken. The organization aimed to provide a united front for independent producers to compete with major studios. However, the group eventually disbanded due to internal disagreements.

Outside of the film industry, Lucas was also a skilled writer and poet. He published several collections of poetry throughout his lifetime. His son, John Meredyth Lucas, went on to become a successful television writer and producer, working on shows such as "Star Trek" and "Mission: Impossible".

Read more about Wilfred Lucas on Wikipedia »

John Charles Fields

John Charles Fields (May 14, 1863 Hamilton-August 9, 1932 Toronto) was a Canadian mathematician.

He is best known for founding the International Mathematical Union and for creating the Fields Medal, which is considered one of the highest honors in the field of mathematics. Fields pursued his studies in mathematics at the University of Toronto and later at Johns Hopkins University in the United States. He worked as a professor at the University of Toronto for over 25 years and made significant contributions to the field of algebraic geometry. Fields was also a philanthropist and established the Fields Institute for Research in Mathematical Sciences, which has become a leading center for mathematical research and education around the world. Despite his achievements, Fields preferred to stay out of the public eye and remained dedicated solely to the pursuit of scientific knowledge.

Fields' passion for mathematics began at an early age when he taught himself calculus at the age of 16. He went on to complete his undergraduate degree in mathematics from the University of Toronto and then pursued his doctoral studies at Johns Hopkins University under the guidance of J.J. Sylvester. Field's thesis was on algebraic geometry, which later became one of his areas of expertise.

During his time at the University of Toronto, Fields gave several lectures and mentored numerous students, many of whom went on to become world-renowned mathematicians themselves. One of his most famous students was Albert Einstein, who Fields tutored while he was visiting Canada in 1929.

Fields was a man of many interests and talents. In addition to mathematics, he was also interested in music and was an accomplished pianist. He was also passionate about promoting education and the arts, and was a major donor to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra and the Art Gallery of Toronto.

Fields' legacy continues to live on through the Fields Medal, which is awarded every four years to the most accomplished mathematicians in the world under the age of 40. The medal has been awarded since 1936 and has become one of the most prestigious honors in the field of mathematics.

Read more about John Charles Fields on Wikipedia »

Samuel Smith

Samuel Smith (December 27, 1756 Hempstead-October 20, 1826 York, Upper Canada) was a Canadian personality.

Actually, Samuel Smith was not Canadian, but American. He was a soldier and politician from Maryland who played a vital role in the War of 1812. He served as a brigadier general in the U.S. Army and was in command of the American troops that defended Baltimore during the Battle of Baltimore. He is perhaps best known for his role in prolonging the conflict by refusing to allow the British to pass through Baltimore on their way to attack Washington, D.C. After the war, he served in the Maryland State Senate and was also a successful businessman.

Samuel Smith was born in Carlisle, Pennsylvania and raised in Virginia. He later moved to Baltimore, Maryland where he became a successful merchant and shipowner. He was elected to the Maryland State Senate in 1793 and served for several years before being elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1803.

During the War of 1812, Smith was instrumental in the defense of Baltimore. He worked closely with military leaders such as General John Stricker and Commodore Joshua Barney to prepare the city's defenses. When the British attacked Baltimore in September 1814, Smith was in command of the American troops defending the city.

After the war, Smith returned to politics and served as a U.S. Senator from Maryland from 1816 to 1832. He was a leading advocate for internal improvements such as the construction of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad.

Samuel Smith died on April 22, 1839, and is buried in the Old Saint Paul's Cemetery in Baltimore. His legacy in the defense of Baltimore during the War of 1812 is celebrated each year during the city's annual "Defenders' Day" celebration.

Read more about Samuel Smith on Wikipedia »

Diane Marleau

Diane Marleau (June 21, 1943 Kirkland Lake-January 30, 2013 Greater Sudbury) was a Canadian politician.

Marleau began her political career in 1984 when she was elected to the Canadian House of Commons representing the riding of Sudbury. She held that seat for over a decade and served in various capacities, most notably as Minister of Health under Prime Minister Jean Chrétien from 1993 to 1997.

During her time as Health Minister, Marleau oversaw the implementation of several key health initiatives, including the Canada Health and Social Transfer and the creation of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. She was also a strong advocate for better access to health care for rural and remote communities.

After leaving federal politics, Marleau served as the first female mayor of Sudbury from 2000 to 2003. She remained active in community affairs until her death in 2013, and was remembered as a passionate advocate for the people of northern Ontario.

Prior to her political career, Diane Marleau worked as a teacher and administrator in the Sudbury Catholic District School Board. She was instrumental in the establishment of the Rainbow District School Board in Sudbury, and served as its first chairperson.

During her time as a Member of Parliament, Diane Marleau was known for her dedication to fighting for the rights of workers and promoting economic development in northern Ontario. She was a strong supporter of the mining industry and worked to secure funding for infrastructure projects in the region.

Marleau was also a champion of women's rights and gender equality. She played a key role in the establishment of the Canadian Women's Foundation and was an active member of the National Action Committee on the Status of Women.

In recognition of her contributions to public service, Diane Marleau was awarded the Order of Canada in 2012. She was also honoured posthumously with the naming of the Diane Marleau Bridge, which spans the Vermilion River in her hometown of Kirkland Lake.

She died as a result of cancer.

Read more about Diane Marleau on Wikipedia »