Tuesday, November 09, 2010

Goodale Salutes Sask Hero

As a young Liberal growing up in Sask, i had many an opportunity to meet and speak with Senator Steuart... This unpretentious, great gentleman struck me as a kind and giving soul. He pitched in to help in any way, and was well-loved by young and old alike. He will be missed.

Ralph's comments:
DAVEY STEUART: ONE OF A KIND!

During this Veterans’ Week, we all need to take time to remember the incredible valour and fortitude of our Canadian Forces who have – and continue today – to put their lives on the line for our security and freedom.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to visit some of the battlefields in Europe where Canadians contributed so much to Allied victories in two World Wars. The cost was 110,000 Canadian lives.

Add the Korean War, multiple peacekeeping assignments and the current mission in Afghanistan, and you have a record of Canadian service and sacrifice that is truly extraordinary.

And when our war veterans return home, they continue to serve their country in countless ways. They help make our democracy flourish, for afterall, that’s what they were fighting for.

One of those amazing veterans who came home to build a distinguished career in business and public service in Saskatchewan was David Gordon Steuart of Moose Jaw, and later Prince Albert. We all came to know him as “Davey”.

Beginning in the 1950’s, he served as Mayor of Prince Albert and then a provincial MLA. He carried senior responsibilities in the cabinet as Minister of Natural Resources, Minister of Health and Minister of Finance.

He was also Deputy Premier. Then Leader of the Opposition. And finally, a Senator.

He was one of those who believed Saskatchewan had a great future, growing and diversifying far beyond anything imaginable in the 50’s and 60’s. He was pivotal in getting some of that growth started in forestry and potash.

How Mr. Steuart would relish the current debate about potash!

Most importantly, he was a man of great human warmth, a joyful outlook on life, and a wicked sense of humour.

Dave Steuart passed away last weekend and will be deeply missed across all partisan lines.



-- Post From My iPhone

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