Claude TAYLOR Obituary
Chairman Emeritus, Air Canada
(1925 – 2015)
It is with great sadness that the family of Claude Taylor announces his quiet passing in Montreal on April 23, 2015, one month shy of his 90th birthday. A proud Canadian, whose roots go back to Salisbury, NB, Claude was the younger child of Martin Luther Taylor and Essie Troop Taylor. In 1947, he married Frances Watters, and she, his loving wife of 66 years, died in November of 2013. Claude is survived by his brother Fred (Marjorie) and family in Salisbury, and by his children Peter (Karen Quinn) and Karen, both of Beaconsfield, QC. Dad was the very proud Papa of Austin, Adam (Tania Costa), Riley, Kimberly (Neil McMahon), Scott, and Shaun, and Great-Papa of Isabella, Shayla, Hayden, and Hartlyn.
In 1949, in Moncton, NB, Claude joined the fledgling Trans-Canada Airlines as a reservations clerk in the Traffic Division, remaining with the company and rising to become President and CEO of Air Canada in 1976, then Chairman in 1984. He remained with Air Canada, in Executive and Board positions, through the late 1990s-a career spanning nearly 50 years in the airline and aviation industry.
In 1986, Claude was made an Officer of the Order of Canada for having turned Air Canada into a world leader in air transportation and for his leadership of professional organizations at home and abroad. He received honorary degrees from the University of New Brunswick, McMaster University, and Concordia University.
Claude's outstanding leadership and dedication to the foundation of the Canadian airline industry had a profound influence on its development. He was proud of the part he played in Parliament's approval of the 1977 Air Canada Act, which transformed Air Canada from a subsidiary of Canadian National Railways (CNR) to a Crown Corporation in its own right. He then led Air Canada's privatization, with its stock first being offered on the public market in 1988. In 1985, Claude Taylor was inducted into Canada's Aviation Hall of Fame, in recognition of the impact of his efforts, which significantly changed the face of Canadian aviation. Internationally, he led the effort to restructure IATA in the 1980s, serving a term as its Chairman.
Claude Taylor also offered his considerable skills and business acumen to the community-at-large, chairing campaigns for Centraide and the Canadian Centre for Cultural Renewal and serving as Honorary Chair of the Governor General's Canadian Leadership Conference and as Chair of the Board of Governors of Concordia University. He received the McGill Management Achievement Award, the C.D. Howe Award, and the Canadian Operations Research Society Award. Claude is a Commander of the Order of St. John and was named the second Chairman of HRH, The Duke of Edinburgh's Canadian Commonwealth Study Conferences. Among his many other pursuits was involvement with the Boy Scouts: He proudly accepted the Silver Wolf Award and he attended many Canadian and World Jamborees. Always concerned about the welfare of others, he donated his time and resources to the Salvation Army, Concordia University, and the recently opened McGill University Health Centre (MUHC).
As a loving husband and father, devoted to his family and church, he would jet back from the other side of the world to attend school Christmas concerts and family events. A great baseball fan, he held season tickets to his beloved Expos and attended many games with his granddaughter, Kimmy. A proud Papa, he would walk the sidelines of his grandsons' Lakeshore football or baseball games, rain or shine. His Christian faith and his Christian community, Val Royal Baptist Church, were his rock and foundation. A founding member of the Church, he was both a life Deacon and occasional caretaker of Val Royal Baptist, attending weekly services up to and including the week before his death. He found great joy and comfort in the Gospel message and in his many friends in the congregation.
Claude Taylor lived and breathed Air Canada. He was immensely proud of the Air Canada family and the accomplishments of its people. Whether on an aircraft, or walking through an airport, maintenance base, or a department at HQ, he spoke with-and more important- listened to, all, asking personally for people's input and taking their advice to heart. Christmas Day would not start at home until after he called Air Canada staff working on Christmas morning at the airport and elsewhere, to wish them and their families a Merry Christmas.
The family would like to thank the third-floor staff at the Sunrise Residence (DDO) for their loving care of Dad over this past year since Mom's passing. Grateful thanks also to Reverend Elliott van Egmond and the congregation of Val Royal Baptist Church for their support.
A Funeral Service, for family members and close friends, will be held at Val Royal Baptist Church, 11800 O'Brien Blvd. Montreal, H4J 1Y8, on Monday, May 4, 2015 at 11 a.m. At Dad's request, there will be no advance visitation.
The family would like to invite all, especially his extended Air Canada family, to express their condolences and, especially, to celebrate his life and share their memories of him, at one of Dad's favourite places, the Forest & Stream Club, 1800 Lakeshore Drive, Dorval, (2.1 kms west of Dorval Avenue) on Monday, May 4, 2015 from 2 p.m.-7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions to the Val Royal Baptist Memorial Fund in the name of Claude Taylor would be appreciated.
Voluntas Commemoration is in charge of arrangements (www.voluntas.ca, 514-695-7979)
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
154 Entries
Lucy cote
March 24, 2022
Had no idea he had passed and my
Memories of him at AC were amazing. Always remembered peoples names and always a gentlemen. He was my mentor as a very young secretary. Offered his wine glasses for a shower in house. Always a gentlemen. Greeted his staff like they were his children. Miss him dearly. He was the best thing AC ever had. A true gentlemen with a heart on his sleeve. Years later saw him on a flight oh my god still remembered me. His memory of people was exceptional. Will deff plant many trees in his memory!
Loredana DV
April 23, 2016
A leader who loved his airline and was loved in return.
July 2, 2015
Karen, I am so sorry to hear of your dad's passing. Barry F.
georgepeter Herman
June 22, 2015
ALWAYS..a smile and appreciation, on flights I had HIM as a passenger...a true gentleman
How you can show support
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
May 29, 2015
I have fond memories of Claude Taylor arriving in Toronto for a business meeting, but he would often come and visit our Air Canada Ticket Office in Toronto, at the corner of Temperance and Bay. He would walk in, say hello to each of us, and always had time for a cup of coffee and a chat with our group known as "The Bay Street Rollers". He was part of our group, and such a genuinely nice person. I will always have these wonderful memories. After 47yrs with Air Canada, the visits by our "President" are still a highlight of my career. Carole Wilson.
Mike Nash
May 22, 2015
A Life Well Lived!
Loredana DV
May 22, 2015
Mr Claude Taylor, a name for me, synonymous with Air Canada. A fair, well respected, caring person who will be sadly missed. Rest in peace
Robin Wilson
May 21, 2015
My sincerest condolences to the family of Claude Taylor.
Claude was a true leader to the Air Canada family. He made us all proud to work for such a great company.
When my father Cy died back in 1986, Claude surprised my family by attending my father's service. That spoke volumes to the kind of man he was. It was because of this, that I joined AC. He was truly a pioneer and will be missed by all for his great efforts and achievements. May your family find peace and comfort in knowing how loved and respected he was by his AC family.
Bashir Fancy
May 21, 2015
My heartfelt condolences to the Taylor family on passing of a "Giant" Mr. Claude Taylor. He was a thorough gentlemen with an uncanny ability to remember each person by his/her name. I worked on a couple of projects for Mr. Taylor and my dear friend Don Ingham who also is no longer with us. Mr. Taylor was very genuine, caring and always made time to hear what you had to say. He was respected by all Airlines and certainly put Air Canada on the global Map. He will be sadly missed. I was privileged to have worked for him. Bashir Fancy
May 20, 2015
you're dad was like my dad not focused on work but family. a heart of gold not trying to be someone,just being who he was;a man of truth and love. your dads being is what I what to be,honest and expecting nothing in return thank you Mr. Taylor next to my dad you were an ace in my life
Louise Howell
May 20, 2015
My sincere sympathies to Peter and the Taylor family. Mr Taylor was a true gentleman and it was my great pleasure to have worked at Air Canada in those days he was President and CEO.
Lawson Tremellen
May 20, 2015
Mr. Taylor had the time for everyone and was always considerate and kind. He is resting in peace having earned that while here with us as a great leader and motivator.
Roman Klein
May 20, 2015
Our CEO will be greatly missed. He contributed greatly to the Canadian Aviation industry and established Air Canada as a global leader. Air Canada/Gemini 1975-1996-Roman Klein
Shirlee Schacter
May 19, 2015
Claude Taylor was one-of-a-kind! A wonderful man, so genuine, kind and considerate. Everyone in the Air Canada "family" loved him and his leadership inspired teamwork. Even with his busy schedule as President, he always took the time to make the rounds to speak personally to the workers in various departments when visiting Computer & Systems Services in Toronto and displayed a keen interest in each and every one he came in contact with. There will never be another Claude Taylor but his memory will always remain in the hearts and minds of the Air Canada family he solidified. Gone, but never forgotten.
Shirlee Schacter
John Ohlsson
May 11, 2015
To the Taylor Family,
Claude was a good friend and a true gentleman. He contributed greatly to the current success of Air Canada. He will truly be missed. My deepest condolences go out to the family. John Ohlsson
Dave Ohlsson
May 11, 2015
My deepest sympathies Peter to you & your family on the loss of your dad. From your old summer co-worker at Central Tracing in Dorval - Dave Ohlsson
Kris Ottosen
May 7, 2015
The best CEO we ever had at Air Canada.
He was an inspiration to us all
Francine Mandeville (retired)
May 6, 2015
My sincerest condolences to the Taylor family for your loss. I first met Mr. Taylor in the 80's and will never forget what a very fine and great man he was. He was so very classy and exuded a wonderful charm. He treated all his employees with kindness and respect and you always felt very special in his presence. He wanted Air Canada to be world renowned as a first class airline and he achieved that. May you take comfort in knowing that he was much loved by all his employees and held in very high esteem.
Natasha Vekris
May 6, 2015
My sincere condolences to the family for this great loss. I had the good fortune to meet your father in Toronto and visit his office in YUL on several occasions. Peter and Karen your father was a great leader and a wonderful human being loved, respected and admired by all. My thoughts are with you in this difficult time. You are lucky to have enjoyed so many happy years with him. May he rest in peace. He will not be forgotten.
Kevin Shephard
May 6, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
May 6, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Pauline Gust
May 5, 2015
He has sorely been missed as head of our once AC Family. He was our honourable leader, and I was a proud employee
Colette Gagne
May 4, 2015
Your father was a great boss, a great person and many should learn from his leadership. In the 30 years i've spent at Air Canada, the only momento I've kept is a commendation letter he hand-wrote me in the late 80's. It's a sad thing indeed, to hear of his passing. he'll no doubt be very missed. My thoughts & prayers go out to you all.
Gayle Comer
May 3, 2015
Dear Peter & family,
So sad to hear of the passing of your amazing father. He was an unforgettable man.
What a well written and honest tribute to him.
I see he has joined your mother and that can only be good.
Hugs to you & your family at this very difficult time.
Sincerely,
Gayle, Bob, Billy, Danielle, Patrick
& Buster the dog :)
Dick Wedge
May 3, 2015
I had hoped to attend the celebration of Claude's life on Monday, having worked for and with him at PVM , Montreal and can say that as a person and a leader, he had it all and gave his all to AC and its people. Claude did not ask you to do what he would not do himself, his leadership led to survival during critical times, and the stability today. May he rest in peace!Condolences to Peter and Karen.
P. (Jan) warwaruk
May 3, 2015
Claude Taylor
A true gentleman , an authentic individual who
Gained the respect of all employees who had the
Pleasure to work with him.
Larry Loretto
May 3, 2015
My fondest memory of "our boss" was of him sitting on the ground surounded by happy kids at a summer riding camp, having presented their graduation scrolls,one would have no clue to the fact that this kind man who took a day out of his busy life was in fact the CEO of one of Canadas largest corporations, he had the common touch to relate to children and inspire employees alike. A great Canadian indeed!
william goudkuil
May 3, 2015
Great man and a great legacy.He will be missed by all who knew him,Claude rest in peace.
Jacqueline Smith Barker
May 3, 2015
He was the most aprroachable and kindest, innovative President we ever had. He respected his employees and even attended a funeral of one of our colleagues at dorval airport. He congratulated me on the show I did for Air Canada 50 anniversary. He was very proud of the show and all the employees in the cast. There will never be another President as compassionate as he. He will be missed. Thank you Mr Taylor.
Tom Nutter
May 3, 2015
With sincere sympathy to all the family.many years ago, while growing up in Mont eagle, Claude ,and Fred made hay on our farm..they were hard working young men.. Claude,passing will be a great loss.. Tommy Nutter
Val Frost and "Bubbles", my Newfoundland Service Dog
Valerie M Frost
May 2, 2015
Dear family of Claude Taylor. My dad, David Harry "Archie" ARCHIBALD, worked in Line Maintenance at Dorval Base from the TCA days, including being one of the aircraft mechanics volunteered by TCA to the RAF Ferry Command, when it moved into Dorval Base. He knew your dad quite well, and vice versa. They respected each other highly. I have a letter dated March 31, 1988 from your dad, signed "Claude", wherein he expresses his gratitude for the Pratt and Whitney belt buckle which my dad made just for him. He added: "Archie, this buckle will be the subject of much conversation and will be one of my cherished pieces of memorabilia." With that in mind, I wish to express my sincerest condolences in the passing of a man who so impressed my dad with his down-to-earth understanding and respect of the common man. May your father rest in peace knowing this fact. Val Frost (nee Valerie M. Archibald, proud daughter of David Harry "Archie" Archibald, holder of his Canadian Active Armed Services Badge, Val Cartier, QC, Canadian Corps of Signals, Signalman / RAF Ferry Command Badge, as Bomber Mechanic, Dorval Base / and the King George VI War Medal (1939-1945).
Pat McEwan
May 2, 2015
Claude must have had a remarkable memory. He attended any Pionairs conventions and social events, where we met him many times. He always recognized and remembered my husband, Bil McEwan ( who was with TCA and Air Canada for 32 years. Bill passed away in 2012, aged 97. ) with sincere sympathy, Pat McEwan
Krystyna Misiak
May 2, 2015
Dear Family of Mr. Claude Taylor,
Our deepest sympathy on your profound loss. I will always remember Mr. Taylor as my boss when I started at Air Canada even though I worked at Toronto's airport. He was always fondly spoken about and very much respected by all the staff including myself. My Dad also worked for Air Canada but has passed a few years ago. So from one Air Canada family to another, I salut you and Mr. Taylor. May he rest in peace.
May 2, 2015
Dear Peter,
My thoughts are with you and your family...
Mister "T" was truly a remarkable, one-of-kind, gentle man and I feel blessed to have known him. He introduced my daughter and me to his church family at Val Royal and I look back on my 7 years with enRoute Card as the best of my career.
career.
Your father was in good hands before - now he is in God's hands forever more. My thoughts are with you and your family.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Barbara Fabian, Etobicoke, ON
Michael Hewitt
May 2, 2015
Deepest condolences to Peter and family. Your Dad was an inspiration, and a true gentleman, who had an amazing ability to speak to 25,000 people at once, yet make each and every one feel as if he was speaking personally to them. A privilege to have worked for him. May he rest in peace.
Todd Haverstock
May 2, 2015
Peter, My deepest condolences on your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family
Linda Magher
May 2, 2015
Dear Peter and Karen,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. When I worked in Government Relations I occasionally met Mr. Taylor in the course of my work. I shall never forget the consolation he brought me after the sudden death of my husband. He invited me to his office and gave me a beautiful prayer card inscribed with Psalm 23 which I still have.
May all of these comments bring you consolation and healing. I pray for the repose of his soul.
Denville Forde
May 2, 2015
Karen and Peter...
Your father's kindness to our family will be forever in our hearts. He was a true gentleman
Denville Forde, and family
Lee Carter
May 1, 2015
I was a Flight Attendant with Air Canada for 41 years. There were a number of occasions when I would be in the lobby of our layover hotel and Mr. Taylor would come up and introduce us and wish us a good flight.
Claude Taylor connected with many employees; he made us feel important, like he cared about whatever position it was that we worked at. There was never anyone afterwards that replaced him that held a candle to the excellence we all felt under his care. He was exceptional person and I feel honoured to have met him.
Colin C Jones
May 1, 2015
It's a sad day when the best President of this great Airline passes away.I was with the airline when he was in his prime & he states that he was proud of his employees, well his employees were proud of him. R.I.P. sir.
May 1, 2015
It was always a special day when Mr. Taylor came to the Toronto offices. He made everyone feel important and valued. We were fortunate to have him as our president. Nancy Wahlroth, Toronto
Elizabeth Chown Lafrenière
May 1, 2015
Dear Peter and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. May your special memories of your dad brighten all the coming days.
May 1, 2015
Mr Taylor was always such a gentleman to deal with. He deserved all the respect and highest regards that he was met with. Just one of his agents, Judy Kane
Gord and Phyllis Simons
May 1, 2015
Dear Peter and family,
Please accept our sincere condolences on the passing of your father. A truly great person both with Air Canada and the community at large. I had the privilege of working with your father for many years and always had respect and amazed at his dedication to Air Canada. May He rest in peace.
Joe Jacinto
May 1, 2015
Fond Memories of a very special and wonderful person.Our deepest condolences to your family as we share yourGreat loss. - See more at: http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/montrealgazette/claude-taylor-condolences/174744978?cid=gbsrchres#sthash.RozEQdry.dpuf
Philip Lewis
May 1, 2015
Rest peacefully in the arms of God
May 1, 2015
He truly was a great leader and canadian...
May 1, 2015
Deepest condolences to the Taylor family.
Claude was a treasured gift to everyone he met.
His unique talent of making everyone feel special was complimented by his slow ready smile.
Bon Voyage dear friend. You are missed
Sandy Hackson
Priceville On.
John Nadeau
May 1, 2015
When I was just a kid at Robert Giffard elementary school in the early 70's, I had a project to prepare and to present and I chose Aviation and Air Canada. Through my older brother Marc's friend Karen Taylor, I had had the pleasure of meeting her Dad who I simply knew, worked at Air Canada. Being an 11 year old and not knowing how senior Mr. Taylor was in the company, I just simply asked if he could help me. Without any pretense at all, Mr. Taylor just simply said "I would honored to" Needless to say, my presentation won!! This kind of genuine kindness and humility is never forgotten!!! Please accept my and my family's sincere and deepest condolences for your loss. John Nadeau
Deborah Lee
May 1, 2015
Mr. Taylor was a class act; I am so sorry for your loss. He was highly respected in the airline industry; there was the general sentiment that he was "one of us". My first Christmas in the Reservations office, I was astounded to get a call from him. He wanted to wish me, and my colleagues, a Merry Christmas. It is something I have never forgotten, as we will never forget this fine gentleman. My deepest sympathy.
Nicole Deveau
May 1, 2015
RIP Mr Taylor. You were a great man that left his mark on this world, not only as a Great AC President and CEO but also as a Great human being. Sinceres condolences to all of Mr Taylor's family.
Robert Garner
May 1, 2015
I joined Air Canada in 1974. I am so proud to have been part of the wondrous company that Mr Taylor built. He was a caring, approachable leader who brought together Canada's English and French cultures to create a world class airline that was a shining example of Canadian achievement. I am enjoying a comfortable retirement because of the solid company he built with a commitment to balance business goals with caring for his employee family. I will always keep him in my memory. Thank you Mr Taylor.
May 1, 2015
Fond Memories of a very special and wonderful person.
Our deepest condolences to your family as we share your
Great loss.
Fay DuQuesnay and Carol Yap Chung (Air Canada)
Gary Bocking
April 30, 2015
My sincere condolences to Peter and all members of the Taylor family. Claude Taylor was an exceptional human being and I was honored to have known him.
Robin Wohnsigl
April 30, 2015
Peter, Karen and family, please accept my condolances.
When I joined Air Canada in 1997
(well after Claude had retired) Claude made a special point of welcoming me to Montreal and Air Canada. That made quite an impression on me and is a demonstration of the true gentleman Claude Taylor.
Paul Thain
April 30, 2015
He was a great leader To us all
LAURETTE REES
April 30, 2015
An honorable and highly respected gentleman. For Mr. Taylor, it was all about the airline. Air Canada was very lucky to have him. There hasn't been anyone of his calibre since. My condolences to his family. His Air Canada family grieves too.
Madeleine Vaillancourt
April 30, 2015
He was the best and most valued President Air Canada ever had. We all loved and respected him. He cared about Air Canada and the employees, he listened to what we had to say. He will be missed but not forgotten. My deepest condolences to the family, thank you for sharing him with us.
Air Canada Dedicated Employee
April 30, 2015
As an Air Canada employee of many years I never ever met the man and yet I gasped with sadness when I heard the news of his death.
Be proud of your father. In some strange way, having him as our CEO and President was the closest feeling to having one I ever had.
I share in your sorrow.
Carol Wellington
April 30, 2015
Dear Karen & Peter and to your families,
Our parents had a friendship which started by simply being neighbors - and lasted almost 60 years. An incredible person who was so much to so many. From the Eulogy at my Mother's funeral, to the trips he made with my Dad to the Royal Vic. We are forever grateful. After reading of his accomplishments, he certainly did it all - including setting out tables for the church bazaars ! My deepest sympathy - truly a great man.
April 30, 2015
May he and the rest of the faithful departed,
rest in peace, Amen.
Sincerely, Lois Beckett
Doreen Turner
April 30, 2015
Mr.Taylor was the best CEO we ever had,he was very much like all the employees who worked for Air Canada.
RIP
April 30, 2015
RIP to a great human being!
David Mo Davies (YYZ)
Barry Rempel
April 30, 2015
Growing up I heard much from my father of the great leadership Mr. Taylor provided. In joining industry years later I was witness to the fact his legacy lived on. It was eloquently summed in the words inducting Mr. Taylor to the Aviation Hall of Fame.
"The unselfish dedication of his great leadership and administrative abilities in the service of his Nation and of his Company have been of outstanding benefit to Canadian aviation."
Well loved and truly missed.
Rita Rowe
April 30, 2015
A great human being.
My deepest sympathy to the family
Linda Penn
April 30, 2015
My Condolences to the Taylor family. I met Mr. Taylor at the Silver Broom in 1983. Every time I saw him after that he remembered my name. His ability to make each employee feel important and part of something big created a family atmosphere within the company. He cared deeply and so did we! I am honoured to have been a part of the AC team he created! He will always be remembered with love and respect.
April 30, 2015
When he was president, Air Canada was more than a Company. It was like an Institution with heart and warmth. Sadly it became just a Company when he left. He was a great leader and was sorely missed. My deepest condolences to his family.
Ray Wattier
Dennis Elton
April 30, 2015
Our deepest sympathy to Claude Taylor family. A gentle and caring man who always had time to talk to AC employees. Well respected by all, he sent me a pleasant retiring letter which I shall always cherish.
Glen Malfara
April 30, 2015
Mr. Taylor was a fine human being. He took genuine interest in the people that made up the Air Canada family. He always had time to stop and engage front line employees in conversation. He will always be remembered as a very classy man. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Bill & Ellen Arnold
April 30, 2015
Peter, Karen & family, Our deepest condolences on your loss. Our thoughts are with you.
Major Brian Venables
April 30, 2015
Claude Taylor will be fondly remembered by the community and his family. His contributions to make Montreal a better place are numerous and his service to the community was seemingly endless. His work, on behalf of the city's most vulnerable through many caring agencies including The Salvation Army was priceless. We are indebted to him for his leadership, support and service. Mr. Taylor was presented the highest honour a non-Salvationist can receive by the international Salvation Army, the Order of Distinguished Auxiliary Service. Today, we honour a friend and offer our prayerful support to the family
April 30, 2015
Best we ever had. A man of the people and for the people. A rarity.
Jim Cowan. Vancouver BC
Sharleine M. Haycock (Lee)
April 30, 2015
I am very sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure and privilege of meeting Mr. Taylor when he first took over as the new President & CEO. I was working in Ottawa personnel & admin. at the time. He came around and introduced himself to all the staff and I recall thinking "What a wonderful gentleman he is - so very genuine." My deepest sympathy and sincere condolences to all the family.
Warren Goodyear
April 30, 2015
In my 42 years with TCA and AC he was by far the best President the airline ever had. He put the airline and its people first.
Laurie MacLean
April 30, 2015
I had the privilege of working with Air Canada in the early years of my career in Calgary, while Claude Taylor was first President and CEO and then Chairman. I met him a few times as well, and he always exuded warmth and interest. I'm sure the family is aware that many of us fondly called Mr. Taylor "Uncle Claude". Under his governance, AC was a wonderful place to work. I am greatly saddened to hear of your loss. My deepest condolences to you all.
Larry Forseth
April 30, 2015
It is with sadness we read of the passing of this great man that was such a wonderful leader at Air Canada. I feel very priviliged to have been a pilot with the Air Canada that he was such a large part of.
"Bon Voyage" to a wonderful man.
Grace von Moltyn
April 30, 2015
My deepest sympathy to Claude Taylor's Family. A gentle and caring man. A true aviation icon. You will be remembered.
April 30, 2015
He made Air Canada a company to be proud to work under his direction. After 42 years with them it was never the same without him at the helm. Wonderful caring man.
Don Bridges
April 30, 2015
Joined TCA 1954 YXD radio op. Claude Taylor made us all proud.
RIP.
Denise Babb
April 30, 2015
My deepest condolences to the family of this great man who, under his outstanding leadership, made employees such as my husband very proud to be part of the Air Canada team. He described him to me as a down to earth man of vision, a leader with warmth, dignity and integrity.
April 30, 2015
Peter, Karin and all the Taylor family, please accept our sincerest condolences on the loss of your father. He was a good and gentle man and the best president Air Canada ever had.
David and Judy O'Neill, Welland Ontario.
John and Jackie Sanderson
April 30, 2015
Sincere condolences to Mr. Taylor's family. It is obvious from all the messages that we all have the same fond memories of a truly great and very kind man. Jackie and I experienced his kindness personally on more than one occasion but he kept it to himself. That's the man he was. R.I.P.
April 30, 2015
Peter. Our deepest sympathies. Your father will always be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
Alfred & Clara Berting, Okotoks, AB
Chas Freckleton
April 30, 2015
A wonderful person and a man who all employees of Air Canada respected.
Annette O'MEALLY Brennan
April 30, 2015
I was a passenger agent transferring from Dorval to Vancouver and I was seated in first class right next to Mr. Taylor. What a joy! What a man! Such a humble down to earth person. He made this ordinary employee feel so valued. I will never forget that experience. Without a doubt Air Canada's best and most important president. Rest in peace Mr. Taylor. We were so proud of our airline with you at the helm. Thank you
Gloria Bramucci
April 30, 2015
Such a kind man and a wonderful President, so many fond memories. My sincere condolences.
Rick Allen
April 30, 2015
Mr. Taylor,
A true Canadian aviation icon who will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace.
Jannet Tricarico
April 30, 2015
My sincere Condolenses to the entire Taylor family for the loss of a wonderful kind and generous man. I met Mr. Taylor many times in Vancouver and he was amazing - always remembered my name where ever we met even after years of not seeing each other. He was and always will be remembered as Mr.'Air Canada'- the best President ever - a true leader and loved by all. He will never be forgotten.
Warren Wallace
April 30, 2015
Men like Claude are few and far between. He WAS Air Canada during my 35 year service.
Captain Warren Wallace (Retired)
Denis LeBlanc
April 30, 2015
Had a great deal of respect for Claude attending many air canada functions in Moncton nb including our local staff golf tournaments and just dropping in to say hello at the station He was so easy to talk to and will be sadly missed RIP
April 30, 2015
It is with great respect and fond memories that we offer our sincere condolences to Claude Taylor's family ... we remember him well. Louise and Fred Miles, Kelowna BC
April 30, 2015
William Chopp and family send there condolences to the family of Mr. Claude Taylor . He was a great man . William Chopp ( Georgetown, On )
Bill Tate
April 30, 2015
A true gentleman and may his last flight have fair skies and following winds
Gerald A. Archambeau
April 30, 2015
I started with AC in 1967 in Toronto, and worked to become a Lead Station Attendant on the ramp after having worked for Canada's two railways. Mr. C. Taylor was one of the best that I ever worked for in the transportation
industry which I loved. Claude will be remembered for his fairness, and humanity towards his employees. RIP from Gerald A. Archambeau-author.
April 30, 2015
Claude Taylor was a true gentle-man, I recall the share issue launch, held at the QE in YUL, he bounded onto the stage, took off his jacket, rolled up his sleeves and said, let's get on with it. He loved AC and its people, from the post boy to the Vice Presidents and always had time to speak to people, but most importantly, to listen to them. The airline would not be what it is today without his leadership and guidance.
Derek Buckell (retired, LHR England)
Eva Hogan
April 30, 2015
my condolences to the family. I had the honor to have met Mr. Taylor many times at Toronto Airport, he was a kind man who cared about his staff and made a point of speaking to every. It was a honor to have met him.
Judy McKay
April 30, 2015
My deepest sympathy to the Taylor family! I wept when I heard of your Dad's passing! He was the "real" TCA/ Air Canada to me! Everyone was so happy to see him at the airport in Toronto. He treated us all with such respect! After he left his position it was as if all the air had gone from the Company,
Rest in peace Mr Taylor!
Judy Tomada-MacPhee
April 30, 2015
To the Taylor family, I offer my sincere sympathy. What a wonderful man he was. I was proud to work with him as our President at Air Canada. He was the best we ever had. He treated us all with respect. He would even call the reservations offices on Christmas Day, to wish all of us who were working, a Merry Christmas. I could sense God's love just pouring out of him, whenever I had the chance to speak with. Thank you for sharing him with us. Love and prayers to you all.
Showing 1 - 100 of 154 results
2744, boul. St-Charles, Kirkland, QC H9H 3B6
Make a Donation
in Claude TAYLOR's name
How to support Claude's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Claude TAYLOR's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
