John FRASER

1931 - 2024

The Honourable John Allen Fraser, P.C., OC., OBC., CD., K.C., the 32nd Speaker of the House of Commons passed away peacefully at the age of 92 in Vancouver on April 7th, 2024. He leaves behind his three daughters Sheena (Martin), Anna (Rob), Mary (Mike) and seven granddaughters, Cate (Mack), Danielle, Sarah, Lottie, Annie, Chelsea, Addie. While deeply committed to the service of his country, John's love for his family and loyalty to his friends was paramount. He was predeceased by his beloved wife Cate (Findlay) who was his best friend, and most trusted counsel and confidante for 59 years. His daughters, sons-in-law, and 7 granddaughters were his greatest pride. Born to Clarence and Lottie Fraser on December 15, 1931, in Yokohama, Japan, his family returned to Canada in 1934, eventually settling in Vancouver. As a teen, he worked in a lumber mill in the interior of BC, where he gained a deep appreciation for nature, and a stringent work ethic that carried him through law school at the University of British Columbia, Canadian Army Reserve training, and a life-long career in public service. His interests were varied and many. He was a voracious reader, passionate about music and sport, and was a lover of the natural world to which he dedicated his life protecting. An avid outdoorsman, he found joy and solace from his busy life in bird watching, fishing and horseback riding. John was a keen sport enthusiast that believed in the power of sport and competition to bring nations and people together. Through his love of skiing, he met his wife Cate, and their shared love of Whistler led him to the role of Chairman of the Vancouver Garibaldi Olympic Bid Committee for the 1976 Olympic Winter Games. His passion for justice and duty propelled him into public life, and in 1972, he was elected to the House of Commons to represent Vancouver South, and he did so with an unwavering commitment to the people he served. As a Member of Parliament for 21 years, he served as Minister for the Environment, Postmaster General, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, and Canada's first Speaker of the House of Commons to be elected by secret ballot by his peers. Behind the scenes, he advocated tenaciously for important causes and initiatives. One of his proudest moments while serving as Speaker, was being witness to the Government of Canada announcing redress for Japanese Canadians. Ahead of his time, his insights and dedication to environmental conservation came early in his career and are evidenced in countless initiatives throughout his life including leading roles in Canada US negotiations on Acid Rain, the protection of the Skagit Valley and South Morseby (Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve), South Chilcotin and the Pacific Salmon Treaty with the US. He chaired the Federal Pacific Fisheries Resource Conservation Council, and the Independent BC Pacific Salmon Forum. He served as the Ambassador to the United Nations for the Environment and Sustainable Development - a testament to his long-standing and steadfast advocacy for the preservation of the planet, and a tribute to his ability to represent Canada on the world stage with confidence, humility, and humour. With a deep appreciation for those who served their country, he proudly served as Honorary Lieutenant Colonel of the Seaforth Highlanders, and is a recipient of the Vimy Award for his contribution for the defence and security of Canada and the preservation of democratic values. Known for his mischievous humour, his sharp wit and his outstanding oratory skills, his intellect, curiosity, and unfaltering sense of fair play was a driving force throughout his life. His love for literature, respect for the law, and appreciation for the role history plays in shaping the future was evident in everything he did. He was kind to all, curious about everything, and dedicated to leaving his beloved Canada a better place for those who came after him. He taught us all about the honour that lies in being bold enough to believe in something, and brave enough to fight for it. He was a father who believed vehemently that there were no limits to what his daughters could achieve, an uncle who imparted sage advice to his nieces, nephews, and godchildren, and a very proud Grandpa – who asked us all every day what we were doing to serve our country. You taught us well Dad – and will be forever missed. A celebration of life in his honour will be held at St. Mary's Anglican Church in Kerrisdale, 2490 West 37th Avenue, Vancouver at 1:00 p.m., on May 31st, 2024.