Ian Fergusson

Ian and I shared a cubicle, a fondness for Canada (and doughnuts), and a love of public service at the Congressional Research Service from our first days on the job in 2000 until my retirement in 2017. He was a joy to work with and merely to be around with a dry, wry sense of humor that matched my own. His passing is truly a profound loss.

Over the past few months, I have often been reminded of Ian and felt a twinge of bitterness over his passing, and that I never said goodbye. I am going to try to say goodbye here, and imagine that my words go up into the ether where Ian is eating some delicious locally-made European-style cheese while he reads the latest news about some never-ending negotiations over WTO modalities, or considers whether to spend the time and money to spruce up his antique car, which if I remember correctly,...

It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest sympathy to the friends and family of Ian. If it hadn't been for your amazing mother, Elsie, I wouldn't have had the pleasure of meeting you. Rest peacefully.

I liked you right from the start, brother, a few weeks shy of 20 years ago when we first met, and it’s been a wonderful two decades since as close friends and colleagues. I’ve said my piece with memories elsewhere. I’ll just say here that I’ll always miss you Ian, as will so many others. With the greatest affection, your friend, Nic

Ian Your friendship will be greatly missed.