John W. McGill

OBITUARY JOHN W. McGILL March 17, 1932 - October 10, 2006 John Williamson McGill, died peacefully in his sleep on October 10, 2006 in his seventy-fifth year in Beaconsfield, England. Eternally in love with his wife Cydney with whom he savoured life, laughter and fine food and wine. Steadfast and adoring father to his daughters, Jennifer (Cedric Canu), Colleen (James Rosenthal) and Sandra McGill, whom he raised with his first wife Terrie McGill. Loving step-father to Campbell (Catherine), Raymond (Caroline) and Neill (Gina) Ritchie. Adored as "Archie" to his grandchildren Alexa and Keira McGill, Jamieson, Caroline, Colin, Brennon, Lilly, and Carolina Ritchie. He was delighted to be welcoming his two new grandchildren to the world next spring. A loving brother, uncle, cousin and loyal friend, John was loved by many. Born in Westmount to Air Vice Marshall Frank McGill and Margaret Williamson, he was a Montrealer through and through, and maintained his roots in Montreal despite his retirement to the UK. He attended Trinity College School and graduated from McGill University with a degree in Commerce, where he was a celebrated member of the football team. He attained his advanced business education at IMD in Switzerland as well as at Harvard Business School. He was a man defined by his passions. He served with the RCAF from 1951 to 1954. His love of aviation drew him to a career at Canadair, Trans Canada Airlines, as the first president of Air Jamaica in 1969 and spent over 20 years of his career with Air Canada, culminating in his final position as executive vice president. He completed the last 10 years of his career as CEO of Canadian Liquid Air but he never lost his passion for aviation. He was a pillar of the English community in Montreal. His benevolence is exemplified by 25 years of service to the Montreal General Hospital, where he sought to create of a medical centre of excellence. He lived life to the fullest applying the same enthusiasm to fly fishing, entertaining family and friends with open arms, travelling the globe and always having adventures. He left an imprint on every life that he touched, a mentor to many whom he took under his wing. He lived his life with integrity and honour, and treated all people in his life with profound kindness and consideration. In accordance with John's wishes, a private family service will be held. A reception to celebrate his life will be held for family and friends. Invitations will follow. John is survived by his sister Isabel Cameron and his cousin Barbara Whitley. He was predeceased by his sister Nancy (Hector) Sutherland. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made the John W. McGill Memorial Fund c/o The Montreal General Hospital Foundation. 1650 Cedar Ave., Montreal Quebec H3G 1A4. "He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much." Ralph Waldo Emerson