Murdo G. MacKenzie

I met Murdo in 1974 when I was a student from Britain just starting a course on a student visa in Canada. I interviewed with Murdo at Shell in Toronto. Many companies advised me to return to Britain after my studies and re-apply then. Murdo was the exception. He took an amazing personal interest in me and kept looking for a role for me somewhere with Shell. It took many months to get me in the door but he had a "never give up attitude" which I'll never forget. I stayed 31 years with Shell retiring as a Vice President of the company. I had several other senior colleagues at Shell who owed their start as well to Murdo. On moving back to Vancouver, I met Murdo again shopping for Greek food on Broadway. When I retired in 2007, I was honoured to invite him to a retirement cocktail party because I really owe my Shell career to Murdo who saw something in me which others bypassed. A true gentleman and a charming, active and vibrant man well into his 80s. An inspiration for us all.

I was privileged to meet Murdo through the Kiwanis in West Vancouver in 2011. Murdo always presented a very thoughtful opinion, often sprinkled with good humour and insight. He was very thoughtful in his desire to assist seniors find suitable housing, from those with limited means and those who could afford private care. He didn't differentiate and gave as much respect to one as the other. When Murdo decided to move to Comox to be close to his son and family, he continued to communicate with me from time to time, always interested in current affairs and the welfare of others. He chose well to move close to his family for what turned out to be his final years. I am glad to have known him for a short snapshot of his long and fruitful life. May his legacy and spirit live on in those who knew, loved and respected him.