Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise in this House today to pay tribute to a friend, a respected educator, and a cherished member of our community, Ron Holtorf.
Ron passed away peacefully on March 15th, 2025, at St. Joseph's Auxiliary Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta. Ron was a devoted husband to Danetta, a loving father to Roger, Jolynn, and Richard, and a proud grandfather to Caitlin and Eric. He also leaves behind his sister Elizabeth and many dear friends. He was preceded by his parents, Jack and Helen, and his beloved grandson Christian.
Mr. Speaker, Ron was born in Kenora, Ontario, but it was the Northwest Territories he chose as his home, arriving in 1953. In Fort Smith, he built a life, rooted in love, service, and community. It was there that he met Danetta, and together they shared 51 years of marriage, years filled with laughter, mutual respect, and unwavering support for each other.
Ron was a passionate educator and a lifelong learner. He began his career as a teacher and later took on a leadership role at Aurora College where he eventually retired as president. His impact on northern education was profound, and his commitment to student success touched countless lives. He also served our community with distinction as a town councillor and volunteer. Ron believed deeply in giving back, whether through public service, mentorship, or simply offering a kind word. He had a sharp wit, a generous spirit, and a kind love for the land and the people of the North.
Even after the 2023 evacuation from Fort Smith due to the wildfire, Ron's heart never left the North. Although illness prevented his return, he worked hard to regain his strength at St. Joe's in hopes of coming home, a testament to his strength and resilience.
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the many healthcare workers, friends, and family members who stood by Ron through his final journey. In his memory, the family has asked that donations be made to your local food bank, a cause that was close to Ron's heart.
On a personal note, Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my gratitute for the role Ron and Danetta unknowingly played in my own life. My wife Karen first came to Fort Smith with her friend Shannon, a niece of Ron and Danetta name, and it was through that visit that Karen and I met. For that and for so much more, I will always be thankful.
Ron's legacy will live on in the community he helped shape, and in the lives he touched so deeply. We all miss him dearly as a friend, a mentor, and a true Northerner. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.