22 November 2010
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued this statement on the death of David Lam, who passed away after a prolonged battle with cancer:
“On behalf of Canadians, I extend heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of David Lam. Canada benefitted greatly from this generous man who was a well-known philanthropist and Canada’s first Asian-Canadian lieutenant-governor (British Columbia 1988-1995).
“David Lam will be remembered for his vision of Canada in which immigrants could maintain their cultural identity while integrating into Canadian society.
“He is also remembered as a successful entrepreneur – one who shared his advice on investments and partnership, while building lives and communities. Dozens of buildings, parks and gardens bear his name – as a tribute to his life and contributions.
“For his many works, David Lam was awarded the Order of Canada in 1988 and elevated to Officer of the Order of Canada in 1995. He was also awarded the order of British Columbia in 1995.
“We join his three daughters, seven grandchildren, other relatives and close friends in mourning the loss of this remarkable Canadian.”
