Dear editor,

I am very sad at the passing of Peter Lougheed.

I first knew him in my role as a junior assistant in B.C.’s small team of people who researched and negotiated a position on patriation of the Constitution. 

From my ringside seat, I became acquainted with the traits for which Peter was legendary: his intellect, his ability to balance interests, his negotiating ability, and his incredible capacity to remember people’s names.

I then got closer to Peter when he played a pivotal role in forming the Asian law firm partnership, Bennett Jones Verchere Weston, for which I was the Asia-based leader. From Peter I learned key parts about running a meeting — notably, that no meeting should end without a recounting of the allocation of who was to do what, and by when.

For all Peter’s greatness, the trait that stands out most for me was his undying, quiet humanness. He was never arrogant, impatient, or unkind. 

Peter made it a point to remember my wife’s name and always to inquire about her career status. He knew what was important to his friends, and took that seriously. In that, more than anything, he was a model for other Canadians to follow. 

That’s why, I suppose, I dare to include myself among the enormous circle of people who take delight to consider ourselves “Friends of Peter.” 

I offer sincere condolences to Peter’s family members and friends.  We have lost a great one.

John Weston, M.P.

West Vancouver – Sunshine Coast – Sea to Sky Country