L.R. “Red” Wilson’s impact has been felt across generations of Canadians businesspeople and students. This biography honours a man who followed his interests wherever they led, sought out new challenges whenever he could, and above all, always worked to leave every place he stopped along better than he found it.
Tracing the contours of Mr. Wilson’s fascinating journey, renowned Canadian business historian Dimitry Anastakis brings to light an inspiring story of commitment, determination, and service. Born in Port Colborne in 1940, L.R. “Red” Wilson’s trajectory as a student, foreign service officer, senior civil servant, business leader, supporter of higher education, and philanthropist is an extraordinary tale of post-Second World War Canada. Mr. Wilson held executive leadership positions in some of Canada’s largest and most important firms, including Redpath Sugar, the Bank of Nova Scotia, and Bell Canada Enterprises. Recipient of the 1994 International Business Executive of the Year Award, Mr. Wilson was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1997, and he has received honourary degrees from several universities, including McMaster University, where he was Chancellor from 2007-13.
L.R. “Red” Wilson, A Canadian Journey portrays Mr. Wilson’s professional and personal lessons, learned from a lifetime of choices, and illustrates the importance of a strong character and astute values in achieving greatness.
Foreword
The Right Honourable David Johnston, 28th Governor General of Canada
Introduction
Part I: Early Port Colborne Lessons, 1940-58
Chapter One: Commitment
Chapter Two: Teachers, Role Models, Mentors
Chapter Three: Economy
Part II: Formative Years, 1958-67
Chapter Four: Education
Chapter Five: Sportsmanship
Chapter Six: Duty
Part III: Learning the Ropes, 1967-81
Chapter Seven: Experience
Chapter Eight: Apprenticeship
Chapter Nine: Service
Part IV: Leadership, 1981-2000
Chapter Ten: Leadership
Chapter Eleven: Responsibility
Chapter Twelve: Mentorship
Chapter Thirteen: Character
Chapter Fourteen: Determination
Part V: Philanthropy and Family, “retirement” 2000-
Chapter Fifteen: Modesty, Charity, History
Conclusion: Life, Lessons, and Legacies
Afterword
Height:216
Width:140
Spine:25
Weight:1.00