Former Alberta premier Ralph Klein and a giant in the Canadian dairy industry will be inducted into the Order of Canada.
Governor general David Johnston announced June 29 that Klein, 69, who is struggling with dementia and respiratory problems in a Calgary nursing home, is being named an officer of the Order of Canada, the second highest level.
He was a journalist, mayor of Calgary and Alberta premier for 14 years before being shown the door by the party in 2006 as his popularity fell.
“While words are difficult, his face brightened, and he smiled,” his wife, Colleen, said in a statement June 29 after the announcement.
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“Ralph is ailing now, but will always remain strong and vibrant in the hearts and minds of Albertans and all who believe in public service and what it can achieve when offered inspiring leadership.
Also on the list of national honours was Montreal-area dairy industry executive and innovator Emanuele Saputo, who turned a small Quebec dairy processing industry into Saputo Foods Ltd., one of the world’s largest dairy processors and cheese producers.
Saputo has been named a member of the Order of Canada.
