Mike Schreiner, MPP for Guelph, issued the following statement regarding the passing of Dr. Bill Winegard:
“I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Bill Winegard. Dr. Winegard is a real Canadian hero.
I want to share my condolences with Dr. Winegard’s family. I know everyone in Guelph mourns your loss.
Dr. Winegard’s remarkable legacy will endure in Guelph and across Canada.
Bill was a true believer in citizenship and the importance of service. As a committed Rotarian, Bill exemplified the Rotary motto of service above self.
He served his country in World War II and later as MP for Guelph, where he served as Minister for Science and Technology.
Bill was a proud veteran and strong advocate for veterans. His passionate speech taking the government to task for failing to support veterans at the 2014 Remembrance Day ceremony is one that I will never forget.
Dr. Winegard’s service as President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guelph helped make the U of G the excellent university it is today.
Everyone I know in Guelph respected, appreciated and loved Bill. He believed deeply in our shared responsibility to each other. Bill was always willing to volunteer, to go the extra mile for people and community, and to advocate for the public good.
I especially enjoyed watching Bill at Rotary meetings and having the privilege of seeing him with his loving family at Remembrance Day ceremonies. I cherish our conversations about public service.
Sadly, we must say goodbye to a wonderful and remarkable person. Dr. Winegard will be missed, but not be forgotten. He will always be loved by those he touched with his kindness and compassion.”