Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sadness that I inform this House of the passing of Mr. Ian Legaree, a dedicated public servant, tireless advocate for the North, and champion of youth and community development. Mr. Legaree passed away on January 17, 2025, leaving a legacy of service and a profound impact on countless lives.
Born in Atikokan, Ontario, on July 17, 1959, to Don and Vivien Legaree, Ian's roots reflected Canada's diverse heritage. He met his wife, Shawna Lampi, in Atikokan, and their marriage in 1981 marked the beginning of a remarkable partnership of nearly 44 years. They welcomed three sons: Alexander, Stephen, and Sean.
Mr. Legaree's commitment to the North began in 1984 with a two-year contract that lasted his entire career. From 1989 to 2020, he served as the director of sport, recreation and youth for the Government of the Northwest Territories. He played a pivotal role in numerous projects, including the Arctic Winter Games, the Interprovincial Sport and Recreation Council, the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games (NWT Program), and the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association. His leadership shaped the landscape of sport and recreation in our territory.
His dedication to the Arctic Winter Games was exceptional. Beginning in 1986, he participated in 19 editions of this vital circumpolar celebration, serving in various capacities from mission staff all the way to international director. His contributions to the games are immeasurable, Mr. Speaker.
Beyond his professional life, Mr. Legaree was a passionate volunteer. For over two decades, he coached and officiated swimming, inspiring countless young athletes, including a decade as head coach of the Yellowknife Polar Bear Swim Club. He also generously contributed to the Yellowknife Community Foundation for 30 years, from its inception. Even after retiring from the GNWT, Mr. Legaree continued to serve the territory, playing key roles in emergency response and recovery efforts during the challenging floods and fires of the early 2020s.
Mr. Speaker, Mr. Legaree's contributions have been recognized with numerous accolades including the Paul Harris Fellowship, the David Ramsden Career Excellence Award, Premier's Awards, and the World Leisure Organization Cornelius Westland Humanitarian Award.
Mr. Legaree was a man of diverse interests. He was a dedicated family historian, a keen sports enthusiast, and enjoyed traveling with his wife. He also had a passion for collecting interesting rocks and creating rock gardens.
Mr. Legaree leaves to mourn his wife, Shawna; Alexander and his husband Robin; Stephen and his wife Cindy; Sean Legaree; and his grandchild Burke. He is also survived by his siblings Robin Johnson and her husband Brent; Lorene Legaree and her husband Jeff; Kristi Legaree; and Blaine and Terri-Ann Legaree, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents Don and Vivien Legaree, and his niece Meredith Ivall.
Mr. Speaker, the passing of Ian Donald Legaree is a significant loss for the Northwest Territories. He was a true builder of our communities, a dedicated public servant, and a compassionate individual. He will be deeply missed.
A celebration of Mr. Legaree's life will be held on July 17, 2025, at the Legislative Assembly. Donations in his memory may be made to the Ian Legaree Youth Leadership Fund at the Yellowknife Community Foundation.
Mr. Speaker, I ask that this House recognize the extraordinary contributions of Mr. Ian Donald Legaree to our territory and extend our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Our condolences goes out to the family. I had the pleasure of working with the man; he was amazing. So thank God my Member from Frame Lake did that statement here in the House. Member from Frame Lake.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I'd like to seek unanimous consent to move item 6, recognition of visitors in the gallery, up to the current motion, Mr. Speaker.
