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Ronald E Lawless
April 28, 1924 - August 14, 2017
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<div itemprop="description">After a life well lived, the family announces the passing of Ronald Lawless on August 14, 2017. He faced his last days with his usual optimism, sense of humour, dignity and courage, actively enjoying his family and friends. <br> <br>Ron was predeceased by his dear wife Marion and his beloved son Raymond. A very special father to his son David (Fredelyn) and daughter Jane and father-in-law to Luana. He is also survived by seven grandchildren Shane (Amy), Danielle (Mike), Jennifer, Jordan, Aaron, Katherine and Ailcnyl as well as six great-grandchildren. He will always be remembered and missed by his loving friend and companion Joan and her daughter Sandy. Special thanks to all those who cared for him so attentively and loyally, especially Jacky, his caregiver, as well as Lorraine and Sandy. Much gratitude to those who, over the years, brightened his last days. <br> <br>Ron was born to Kate and Charles Lawless and spent his childhood in Toronto. <br> <br>He was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Canadian National Railways in Montreal on January 1st, 1987, capping a career which began in Toronto when he signed on as Junior Clerk in the Company’s Express department in 1941. He served in the RCAF from 1943 to 1946. The early years with CN were spent progressing through the ranks of the Express Department into Senior Management, followed by increasing responsibilities in the development of container and the intermodal service. He became Vice-President of sales in 1972 and Vice-President of marketing in 1974, both positions located in Montreal. <br> <br>He was appointed President of the rail division in 1979 and its chief operating officer in 1982. His authority was extended beyond the rail division in 1985, encompassing other businesses conducted by CN. He was appointed President and Chief Executive officer of Canadian National with a seat on the board of directors. In addition to his role as President and CEO of CN, he assumed the position of President and Chief Executive Office of Via Rail in May of 1989. <br> <br>Ron was named Canada’s Transportation man of the year in 1986. He was appointed Doctor of Civil Law at both Bishops and Concordia Universities. He was inducted into the Canadian Railway Hall of Fame in 2004 in recognition of outstanding achievements in the industry. He was a knight of the Order of Saint John and became a member of the Order of Canada on July 1, 2007, with investiture at Rideau Hall in February 2008. He was awarded the silver jubilee medal in 2013 by her majesty Queen Elizabeth. <br> <br>Ron was active in helping the Old Brewery Mission and served as President and Chairman of the board for many years. He was Governor Emeritus, Concordia University and past present and member of Bishop’s University Corp. <br> <br>Ron touched so many peoples’ lives in a very positive and meaningful way and he will be greatly missed by all. His philosophy was that being happy does not mean everything is perfect. It means you decide to see beyond the imperfections and that’s exactly what he did. <br> <br>Ron rest in peace. We shall meet again. <br> <br>The family and Joan will receive condolences at Rideau Funeral Home, 4275, Sources Blvd., Dollard-des-Ormeaux, QC H9B 2A6 (514) 685-3344 on Wednesday, August 23, 2017 from 7 to 9pm and on Thursday, August 24, 2017 as of 10:30am followed by a Funeral Service at 11am. Reception to follow at the Beaconsfield Golf Club. <br> <br>In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Old Brewery Mission.</div>