“Earl Orser was a very valuable Board Member who made a significant contribution to the Confederation Centre,” said Wayne Hambly, Chair of the Confederation Centre Board. “He was an enthusiastic and supportive member of the Board, and he will be greatly missed by everyone at the Centre. On behalf of the Board and everyone at the Confederation Centre, I extend sincere condolences to Marion and her family.”

Formerly the Chairman, President and CEO of London Life Insurance Company, Mr. Orser also held senior executive positions in other Canadian Companies including Molson Industries, T. Eaton Company, and Air Canada. Mr. Orser was not only a devoted family man and respected business leader, he also gave much of his time to community service by being involved with various Educational, Arts, and Medical Organizations. A Member of the Order of Canada, Mr. Orser had also been awarded many other honours including a Queen’s Jubilee Medal, Doctorate of Laws (University of Western Ontario), Fellow, Institute of Chartered Accountants, and member of the London Business Hall of Fame.

“The Confederation Centre of the Arts was very fortunate to have an individual such as Mr. Orser as a Board member,” said the Honourable Elmer MacFadyen, Minister of Community and Cultural Affairs, and Minister responsible for the Confederation Centre of the Arts. “His wealth of business experience was very important to the Board. He was able to quickly analyze and offer solid advice on any of the issues involving the Centre. On behalf of myself, and the Government of Prince Edward Island, I extend deepest sympathy to his family.”

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 8, 2005, at First-St. Andrew’s United Church, in London, Ontario.