It is with sadness that Mrs. Grant and I learned of the death of the Honourable Mr. Alex Colville P.C, C.C, O.N.S. 

Mr. Colville was an artist of extraordinary talent who used his gifts to capture significant moments in history such as Canada’s involvement in the Second World War and also the quiet moments of ordinary life in rural Nova Scotia. 

As one of the most celebrated artists of our time, Mr. Coleville was one of the first named Officers of the Order of Canada in 1967 and was later elevated to Companion of the Order of Canada in 1982 for a lifetime of outstanding achievement and merit of the highest degree, especially in service to Canada and to humanity at large.   In addition to the Order of Canada, Mr. Colville was awarded several honours throughout his life including appointments to the Queen's Privy Council for Canada in 1992 and the Order of Nova Scotia in 2003.  

As a student at Mount Allison during the 1950s, I was fortunate to have had Mr. Colville as a teacher.  I have fond memories of his lectures and feel privileged to have briefly experienced his famous wit and sharp intellect. 

On behalf of all Nova Scotians, Mrs. Grant and I wish to extend our sincere condolences to Mr. Colville’s family and friends.  Nova Scotia has lost a beloved son but his life’s work will be celebrated for generations to come.

Brigadier-General The Hon. J.J. Grant, CMM, ONS, CD (Ret’d)
Lieutenant Governor