It is with great sadness we acknowledge the passing of a former board member, a financial visionary, and above all our friend, Ron Cliff.

Ron was a gifted businessman, who served as a Director of the Foundation’s Board from 2003-2011, and brought his expertise and knowledge of finance to accelerate the development of the Foundation.

As a member of the Investment Finance & Audit Committee and the Investment Task Force, Ron brought his in-depth financial and investment knowledge to bear and helped the Foundation improve its financial practices and investment returns.

Specifically, Ron was instrumental in the Foundation accepting flow through shares, which positioned us to raise millions more dollars in support of transforming health care in our communities.

“What Ron did for not just the Foundation, but many other charitable organizations benefiting British Columbians and Canadians across our country, was above and beyond the call of duty,” says Angela Chapman, President & CEO of VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation. “Ron’s keen mind and generous heart were a combination destined for success, and he used them both to greatly improve all of our lives. His legacy will live on as one which pushed the boundaries of medicine, and improved health care for all British Columbians.”

Born in Vancouver in 1929, Ron grew up and attended St. George’s School and eventually UBC, which he graduated from in 1949. He first launched his career in charter accountancy, which soon became one of many areas of business his entrepreneurial spirit took him. He later played key roles in developing, financing and managing a wide range of business.

Recognized for these skills and talents, Ron later became Chair of BC Gas/Terasen (FortisBC), Southam News and Canfor. He also sat on boards with the Royal Bank of Canada and Pacific Press.

Yet business was not his only passion. Ever the sports fan, Ron played a crucial role in securing the Vancouver Canucks as an NHL franchise.

Ron is survived by his wife Ardelle and children Diana Maughan (Walter), Leslie Cliff (Mark Tindle), Sheila Sharp, and Ronald Cliff (Nancy) and Ardelle’s daughter Reagan McLean. Together Ron and Ardelle had 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.