I met him decades ago when he was first elected to the Ontario Legislature. The Progressive-Conservative Party (how's that for a psychological confliction or an oxymoron), was in Opposition. Jim came by a house in Etobicoke where a few of us party guys were having a few beers and encouraging each other to keep going amidst the darkness of the Ontario Socialists. A few years later, I met him again on a number of occasions as I was a Special Assistant within the new Conservative Ontario Government for which he was a Minister.
He upset me a little when as Federal Finance Minister he ended the income trust debacle and cost me a few bucks on the investment side of things but it was the right think to do for Canada. He also refused to let Canadian banks buy those U.S. mortgages and stood firm against their desires to merge. He did right for Canada and we are all better for it.
He was incredibly respected for his steady hand and he steered our country through a dangerous economic cauldron.
Jim Flaherty, up until just a month ago, Canada's Minister of Finance, died suddenly yesterday at the age of 64. He was dedicated to his family and his country and all Canadians owe him a debt of gratitude.
Jim, may your soul rest in the peace of Christ.