Ralph Klein appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada

CALGARY – Former Alberta premier Ralph Klein was made an Officer of the Order of Canada on Tuesday, in a heartfelt ceremony at Calgary’s City Hall.

It was announced earlier this year that Klein would be appointed an Officer, but he was unable to attend a ceremony at Rideau Hall in May, due to his illness.

Klein is battling a form of dementia and no longer makes public appearances, so Gov.-Gen. David Johnston presented the insignia of Officer of the Order of Canada to Colleen Klein, who accepted it on her husband’s behalf.

“It was very emotional,” said former deputy premier Shirley McClellan. “I think every one of us wished Ralph could’ve been there to accept himself.

“We’re overcome by how gracious Colleen was in acceptance-there’s no question it was a Ralph and Colleen team.”

Prior to entering provincial politics, Klein served three terms as mayor of Calgary, during which time the city hosted the 1988 winter Olympics.

Klein was elected leader of Alberta’s Progressive Conservative Party on Dec. 5, 1992 and was sworn in as Alberta’s 12th premier nine days later.

He then led the party to victory in 1993 and again in 1997 and 2001.

Several well-known politicians have released statements in response to Klein receiving the Order of Canada.

“I am very pleased that such a deserving Albertan is being awarded the Order of Canada today. Premier Klein dedicated much of his life serving Albertans in both municipal and provincial government. During his time in public service he made some very challenging decisions in order to grow our economy. He also created an endearing and enduring relationship with Albertans, who affectionately refer to him as Ralph. It is wonderful to see Premier Klein honoured for his years of hard work, dedication and determination to ensure that Albertans have the best place to live. I join all Albertans in their love and admiration for Premier Klein on this special day.” – Alberta Premier Alison Redford

“As an Albertan, I am pleased that former Alberta Premier Ralph Klein has been awarded the Order of Canada today. His legacy is one of fiscal conservatism at a time when Alberta’s economy needed it most,” said Minister Ambrose. “He made tough, controversial decisions that were eventually embraced by Albertans as common sense. Ralph Klein leaves a legacy of balanced budgets, debt reduction and austerity measures that will live on as a benchmark for present and future Alberta governments.” – Status of Women Minister Rona Ambrose.