Hon. Tracy Muggli: Honourable senators, I stand today to do something I wish I had taken more time and initiative to do in person, which is to acknowledge the greatness of the Honourable Todd Lewis.
As is the case with many of us, we were just becoming familiarized with the incredible depths of his knowledge, his true Saskatchewanian sense of humour — that’s how you say it — and the remarkable size of his heart.
To be honest, Senator Lewis reminded me of my dad some 30 or 40 years ago as I grew up on the farm. He carried the same quiet presence that held such deep respect for his profession, respect for the power of the land and what it could do when cared for properly and such deep respect for his community.
Clearly, Todd knew — as we small-town Saskatchewan people do — that everyone must do their part in order for small communities to thrive, never mind exist. He just made me feel like I could be my Saskatchewan farm kid self, which is why I think so many of our conversations were really just joking around. In fact, I was reminded yesterday during the swearing-in of new senators that I had tried to convince him that there were numerous protocols that he had not been told about, but he didn’t flinch.
I came to realize early in his appointment the depth of his knowledge, and as a Saskatchewan Agriculture and Forestry Committee representative, I knew I would come to rely on him for his Saskatchewan-based knowledge and expertise. So many times, I tapped him on the shoulder, accosted him in the hallway and dominated his time while enjoying an after-session pint at D’Arcy McGee’s, which, by the way, served as the primary location for the efforts of Senator Klyne, myself and other members of the Progressive Senate Group, or PSG, in trying to convert him to join the PSG.
Of course, we made outlandish promises that we knew could not even be made, all in fun, but we always knew he was exactly where he needed to be. It was always in good humour, sometimes just to get a rise out of him, and because we truly enjoyed being with him.
Honestly, my motivation was simply to have more access to his knowledge and the non-work-related conversation. I think, because I am a Saskatchewan farm kid, in connecting with him, I could relive my farm kid childhood and bring my knowledge up to date.
A real regret: I truly wish I would have made a trip to his farm so he could have shown me proof of the depth of his topsoil. That still remains ambiguous, but I remain grateful that I had the chance to experience the depth of his kindness.
May his legacy be ours to carry as we pursue good agricultural policy, and may he look down upon us with guidance and pride. May he rest in peace. May his wife, Terry; daughter, Kim; brothers, Rod and John; and many extended family and friends find peace in memories made. Thank you.