John McCallum, Veteran Liberal Cabinet Minister, Dead at 75

Photo:AP

John McCallum, a respected Canadian politician and economist, has died at age 75. He passed away peacefully on June 21, at Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga, surrounded by family.

McCallum began his public service in 2000, representing the Greater Toronto Area as a Member of Parliament. Over a 15-year career in Ottawa, he held significant roles, including Minister of National Defence, Veterans Affairs, National Revenue, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. He later served as Canada’s ambassador to China from 2017 until early 2019.

Outside politics, McCallum was a university professor and chief economist at the Royal Bank of Canada. He helped shape economic policies and guide the country through global challenges—a contribution lauded by Prime Minister Mark Carney, who called him “an inspiration, a mentor, and a friend.”

Former prime minister Justin Trudeau remembered McCallum as a supportive figure: "He helped Canada navigate some of its most challenging times," especially during the rapid resettlement of Syrian refugees in 2015. 

Known for blending good humour and grace, McCallum earned respect across parties for his thoughtful leadership. He is survived by his wife Nancy, their three sons, and six grandchildren.