Canad Inns hotels founder Ledohowski dies
Bram Strain, chief executive officer of the Business Council of Manitoba, made the announcement in a mass email late Tuesday morning, calling Ledohowski 'a pillar of leadership and service.'
'Leo was a visionary entrepreneur who transformed the hospitality experience in Manitoba. Under his leadership, Canad Inns evolved into the province's largest hotel chain,' the email states.
WAYNE GLOWACKI / FREE PRESS FILES
Canad Inns founder and chairman Leo Ledohowski, seen here at the opening gala of the Metropolitan Entertainment Centre in November 2012, has died.
'Leo's contributions extended far beyond business. He was a passionate advocate for community development, serving on the boards of the Bank of Canada and the Business Development Bank of Canada, and receiving numerous accolades, including the Order of Manitoba and the Distinguished Service Award from the University of Manitoba.'
Ledohowski, who was in his early 80s when he died, served on the board of the Manitoba Hotel Association for more than 25 years and on the board of the Hotel Association of Canada for 20 years. He is a former director of the Business Council of Manitoba's board and served as honorary consul of Ukraine to Manitoba.
'He valued the opportunity to collaborate with fellow leaders and was proud to contribute to the province's economic and social well-being,' the email states.
'Leo's legacy is one of bold vision, tireless dedication and heartfelt generosity. He leaves behind a lasting imprint on our city and province, and we honour his memory by continuing the work he so passionately championed.
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Canad Inns owns and operates nine hotels in Manitoba — seven in Winnipeg, one in Portage la Prairie and one in Brandon — and one in Grand Forks, N.D. Canad Inns also owns and operates other businesses, including the Radisson hotel and Metropolitan Entertainment Centre downtown, and nine Tavern United restaurants and bars.
fpcity@freepress.mb.ca
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