THE LAWYER YOU WANTED IN YOUR CORNER WHEN TIMES GOT TOUGH

working on a Japanese deal. “Steve was a truly remarkable man,” he said. “I soon came to know that Steve had a brilliant mind and great sense of humour, and that he was friendly, collaborative, and morally and ethically as straight as an arrow.”

Retired Manulife General Counsel JeanPaul Bisnaire, whom Sigurdson succeeded in 2014, said they worked closely together for four years. “We were like equal partners in a law firm — collegial, supportive and collaborative. We had a great time. Everyone loved and respected Steve. He was the epitome of a lawyer’s lawyer— the lawyer you wanted in your corner when times got tough.”

Sigurdson had a deft touch with people, Guest said. “I don’t think I ever saw him be anything but unfailingly nice and respectful, even to difficult people.”

One thing everyone remembers most was Sigurdson’s commitment to family, which includes four daughters, two of whom are in the legal business, and his wife, Leslie, also a lawyer.

Laura Sigurdson, an associate at Torys LLP, said her dad “loved life more than anything. He was always so positive and good to everyone.” She hears about it all the time from strangers who, when they learn her last name, immediately regale her with stories about her dad’s kindness.

“To me and our four daughters,” said Leslie as she accepted the award on her husband’s behalf, “he was just a lovable, loving, kind, clever, thoughtful, fun and sometimes goofy person. He was also the best husband and father imaginable, and that was his other lifetime achievement.”

Indeed, despite his work load, Sigurdson always made time for family.

“As hard as he worked, Steve was never more excited than when it was time to head home to see his family, whom he clearly loved. Steve’s passing has left a big hole in the lives of many people, and we all miss him dearly,” Guloien said. Stephen Sigurdson