Vancouver philanthropist Joe Segal dead at age 97

Vancouver philanthropist and billionaire Joe Segal has died at the age of 97.

Segal was born in Vegreville, Alberta. He served in World War II and then settled in Vancouver, founding Fields Stores. He later bought Zellers, and eventually acquired a stake in the Hudson’s Bay Company.

He also developed real estate in B.C., forming Kingswood Capital Corporation.

Segal is a recipient of both the Order of Canada and Order of British Columbia.

Simon Fraser University shared a tribute to Segal, who was a long standing board member and chancellor emeritus.

“Joe spent considerable time sharing his wisdom and expertise with everyone from small business owners to influential CEOs, all of whom prized his mentorship. In 1981, he brought his energy and unique perspective to SFU, where he served on the board of governors for more than 12 years and as chancellor from 1993 to 1999. His leadership and contributions to SFU were pivotal to its growth as a major research university and its connections to the communities it serves. He spearheaded the establishment of SFU’s Vancouver campus at Harbour Centre as well as the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue, and generously donated the former Bank of Montreal heritage building to house SFU’s Segal Graduate School of Business.”

Segal dedicated time to several charitable causes such as BC Children’s Hospital and the Variety Club.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver remembers Segal as a “titan in the business and philanthropic worlds” and a “genuinely caring and compassionate person — a true mensch.”

Joe z"l was a steadfast supporter of countless worthy causes both within and beyond our Jewish community, including the work of our Federation and our partners. We are deeply grateful to him for his incredible generosity over the decades. 2/3

— Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver (@JewishVancouver) May 31, 2022

Segal leaves behind his wife, Rosalie, and a large family of many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.