With more than a decade and a half at Porter Ramsay LLP, Don helps clients navigate Real Estate, Mortgages, Wills and Estates, Company and Commercial matters with steady, practical counsel.
He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Alberta in 1994, following a Master of Arts from the University of Manitoba in 1984, a Bachelor of Commerce Honours in 1977, and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Winnipeg in 1974. Additional credentials include a Diploma in Theology and industry courses in Canadian securities, registered options, and investment funds, giving him a firm footing in both ethics and finance.
Don’s career path is as diverse as it is grounded. He began as a minister and chaplain at the University of Manitoba, moved into investment management with Scotia McLeod and Dominion Securities, then articled with Thomas MacDonald Butler before practicing there and later with Wilkinson and Company. Since 2010 he has been a partner at Porter Ramsay LLP, where clients appreciate his calm judgment and broad perspective.
Committed to service, Don has sat on the Board of Governors and the Senate of Summit Pacific College, and has been active with the Canadian Bar Association and Christian Legal Fellowship. He has coached little league baseball and remained involved in church leadership.
Away from the office, Don enjoys reading, walking, exploring the intersection of science and religion, engaging in philosophical and theological discussions, watching thought provoking films, spending time with his children and grandchildren, and travelling.
Education
Juris Doctor,
University of Alberta, 1994
Master of Arts,
University of Manitoba, 1984
Bachelor of Commerce Honours,
University of Manitoba, 1977
Bachelor of Arts,
Student of Distinction, University of Winnipeg, 1974
Career
2010 to present: Partner,
Porter Ramsay LLP
1998 to 2010: Lawyer,
Wilkinson & Company
1995 to 1998: Lawyer,
Thomas MacDonald Butler
1987 to 1990: Investment Management,
Scotia McLeod Inc. and Dominion Securities Inc.
1981 to 1986: Minister and Chaplain,
University of Manitoba