It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Vic Pakalnis, a distinguished member of the Radiation Safety Institute of Canada Board of Directors since 1991. Vic’s contributions to the Institute and his lifelong commitment to advancing health and safety in Canada will remain an enduring source of inspiration.
Vic Pakalnis brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Institute, enriched by a career spanning five decades across the mining industry, government, and academia. His tenure on the Institute’s Board of Directors reflected his passion for safety, a value he championed tirelessly. His leadership and expertise were instrumental in shaping our policies and programs, ensuring they met the highest standards of safety and integrity.
Vic’s illustrious career began in mining engineering, with degrees from McGill University and later an MBA from Queen’s University. His professional journey included pivotal roles in provincial government, where he served as Chief Mining Engineer, Provincial Director of Mining, and Director of Industrial Health & Safety. In these roles, he was a steadfast advocate for worker safety and health, influencing policies and practices that continue to protect countless individuals.
Beyond his public service, Vic’s academic contributions left an indelible mark. As Kinross Professor in Mining and Sustainability at Queen’s University, he spearheaded initiatives like the Queen’s Aboriginal Access to Engineering Program and championed applied sustainability research. His leadership extended to MIRARCO Mining Innovation and Laurentian University, where he drove innovative solutions to complex challenges in mining and safety.
Vic’s influence extended far beyond his professional achievements. He shared his insights on health and safety issues through media platforms such as CNN and CBC, highlighting his commitment to fostering a culture of safety worldwide.
The Radiation Safety Institute of Canada was privileged to benefit from Vic’s wisdom, vision, and unwavering dedication to protecting lives. His legacy will live on in the policies he helped shape, the people he inspired, and the countless lives made safer by his efforts.
We extend our deepest condolences to Vic’s family, friends, and colleagues. While he is no longer with us, his contributions to safety and innovation will be remembered and will continue to drive our safety mission.
