Louis Lawrence Odette

Businessman, philanthropist

Often referred to as “Bud”, Louis Odette truly was a friend to many in his community. He was not only a respected and successful businessman, but a generous benefactor to numerous causes. Having served with the Canadian Forces, Louis returned home and established Eastern Construction Limited in 1951. Working closely with his brother Edmond (Ed), he worked for more than 50 years to make his business an industry leader. The CBC Broadcasting Centre in Toronto is just one example of esteemed projects worked on by Eastman Construction.

A great admirer of the arts, Louis provided support to numerous artists, which in turn led to such creations as the Odette Sculpture Park in Windsor and the Toronto Sculpture Garden. He also directed his philanthropic endeavours to education. Louis and his brother Ed were honoured for their efforts by the University of Windsor’s Faculty of Business, which named a key location the Odette Building in 1991, and in 2000 the faculty itself became The Louis and Edmund Odette School of Business. His legacy continues today in the form of scholarships, supporting the business leaders of tomorrow.

In 1997 Louis was honoured with the Order of Canada, adding to the honorary Doctor of Laws given to him by the University of Windsor, and a Knighthood awarded him in the Order of Malta. Louis passed away on May 18, 2011, but his many contributions to his community continue to show a positive impact. The school that bears his name had this to say in his memory: “We will continue to benefit from the contagion of Bud’s enthusiasm as we build the next decades of the Odette School’s legacy”.

Sources:

“Louis Lawrence Odette.” The Toronto Star. May 20, 2011. Accessed December 7, 2015.

“Mr. Louis Lawrence Odette, C.M.” St. Michael’s College School. Accessed December 7, 2015.

“School Mourns Loss of Great Canadian.” University of Windsor. Accessed December 7, 2015.

“U of Windsor Benefactor Dies.” Windsor Square. June 4, 2011. Accessed December 14, 2015.