August 14, 2020
On Sunday, August 9, the Canadian automotive retail industry lost a well-respected member when Calgary dealer Edward "Ted" John Cuthbert Valentine passed away. He was 90 years old.
A former Chairman of the Federation of Automobile Dealers Association of Canada (FADA), which became CADA in the early 1990’s, Valentine joined his family business Halford & Valentine after graduating from the University of British Columbia with a Bachelor of Commerce degree. Over time, he helped Valentine Volvo become the largest and most successful Volvo dealership in the country.
"The Canadian automotive industry has lost a true veteran — one that was ever-present and deeply involved, having been part of CADA, the Motor Dealers’ Association of Alberta, and the Calgary Motor Dealers’ Association, to name a few," said Tim Reuss, President and CEO at CADA. "Our sincere condolences to his family; he will be greatly missed."
According to his obituary, Valentine’s motto was to ensure every deal was "fair to all concerned." He was also said to visit the dealership often even after "retirement", to mentor his son Paul and offer witty remarks to employees and customers.
Volunteerism also played a major role in his life, from opening his home to dozens of house guests throughout the years to delivering meals to the infirmed, serving meals to the hungry, and travelling to India to immunize against Polio, among other things.
Valentine is also a recipient of many awards, including Alberta’s Time Quality Dealer of the Year and the City of Calgary’s Grant MacEwan Lifetime Achievement Award. "Valentine’s kindness and volunteerism was a remarkable and inspiring example of a dealer giving back to their community and beyond," said Reuss.