“Today, we mourn the sudden and devastating passing of Saskatoon Meewasin MLA Roger Parent.
“First elected in 2011, Roger was re-elected in 2016 but, more than a Member of the Legislative Assembly, Roger was a beloved family man and a devoted member of his community.
“Prior to entering politics, Roger was a business consultant working with a variety of organizations and performed the vital task of developing indigenous businesses around the province.
“Roger was also active in numerous commendable community initiatives and organizations, including the Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority’s Aboriginal Economic Development Committee, the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, the Metis Nation—Saskatchewan, the Saskatchewan committee on aboriginal procurement, and the Saskatoon Homelessness Initiative Partnership.
“On behalf of the Official Opposition and all Saskatchewan New Democrats, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to Roger’s wife Sheila and their family for this tremendous loss.
“I’d also like to take a moment to extend my thoughts and sympathies to the Saskatchewan Party caucus and staff for their loss of a valuable friend and colleague.
“Finally, some thoughts for all those who are hurting today because they have been reminded of a loss of their own. Cancer has touched us all. As we remember and honour Roger, let us also think of all those who have fought and those who are still fighting this horrible disease as well as those who have felt this terrible loss.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.”