James Lindsay Gordon, known to all as “Lindsay,” passed away on August 26, 2024 at the age of 72. Lindsay was born on March 26, 1952 in the Shetland Islands. After a childhood and adolescence spent in Devon and Berkshire, he immigrated to Canada in 1970 to attend the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. At UBC, Lindsay fell in love with his adopted country and fellow student, Liz, whom he married shortly after earning a Bachelor of Arts (Economics) in 1973. He returned to UBC to earn a Master of Business Administration in 1976 to further his burgeoning career in finance.

Following his studies, Lindsay joined Export Development Canada in Ottawa. He worked there for 10 years in a variety of roles, becoming the youngest Vice President in the company’s history at the time. In 1987, he joined the Hongkong Bank of Canada, later known as HSBC Bank Canada, where he served in several senior positions in Vancouver and Toronto. He retired as the longest-serving CEO in HSBC Bank Canada’s history, and was greatly admired by his colleagues and customers.

Throughout his life, Lindsay believed he had a responsibility to give back to his community. In retirement, Lindsay and Liz became advocates for those who experience barriers to education and healthcare, leading them to assist in the creation of the Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Health at UBC, an institution that has benefited the lives of Indigenous students and communities.

Shortly into his retirement, Lindsay was appointed Chancellor of UBC, a position he held for six years from 2014 to 2020. Being Chancellor was an honour that Lindsay and his family were very proud of.

While Lindsay was an accomplished business and community leader, he was first and foremost a devoted family man and friend. When asked how he wanted to be remembered, he said, “as a good husband and father.” He was, and he will be forever missed by his beloved wife of 50 years, Liz; his children, Kate (Ken), Ian (Claire), Alexandra (Guillem) and Andrew; his grandchildren, Rosie, Stella, Edie, Adeline, Mia and Rafael; and his canine companion, Lulu.

Donations to the Centre for Excellence in Indigenous Health at UBC will celebrate Lindsay’s passion for advancing Indigenous people’s health through education, innovative thinking, research and traditional practice. Your gift today will pay tribute to Lindsay’s life by supporting Indigenous students and communities.