The former president and chief executive officer of Suncor Energy has died at the age of 67.
In a news release, the company says Rick George passed away Tuesday in Calgary as a result of complications from acute myeloid leukemia.
Suncor's current President and CEO Steve Williams described George's impact on the oil sands industry and Canadian business community as immeasurable.
"His contributions have been significant and far-reaching," says Williams. "We were saddened to hear the news of his passing and extend our sincerest condolences to his family at this difficult time. Rick was very much admired and loved by his Suncor family."
Williams says George joined Suncor in 1991 as chief executive officer and helped transform the company over his 21 years at the helm from an oil sands pioneer to the country's largest integrated energy company.
His accomplishments and contributions were recognized through a series of other awards over the years, including: Outstanding CEO of the Year and Canadian Energy Person of the Year and being inducted into the Canadian Petroleum Hall of Fame.
George was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2007 in recognition of his commitment to the natural resources sector, aboriginal communities and sustainable development.
He retired from the company in 2012.
