J.K. Irving, chairman of J.D. Irving Ltd., has passed away at the age of 96, according to a news release from the company Friday evening.
James K. Irving died peacefully Friday in Saint John, the release said.
He was the son of Irving patriarch K.C. Irving, who died in 1992, the industrialist who turned a single gas station and sawmill into a family-controlled business conglomerate, making him and his three sons among Canada’s wealthiest businessmen.
That business, based in Saint John, includes forestry, energy, agriculture, transportation, retail, food, construction and shipbuilding, its website says. It was founded in 1882 and operates in Canada and the United States.
Forestry and paper operations overseen by J.D. Irving are New Brunswick’s largest private-sector employer.
J..K. Irving’s death marks the last of a generation of Irving brothers who split their father’s company into three.
His brother Arthur died in May at age 93 and had been chairman emeritus of Irving Oil. Their brother Jack Irving died in 2010.
He is predeceased by his wife, Jean Irving, and is survived by four children, Jim, Robert, Mary-Jean and Judith, 14 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
“I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Irving family on the passing of James K. Irving,” Saint John Mayor Donna Reardon posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“Throughout his life, J.K. made substantial contributions to the City of Saint John. His efforts touched many lives, from his leadership in the business community to his environmental initiatives and dedication to youth.”
She also highlighted his contribution to the Partners Assisting Local Schools program in Saint John, which aims to reduce child poverty.
Don Darling, former mayor of Saint John, said on X, “Few words can capture the immense contribution his family has made.”
