David Lertzman
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David Lertzman was a valued senior instructor who had worked with Haskayne since 2000, but truly he was so much more. He was our spiritual leader, our Indigenous connection and our sustainability hero. His energy made a lasting impact at the school. Since 2004, David led the wilderness retreat, a week-long leadership immersive experience in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains that has been transformational for many Haskayne School of Business students. He lovingly invested over 100 hours to convert this retreat to Zoom to provide a rich experience for students to learn how to overcome challenges, build resilience and how to embody ethical leadership. At the wilderness retreat, Lertzman focused on leadership topics in the larger context of sustainability, helping students clarify their core values, sense of purpose and call to service as leader. He was deeply committed to ii’ taa’poh’to'p, UCalgary’s Indigenous Strategy. He brought to the forefront the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s recommendations, particularly resolution 92 — the role that business has to play in healing the past. Haskayne students learned in his classroom from the survivors of the residential school system and UCalgary benefited from his close relationships with local Elders. Future Indigenous business leaders were nurtured under his watch as the UCalgary liaison for the Ch’nook Scholars program. He took his call to leadership seriously, but met the challenge with unbridled energy and positivity. His contributions to scholarship over his academic career have helped influence best practices for the ecological, social and cross-cultural performance of both industries and communities.
Condolences
Stephen Cardon
Today my heart cried as I found my last communication with you. I remember this email as I cried when I heard you moved on as I though I just spoke to you. It was hard to read at first. Yet the thank you email I sent you still holds true today; my connection with the world and love for fellow beings still grows. My journey or musha shugyo continues to bring me joy and fulfillment. I am more resilient and loving. This is because of you David. Thank you.
The LaBelles. Nicolas LaBelle
Our sincerest condolences to your family at this time. Especially to Glen and his little sister. If there is anything we can do to help please don’t be afraid to ask.
Christina Child
It is with great sadness that I heard of David’s passing. I met David as a youth at a Rediscovery camp where he left a lasting impression in my life. He was an amazing kind man, full of compassion, humor and life. My thoughts are with David’s family during this difficult time.
Irene M Herremans
I knew David through my association with him at Haskayne School of Business and the Sustainable Energy Development (SEDV) program in Ecuador and also at the University of Calgary. I always found him very inspirational. We also engaged in African drumming together at Haskayne but also at the SEDV retreat in K-country every May. I was always amazed at the diverse and varied talents that he had. I am happy that I was able to be influenced by him. I am sure his family and friends will long be inspired by him.
Victory
My deepest condolences and love to David’s family, and, what a perfect way for him to be sent into the spirit world. Bear, the brother, the protector, the strength of spirit. It says a lot about what a powerful spirit David was. I had the honor of David conducting the handfasting ceremony between my former partner and me. He did so with wisdom, strength, and grace. What a beautiful man. His memory lives, and loves on.
Hilary German
I am sending my deepest condolences to the Lertzman family. I was recently reflecting on the wonderful experience of attending a wilderness retreat led by David Lertzman during my MBA. He was one-of-a-kind and a gem of a human. Gone too soon. He will never be forgotten.
Tinuke Chineme
My family and I are so sorry for your loss. You have been and will remain in our prayers. It was a privilege for me to learn from Dr. Lertzman. He was unquestionably unique and compassionate. His love of life—and people—was evident in how he interacted with both.
Shelly Kirkland
My deepest condolences to David's family and friends. I had the great privilege of learning from David during my degree at Haskayne and went on to work with him on various programs through Haskayne Adventure Leadership. I was blessed to meet David in a point in my life where my path was uncertain. David demonstrated how important it was to follow your values and discover the path you will walk with great openness. I will always remember his ability to hold space for whoever needed it. I will carry so many fond memories of David, memories of laughter, stories told by the fire, and a deep appreciation for all things that contribute to a joyful life. Much love to the Lertzman family and those connected to David. Rest in peace, David.
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