Officer of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: November 16, 2021
• Invested on: December 14, 2022

The Honourable David Ross Fitzpatrick, O.C., O.B.C.
Kelowna, British Columbia

Ross Fitzpatrick has left an indelible mark on the Okanagan Valley. Founder of his family's estate winery, he pioneered the movement of sustainable green development and championed innovative operating practices in the industry. He is also an esteemed senator and a powerful advocate for Indigenous economic independence in the region, noted for his commanding negotiations of the Westbank First Nation Self-Government Agreement. Additionally, his deep commitment to conservation secured the protective rights of sacred Indigenous land, including Spotted Lake and in the South Okanagan-Similkameen area.