John was an early founding member of BOYNECLARKE. He spent nine years as BOYNECLARKE’s managing partner and practiced at the firm for more than 40 years. He retired as Counsel in 2019.
John’s long career spanned work on behalf of a wide variety of businesses, government agencies, institutions and not-for-profit organizations. He spent his early career as the executive assistant to Deputy Prime Minister Allan MacEachen. While in his legal practice, he remained well connected in politics, serving as president of the Nova Scotia Liberal Party.
John also held leadership positions in the Nova Scotia Barristers’ Society, Canadian Forces Liaison Council, Royal Nova Scotia Tattoo Society, Spring Garden Area Business Association, Nova Scotia Health Authority, and St. Andrew’s United Church, among many others. He was highly respected for his intelligence and hard work.
At BOYNECLARKE, John provided a broad range of legal expertise as partner, managing partner and counsel. He was highly regarded as a corporate lawyer and his success was due to his commitment to finding solutions for his clients. On his work, John noted: “The client expects and deserves your best – nothing less is acceptable.”
Among John’s many awards, honours and recognitions are:
- Inclusion in The Best Lawyers in Canada published by Best Lawyers® (2006-2020)
- Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2013)
- Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal (1988)
- Honorary Lieutenant – Colonel of The Halifax Rifles (RCAC)
- Honourary Trustee – QEII Health Sciences Centre Charitable Foundation
John his wife, Carol, were always incredibly philanthropic and generously supported numerous charities through their lives, especially the IWK Hospital.
BOYNECLARKE and our team wish to express our deep gratitude to John Young for his years of service to his work and community and our heartfelt condolences to Carol and to John’s family and friends. A celebration of John’s life will be arranged at a later date.