It is with deep sadness that Langlois announces the passing of its esteemed partner, William “Bill” D. Hart, who passed away peacefully on June 29, 2024.
“Bill was a man of deep compassion and remarkable kindness. He was a true gentleman. He left a lasting impression, with his kindness, altruism, as well as his gentle and reassuring presence. Known not only for this exemplary professionalism, but also for his unwavering commitment to our firm, he was an inspiration to all of us. We are saying goodbye not only to a partner and colleague, but also to an outstanding human being who will be sorely missed,” shared Jean-François Gagnon, CEO of Langlois.
A native of Saskatchewan, Bill studied economics and management at the École Supérieure des Sciences Économiques et Commerciales (ESSEC) in France before pursuing a law degree. After being called to the Québec Bar in 1979, he worked in the Montréal office of a major international law firm. In 1983, he joined the Steinberg Supermarket group, where he served for more than 10 years as Senior Vice President, Legal Affairs. He remained with Steinberg throughout its bankruptcy and oversaw the sale of its various divisions and assets. He had the opportunity to work closely with Steinberg's external legal counsel, Raynold Langlois, who at the time was a key partner at Langlois Robert, today Langlois Lawyers.
Invited by Raynold to join Langlois Robert in 1993, Bill began practising corporate and commercial law. Passionate about France and its culture, he began to develop an extensive network of contacts there. He founded and co-chaired the firm's France-Québec practice group, which for over 30 years has assisted a wide range of French companies in establishing operations in Québec. With his extensive expertise in mergers and acquisitions, Bill was called upon to advise his European clients at every stage of their transactions. His frequent presence in France, combined with his active involvement in various local French business circles, enabled him to provide valuable advice to French and European companies on transatlantic investments, and he also gave several conferences on the subject. Bill went on to become the only person from Saskatchewan to be elected President of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Canada (CCIFC) since it was founded in 1886. He later received the honour of being appointed to the influential Steering Committee of the UCCIFE (now CCI France International).
Bill is survived by his wife, Catherine, his children, his family, and numerous friends, colleagues, and collaborators.
On behalf of everyone at Langlois, we extend our heartfelt condolences to all who knew him.
About the memorial ceremony
Monday, July 8, 2024
Mount Royal Commemorative Services
1297, chemin de la Forêt, Outremont, QC H2V 2P9
Condolences will be received by the family beginning at 10 a.m., a funeral service will follow at 11 a.m