Gary Perron

Gary Perron was born in the prairie province of Saskatchewan, where his early years were influenced by the open landscape and a community that valued honesty, effort, and compassion. When his family later moved to Winnipeg, those values continued to guide him and helped shape the direction of his life. More than forty years ago, he settled in Calgary, where he and his family built a life deeply rooted in Alberta’s culture and natural beauty. For him, Calgary offered the ideal mix of opportunity and connection—a place where hard work, family, and community all come together. Over the years, he has come to appreciate the city’s spirit, its welcoming nature, and its balance between urban living and the outdoors.

Family has always been central to his life. He finds his greatest fulfillment in time spent with his children and grandchildren, particularly during summers at the family lake house. The lake house is more than a destination—it is a gathering place filled with memories, laughter, and traditions passed from one generation to the next. Those warm months bring the family together for simple pleasures, such as swimming, fishing, or sitting by the water, sharing stories. These gatherings represent a rhythm of togetherness that he treasures deeply. Whether showing a grandchild how to skip stones, organizing family games, or watching the sunrise from the dock, he finds meaning in each shared experience. The lake house has become a sanctuary from the busy world, a place where conversation replaces screens and time moves more slowly, reminding everyone of what truly matters.

He has always found inspiration and energy in the outdoors. Golf has long been one of his favorite pursuits, offering a mix of focus, challenge, and camaraderie. The sport allows him to connect with friends while enjoying the beautiful landscapes Alberta has to offer. Cycling is another passion that combines his appreciation for fitness and exploration. From peaceful rides along city trails to more demanding routes through Alberta’s countryside, he values the clarity and balance that cycling brings. These activities reflect his steady commitment to staying active and engaged with nature.

Travel has also played a meaningful role in his life, offering opportunities to explore new places and learn from different cultures. He approaches travel with curiosity and respect, preferring to spend time truly experiencing each location rather than rushing through. These journeys have given him a greater sense of perspective and have deepened his gratitude for home. The experiences abroad have strengthened his connection to Calgary and his recognition of what makes the city and its people so special.

In 2009, he founded the Norrep Foundation, a private charitable organization dedicated to supporting and strengthening the Calgary community. Over the past fifteen years, the foundation has donated more than $5 million to registered charities, with a focus on education, community development, and assistance for those in need. His approach to philanthropy reflects humility and sincerity, guided by a belief that generosity should be about making a difference rather than seeking recognition. The foundation’s work stands as an extension of his lifelong commitment to giving back and supporting the place he calls home.

Through the years, he has remained grounded in the values that shaped his beginnings in Saskatchewan and guided him throughout his life in Alberta. Whether spending time with loved ones, enjoying outdoor pursuits, traveling thoughtfully, or supporting local causes, he approaches everything with a sense of purpose and gratitude. Gary Perron continues to live by the principles of family, integrity, and community, finding meaning in the simple joys and lasting connections that define a life well-lived