David Onley, who served as lieutenant-governor of Canada for seven years, has died at the age of 72.
Sitting lieutenant-governor Elizabeth Dowdeswell issued a statement on Saturday evening announcing Onley’s death. No other details were provided.
When he was appointed in 2007, Onley became the first person with a visible disability to hold the noble position of lieutenant-governor. He used a motorized scooter after battling polio as a child. Onley advocated for accessibility during and after his term.
Onley also had a long career as a broadcaster with a focus on science and technology reporting.
He is survived by his wife, Ruth Ann, and three sons.