Michel Proulx, one of Canada's great criminal defence advocates and appeal court judges, passed away yesterday after a long illness. He impressed and touched all who met him with his intelligence, curiosity, enthusiasm and warmth of heart. I first met Michel over 10 years ago, and he became a good friend and mentor. I will miss him dearly but can certainly say that his influence in the legal community will be felt for years to come.

For a description of Michel's life and work, and particularly his impact in the legal community, see the obituary written by Yves Boisvert that appeared this morning in La Press.