Saskatchewan mourns loss of Dr. Michael Jackson

Provincial officials across Saskatchewan are mourning the loss of Dr. Michael Jackson.

It was announced Wednesday evening that the former man in charge of organizing royal visits to the province had passed away at the age of 82.

Sad news. The Rev Canon Deacon Michael Jackson has died. In addition to his devotion to the Anglican Church, Michael was also one of Canada’s best protocol officers & a leading expert on the role, history & value of the Monarchy in Cdn governance. Love to his Family. May he RIP. pic.twitter.com/mNx7lOJ3We

— Ralph Goodale (@RalphGoodale) November 23, 2022

Jackson served as Saskatchewan’s chief of protocol for more than three decades before retiring from the position in 2005.

He was the point of contact for 10 members of the Royal Family, including visits by Queen Elizabeth II in 1978, 1987 and 2005.

Tributes from politicians and public figures poured out online following news of his death, including Jason Quilliam, who stepped into Jackson’s role in 2012.

We lost a giant in the Protocol world last night when my good friend and mentor Dr. D. Michael Jackson, CVO, SOM, CD, died last night at the Regina General Hospital after a short illness. /1 pic.twitter.com/8xTnjof2XD

— Jason Quilliam 🇨🇦⚔️ (@jtquilliam) November 23, 2022

Large loss for our community. We will miss his leadership, positive attitude and truly collaborative nature! Thoughts are with his family at this time.

— Chief Evan Bray (@evanjbray) November 23, 2022

A remarkable individual whose passion for dedication to his vocation, avocation, and to his province and country were manifest.

— Brad Wall (@BradWall306) November 23, 2022