Gordon Aiken

Gordon Aiken, born on September twenty-sixth, nineteen eighteen, in Ripley, Ontario, was a distinguished Canadian lawyer, judge, and politician. He graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School in nineteen forty, laying the foundation for a career that would span several decades. During World War II, Aiken served as an officer in the Royal Hamilton Light Infantry, where he demonstrated his commitment to his country while stationed in Europe.

After returning from the war, Aiken established his legal practice in Muskoka, Ontario. His judicial career began when he was appointed as a judge of the juvenile and family court, a role he held from nineteen fifty-one to nineteen fifty-six. His dedication to public service soon led him to the political arena.

In the nineteen fifty-seven federal election, Aiken was elected to the House of Commons of Canada, representing the riding of Parry Sound-Muskoka as a member of the Progressive Conservative Party. His political career was marked by five successful re-elections in nineteen fifty-eight, nineteen sixty-two, nineteen sixty-three, nineteen sixty-five, and nineteen sixty-eight. From nineteen sixty-three to nineteen seventy-two, he served as the opposition critic for environmental issues and held the position of deputy house leader from nineteen sixty-seven to nineteen seventy.

Aiken was also an accomplished author, penning the book 'The Backbencher - Trials and Tribulations of a Member of Parliament' in nineteen seventy-four, published by McClelland and Stewart Limited. Additionally, he wrote 'The Returning Officer,' a historical novel set in Muskoka, showcasing his literary talents and connection to his roots.