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John Limeburner (1947 – 2024): Dedicated alumnus, donor and volunteer

‘His leadership and mentorship are irreplaceable’
October 4, 2024
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By Ian Harrison, BComm 01


A row of people sit behind a long table with another row of people standing behind them John Limeburner (front row, second from right) pictured with the Concordia University Alumni Association in 2015.

John Limeburner, BComm 68, a dedicated Concordia advisor, donor and volunteer, passed away on September 6 at the age of 77.

Limeburner earned his undergraduate business degree from Loyola College, one of Concordia’s two founding institutions, in 1968.

He then spent two years in New Zealand and Australia before continuing his education, earning an MBA from Queen’s University in 1974, and completing McGill University’s Faculty of Law National Program in 1985.

As a student at Loyola, Limeburner was an accomplished varsity golfer, a passion he would carry throughout his life. His love for the sport led him to volunteer with the Quebec Golf Association (now Golf Québec) and the Royal Canadian Golf Association (RCGA), where he played a significant leadership role within the RCGA Foundation.

Limeburner maintained a strong connection to Concordia over the decades. He held several leadership roles within the Concordia University Alumni Association (CUAA), including serving as president of the Loyola Alumni Founding Chapter and chairing the Loyola Campus Centennial Advisory Committee. He also chaired the Loyola Medal committees, overseeing the awarding of medals to distinguished individuals including James Orbinski, Samantha Nutt and the Honourable Murray Sinclair.

 

A man with white hair, beard and glasses poses with a large white frame that says "Concordia Alumni" Limeburner earned his undergraduate business degree from Loyola College, one of Concordia’s two founding institutions, in 1968.

His efforts were instrumental in preserving Loyola’s legacy and celebrating its rich history as part of Concordia’s identity. He also regularly advised Concordia’s administration, working closely with the vice-principals of Administration and Finance as well as University Advancement.

“What I admired most in John was that he was someone you could have a discussion with,” says Leisha Le Couvie, senior director of Alumni Engagement. “Even when we were on opposing sides, our debates were always respectful.

“His deep involvement in Concordia’s alumni activities shows how much he cared about this university. His leadership and mentorship are irreplaceable.”

Adds Kim Fuller, BA 96, president of the CUAA from 2015 to 2020:

“John was a dedicated volunteer who never hesitated to speak his mind. He was someone I always admired and looked up to as I learned the ropes, and he always offered solid advice. He attended as many alumni events as he could and was great fun to spend time with. He will always hold a special place in my heart.”

Limeburner’s commitment to service extended far beyond Concordia. He was the chairman of the McGill University Foundation and was appointed treasurer at McGill in 1995. Business Insider would later name Limeburner as one of the best college endowment managers among funds worth more than $500 million.

Three men in suits and ties pose for a celebratory photo; the one in the middle has a medal around his neck In 2017, Limeburger presented James Orbinski (centre) the Loyola Medal with former Concordia President Alan Shepard.

An avid gardener and nature lover, Limeburner contributed to charitable organizations such as Fondation Mères avec pouvoir and the Cornwall Heart and Stroke Foundation.

His volunteerism also included his religious community at St. Ignatius of Loyola parish in Montreal.

“John’s passion for Concordia and his dedication to volunteerism were remarkable,” says Nura Jabagi, MBA 14, PhD 21, the current president of the CUAA. “His work in bringing alumni together and building a strong community has left an indelible impact.”

Limeburner is survived by his wife of 33 years, Cynthia, his children Chip, BFA 23, and Peter, and his sisters Jane and Mary. His lifelong commitment to service, both at Concordia and in the broader community, will continue to inspire all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at St. Ignatius of Loyola Parish on Saturday, October 5, at 10:30 a.m. Visitation with the family starts at 9:30 a.m. Reception to follow in the church hall. 



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