Celebrating the Career of Ron Odynski, K.C.
After five decades in the legal profession, Ogilvie LLP is proud to recognize the retirement of Ronald W. Odynski, K.C. (Ron). Ron’s career has been defined by dedication to his clients, a deep commitment to the community, and a lasting impact on the firm.
Ron was called to the bar in 1975 and began his career at Ogilvie LLP that same year, marking the start of a distinguished tenure that would span decades. From the outset, he built a reputation for thoughtful counsel, strong advocacy, and an unwavering work ethic. His contributions, both as a lawyer and in firm leadership, have helped shape both Ogilvie and the broader legal landscape in Alberta. One of Ron’s primary practice areas included airport/aviation law and he was instrumental in developing and modernizing aviation laws in Alberta, including the creation of the Regional Airport Authorities Act (Alberta), and nationally, serving as the Chair of the National Airport Lawyers’ Group for many years.
In 1990, Ron was appointed Queen’s Counsel (now King’s Counsel), a well-deserved recognition of his professional excellence, integrity, and leadership within the legal community. This honour reflected not only his legal expertise but also the respect he earned from colleagues and clients alike.
Over the course of his career, Ron played an integral role in building Ogilvie into the firm it is today, leaving a lasting imprint on its growth, reputation, and values. Ron was involved in firm management for the majority of his time at Ogilvie, serving as the firm’s Managing Partner and Managing Chair for over three decades. Ron was also very active in the community throughout his career and volunteered his time to many charitable organizations, including as Chair of the Edmonton Community Foundation, President of the United Way Capital Region, Member of the University of Alberta Senate, Member of the Winspear Foundation, and Director of the Alberta Ballet Company, to name only a few.
His sense of civic service, including taking part in philanthropy, educational programs, sports and the arts, continued the legacy of the firm’s founder, James H. Ogilvie, and his vison of community involvement as a major part of the firm’s culture. “Ron was the face of Ogilvie, internally, in Edmonton’s legal community and in the community at large, for so many years. Ogilvie’s lawyers and staff, past and present, consider ourselves extremely fortunate to have had such an amazing leader and lawyer as a part of Ogilvie for five decades”, said Trevor Reddekopp, Ogilvie’s current Managing Partner.
Throughout his time at Ogilvie, Ron has played a significant role as a mentor and leader. He has guided generations of lawyers, sharing his knowledge and experience with generosity and patience. His influence can be seen in the many lawyers who have benefited from his mentorship and continue to carry forward his commitment to excellence.
While Ron’s retirement marks the end of an extraordinary chapter, his legacy at Ogilvie will endure. His influence is woven into the fabric of the firm, and his contributions will continue to be felt for years to come. We are grateful for his many years of service and the lasting contributions he has made to the firm and the profession.
On behalf of everyone at Ogilvie, we thank Ron for his remarkable career and wish him all the best in his retirement.