I was born in Regina in 1949, the son of Alex and Pauline Hill, and grew up with my sister, Patricia. My parents’ stories shaped much of who I am, teaching me resilience, kindness, and the value of giving back.

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My father, Alex, was born in Northern Ireland in 1908. After a quarrel with his family, he left home and boarded a ship bound for Boston. Fate had other plans—the boat was caught in a storm and ended up on the St. Lawrence Seaway, landing in Canada by accident. He eventually made his way to Moosomin, Saskatchewan, where he worked on his uncle’s farm until the Depression hit. When times became difficult, he joined the Regina Police Force and served for 25 years. My father was both strong and disciplined. He won the Canadian Wrestling Championship and qualified for the 1936 Olympics, though he couldn't afford to attend. When he retired, I was still a young boy, and he became a stay-at-home father. His quiet strength and sense of integrity were lessons that stayed with me all my life.

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My mother, Pauline, was born in Edmonton in 1920. In the 1950s, she became a Welcome Wagon Hostess and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1959, our family moved to Winnipeg, where she became the Western Canadian Vice President of the company. Eight years later, in 1967, her promotion to President of Welcome Wagon Canada took us to Toronto. She eventually purchased the company in 1979. My mother was also the first female President of the Better Business Bureau of Canada. She was deeply involved in many philanthropic organizations. Despite all her responsibilities, she never missed one of my games. She believed that if you were fortunate in life, you had a duty to give back, and I’ve carried that belief with me ever since.

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I spent my early years in Regina, attending Argyle School, before moving to Winnipeg, where I attended Churchill High School. I was briefly a Boy Scout and later served as President of the student council. Sports have always been a big part of my life—baseball, football, basketball, golf, and especially hockey. I eventually played NCAA Division 1 hockey while earning my bachelor’s degree at Dartmouth College.

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In 1975, I married Kathleen Wren at St. Paul the Apostle Church. We met at a law school party, and to this day, I consider her the most intelligent person I’ve ever met. Kathleen worked as a doctor until deciding to dedicate more time to raising our children, David and Deborah, who are now doctors in Winnipeg. She’s an avid reader and an incredible partner. Together we’re blessed with four grandchildren—Alex, Matthew, Joanna, and Astrid—each of whom brings us great pride and joy.

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After finishing at Dartmouth, I hoped to stay in the United States to coach hockey and golf at Exeter Academy. Still, I couldn’t obtain a visa after the Vietnam War ended. I returned to Winnipeg, where someone suggested law school. I enrolled at the University of Manitoba, dropped out in my first year, returned a few months later and completed my degree. I joined Aikins Law Firm, where several Jewish commercial lawyers took me under their wing. Their mentorship and trust shaped my career. After 14 years, I started my own firm, Hill and Walsh, where I continue to practice litigation.

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Throughout my professional life, I have been deeply connected with Winnipeg’s Jewish community. Many of my colleagues, mentors, and clients are Jewish, and I’ve always admired the strength and perseverance of the Jewish people throughout history. Those relationships—and my mother’s example of generosity—led me to become involved with the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba.

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Beyond my law practice, I’ve tried to give back to the broader community. I’ve served on the Board of Directors for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, volunteered with the Heart & Stroke Association, and mentored young lawyers through the Law Society of Manitoba.

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I hope to be remembered simply as a nice person. I was raised to believe that if you treat people kindly, they'll return that kindness. I’m proud of my family, grateful for my opportunities, and hopeful that everyone—regardless of religion or background—will continue to treat one another with respect, compassion, and understanding.

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