Saskatchewan Polytechnic is mourning the passing of Saskatoon real estate developer and philanthropist Joseph A. Remai, who passed away on June 12 at the age of 89. His legacy will live on through the Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus.
Image credit: Saskatchewan Polytechnic
In the spring of 2024 Joe donated an extraordinary gift of $25 million to Sask Polytech, the largest in the institution's history. In recognition of this generosity, the new Saskatoon campus was named the Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus.
"On behalf of Saskatchewan Polytechnic, I would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to the Remai family and the many friends and colleagues who are mourning his loss," says Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask Polytech president and CEO.
"We are extremely grateful for Joe's transformative impact on Sask Polytech, our students and organizations throughout our province. Joe was an entrepreneur, an inspiring community builder and a real estate developer with a remarkable career. His generosity will have a lasting impact through the Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus and will benefit the lives of our students, their families and Saskatchewan communities well into the future."
Born and raised on a farm near Carrot River, Saskatchewan, Joe was one of 11 children. After completing an engineering degree, he started Remai Construction with his brother Frank and embarked on a successful construction and development career. Joe's career spanned six decades, during which he successfully built thousands of multi-residential condominium and rental units, as well as commercial and hotel properties. His companies have employed countless Sask Polytech graduates and apprentices.
Joe was known not only for his business achievements but also for his philanthropy. He established the Joseph Alfred Remai Family Foundation in 2012. He generously supported sectors like healthcare, arts and culture, cause-based social agencies and post-secondary education, all of which leave a lasting impact on communities across the province.
Sask Polytech extends its deepest gratitude to Joe for his remarkable generosity and unwavering commitment to education and community development. Joe's legacy will continue to inspire and empower generations of students to come. In recognition of Joe's enduring impact, Sask Polytech has established the Joseph A. Remai Legacy Endowment Fund, which will support students into the future.
For more information
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