Here is an example that sticks out: the richest man in Canada, the 9th richest in the world, was known for being shy, benevolent and the atypical rich guy.

Ken Thomson, 2nd Baron of Fleet, died on June 12 in his office in Toronto, age 82. His fortune is estimated at $19.6 billion (US). The son of a rich man, he was an art collector (donated most of it to the Art Gallery), a philanthropist, and an overall nice guy.

He was with the Galt Reporter (later Cambridge Reporter), owned by his father Roy Thomson as part fo the newspaper empier he build.

Some of those who worked with him there remember him as a salesman, then manager of the paper. He "showed none of the pomposity or aloofness that might be expected of the boss' son", let alone a billionaire. "He was just one of the boys. He didn't put on any airs". Even when he was the general manager, he "just fitted in, and did a good job". Also a "very friendly guy and very shy".

His upbringing during the depression era is the cause of his frugality. He would buy only two eggs, and not a dozen like everyone else while living on Chalmers St.

Money did not spoil this man. Good going Ken.

Makes one still have hope for humanity.

Links

• Toronto Star.
• Globe and Mail.
• Obituary in the Times Online (London).
• Canadian Press article.