Billionaire businessman Arthur Irving Passes away at 93

Arthur Irving, the prominent New Brunswick billionaire known for his leadership of Canada’s largest oil refinery, Irving Oil, has passed away at the age of 93.

Irving’s death was confirmed by the company in a statement released on Monday, May 13, 2024. He was surrounded by his wife and daughter at the time of his passing.

Throughout his tenure, Irving made significant contributions to the energy sector and became renowned for his dedication to customer service, often conducting unannounced visits to Irving gas station facilities to ensure cleanliness.

As the middle son of K.C. Irving, Arthur played a pivotal role in expanding the family’s business empire, which began with a single gas station, sawmill, and general store. Under his leadership, Irving Oil flourished, with the Saint John refinery becoming a cornerstone of the company’s operations.

In a rare interview with CBC New Brunswick in 1998, Irving underscored his commitment to excellence and community development, emphasizing the importance of pride among employees and continuous improvement.

The Arthur Irving Family Trust assumed full ownership of Irving Oil in 2018, solidifying the family’s legacy in the energy industry. Forbes Magazine recognized Irving’s substantial wealth, estimating it at $6.4 billion US as of May 6, 2024, making him one of Canada’s wealthiest individuals.

Irving is survived by his second wife, Sandra, his children Jennifer, Kenneth, Arthur, Emily, and Sarah, as well as his older brother J.K. Irving, 96. His younger brother Jack passed away in 2010.

John, the son of Jack Irving, issued a statement honoring his uncle’s memory and expressing condolences to Irving’s family. “I join with my family and all our employees in expressing our deepest condolences to his wife, Sandra, and his children, and their families,” he said in a statement.

In response to Irving’s passing, Saint John Mayor Donna Reardon paid tribute to his lasting impact on the city. “His legacy in Saint John is immeasurable, and his contributions will forever be felt,” she said.