[from left to right, Didi Kaneff, Kristina Kaneff, Pina D’Agostino, Dr. Ignat Kaneff, Terry Sachlos]
We are saddened to learn of the recent passing of one of Canada’s leading developers, visionaries, beloved philanthropist and dear friend of the university and law school, Dr. Ignat Kaneff . He will be fondly remembered by the Osgoode community for his support of fundraising efforts to renovate Osgoode Hall Law School’s building at York University and donating $2.5 million for the cause.
Over the many years, Dr. Kaneff helped build hospitals, schools, community centres and residential properties across Ontario. He also established the Ignat Kaneff Charitable foundation in 1986 to support education, health, the arts and social services of local communities. His real estate development legacy is matched by his generous philanthropic deeds.
Former Dean of Osgoode Hall Law School, Justice Patrick Monahan, instrumental in leading the Osgoode Building campaign, said of Dr. Kaneff, “His story is an inspiration to a lot of people. He was larger than life.”
Dr. Kaneff’s formidable legacy will endure his passing and continue to live through his family, who he cherished above all.
Our heartfelt condolences to Dr Kaneff’s wife, Didi and his two daughter’s Kristina and Anna-Maria who already lead in the business and follow in his footsteps.
Pina D’Agostino is the Founder & Director of IP Osgoode, the IP Intensive Program, and the Innovation Clinic, the Editor-in-Chief for the IPilogue and the Intellectual Property Journal, and an Associate Professor at Osgoode Hall Law School.