In Memoriam: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Garth Steele

It is with heartfelt remembrance and deep appreciation that we celebrate the life and immense contribution of our dear colleague and friend, Garth Steele. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends.  

Garth’s legacy at Welch was truly remarkable. He began his journey with the Firm in 1980 as a co-op student while pursuing his Bachelor of Mathematics at the University of Waterloo. We were fortunate that he chose to forge his career path with us.   

Garth’s 40-year-plus career saw him as a trusted advisor to a wide range of personal, business, and not-for-profit clients. In addition to providing assurance and accounting services, he was an expert in the realm of commodity tax. Garth was awarded the prestigious Fellow of the Chartered Professional Accountants designation, which recognizes CPAs who have rendered exceptional service to the accounting profession and their communities. 

Garth was generous with his time, expertise and was widely known for his mentorship of staff members. He was a leader both in the Firm, and in the community, serving on the boards of numerous major charitable organizations in the city.  

Garth consistently demonstrated integrity, dedication, and excellence in all his endeavors. He was a compassionate and thoughtful individual, deeply grounded in his faith. 

Throughout his journey with ALS, Garth displayed remarkable courage by sharing his experience in his blog, Faith over Fear. His resilience inspired the The Garth Steele Faith over Fear Fund, which was created to encourage Welch partners and staff to push themselves outside of their comfort zones, to pursue goals that are meaningful to them. 

Garth’s journey also inspired the creation of Welch’s Team of Steele, which competes at the annual Ottawa Dragonboat Festival as a tribute. 

There is so much more to say about our dear friend, Garth, who will be in our hearts forever.  The legacy he leaves behind will continue to inspire, uplift, and guide us each day. 

A memorial service will be held on March 5, 2025.