Edward Thomas Cantell, QC (1918 – 2007) was always very proud of his West Coast roots. Born in New Westminster, BC, Mr. Cantell naturally entered UBC after graduating high school. However, the young man’s studies were interrupted by World War II, whereupon he enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force, trained as a navigator and completed numerous tours of duty over Europe. Upon his safe return, Mr. Cantell applied and was admitted into the newly created Faculty of Law at UBC. He completed his first degree in 1948 as a member of the Faculty’s first graduating class, and began practicing law in the Lower Mainland. In 1951 Mr. Cantell moved to Victoria and entered the Provincial Civil Service, first as Director of Policy and Planning, Corporate Affairs, then as Deputy Superintendent of Brokers, and finally retiring as Superintendent of Insurance and Real Estate after some 25 years of public service.
He did, however, return briefly to the Lower Mainland in 1956 to marry Elizabeth Entwhistle (1916 – 2005) in his hometown of New Westminster. Elizabeth, or “Bett” as she was known among friends and family, was born in Crosher Booth (also known as Crawshaw Booth), England. Elizabeth was a teacher who liked to sew and make dresses. Together, Tom and Bett were devoted companions and friends, spending 49 loving years together.
With Mr. Cantell’s passing at the age of 89, Allard Law lost a cherished alumnus. In his estate, Mr. Cantell left a generous gift to the Allard School of Law. A student lounge has been named in honour of Tom and Elizabeth Cantell.