BY SHONDELL SABAD, SENIOR STRATEGIC ADVISOR AT THE ALBERTA ENTERPRISE GROUP

Lou MacEachern: A True Model of Alberta’s Entrepreneurial Spirit

At Alberta Enterprise Group, we often talk about the values of hard work, innovation, and giving back. Lou MacEachern, although not a member of AEG, epitomized these principles in a way that aligns perfectly with our mission. Lou’s journey from a young man with a grade-school education to a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist is the kind of story that inspires us all.

Arriving in Calgary in 1952 from PEI, Lou travelled west looking for work and opportunity. After returning to the Maritimes to finish school and earn a commerce degree, he launched Servpro in Calgary—a cleaning business he built from the ground up into a company of 800 employees. He later founded Fortune Industries, expanded into real estate and investments, and continued showing up to his office just off Edmonton Trail well into his nineties. But what truly set Lou apart was his unwavering commitment to community, generously supporting causes from the Calgary Foundation to the Cancer Society and the Rotary Club of Calgary.

At a tribute held on March 20th, 2024, friends, family, and business associates gathered to honour Lou’s life. Lou was more than just an entrepreneur—he was a Calgary icon whose generosity and hard work left a lasting impact on the community.

If you were fortunate enough to meet Lou, you would hear words of wisdom that still ring true today. To young entrepreneurs, Lou would say, “Don’t let the bastards get you down” – a reminder to push through the tough times. And when discussing business success and giving back, he’d offer this powerful advice on charitable giving: “If you doubled that amount, you will have twice the impact.”

Lou MacEachern’s story serves as a shining example of what it means to live with integrity, work hard, and give generously. His legacy continues to inspire entrepreneurs and philanthropists across Alberta, and his life is a testament to the values that AEG stands for.

To read more about Lou’s remarkable contributions and achievements, check out these tributes:

• Lou MacEachern – Alberta Business Hall of Fame
• Obituary of Louis “Lou” MacEachern

Lou, your impact will be felt for generations to come. Thank you for showing us what it truly means to give back, work hard, and build a better community.  Here at Alberta Enterprise Group, we celebrate your life, you will be missed.