Calgary’s arts sector has lost one of its most enthusiastic patrons.

Dr. John Lacey, a lifelong supporter of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, Mount Royal University’s Conservatory, and Contemporary Calgary, died Sept. 9. He was 93.

Instantly recognizable at events by his bright red corduroy pants, Lacy was remembered Friday night at the opening concert of the Calgary Phil’s 2026-27 season. Several family members and friends donned the same or similar pants in tribute, including CPO president and CEO Marc Stevens.

“He knew he was a figurehead, which was why he chose the red trousers, because he knew it would stand out,” Stevens said. “He said, ‘we need a brand for this, we need a brand to make people remember that they need to give to the orchestra and to the arts in general.’ ”

“I think that’s what John would like his legacy to be, that people have to build the arts in order to build a great city, and to live a good life and be happy, connected, curious, humble people like he was.”

A petroleum engineer, Lacey built a successful global consulting business after moving to Calgary from London, England, with his wife Naomi. A stalwart in the energy field, he had a strong belief that successful cities also needed arts and music. He helped establish the Friends of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and was a major donor. He funded the Virtuoso Program to support musical excellence and emerging talent, and also helped create major fundraising events like Cork and Canvas and Ad Astra.

Lacey’s obituary noted that he saw philanthropy not just as giving money but as helping build organizations that could stand for generations. “His legacy can be found in concert programs and classrooms, galleries and museums, and in opportunities made possible for musicians and artists.”

“He was very effective in communicating what it is that he felt passionately about. He did it succinctly, kindly and with spirit. His voice was always heard, and it was always so sharp,” said David Leinster, CEO of Contemporary Calgary.

“He has very colourful pants to fill, but I hope his legacy inspires others in the community to recognize that our city is as cultural vibrant as it is not because of the arts alone. but because of the people who make it the arts.”

Lacey also served as chair of the Mount Royal University Conservatory Advisory Committee as a director of Contemporary Calgary.

In 2022, he was invested into the Order of Canada and received Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.

Stevens said Lacey would’ve wanted to be remembered not by his accolades, but his character.

“I think (what) he would want people to remember about him is that giving back culture that we all have to do— whether it’s volunteering or being good neighbours —to have a great city to live in” Stevens said. “I think he exemplified that when choosing to make his life in Calgary.”

A celebration of life will be held at Contemporary Calgary on Oct. 24 at 3 p.m., with the family hoping Calgarians come out to commemorate Lacey with joy. Any Calgarians wanting to honour Lacey can make donations to Contemporary Calgary or the Calgary Phil.