Otto Jelinek, a former world-champion figure skater and federal cabinet minister, has passed away at the age of 86. His younger brother, Henry, described him as an ambitious and dedicated Canadian who always worked towards the betterment of the country. Born in Prague in 1940, Jelinek’s family fled Czechoslovakia’s communist regime, settling in Canada in 1952. His father, a successful cork factory owner, relocated the business to Oakville, Ontario, upon their arrival.
Jelinek and his sister Maria represented Canada in paired figure skating at the 1960 Winter Olympics in California. They later clinched a gold medal in Prague in 1962, marking a significant achievement in the world of figure skating. Jelinek ventured into sports commentary for CTV and established a company specializing in manufacturing hockey and figure skates, alongside touring with the Ice Capades show.
Transitioning into federal politics in 1972, Jelinek served as a Member of Parliament for various districts, including a term as the national revenue minister under Prime Minister Brian Mulroney. Notably, he held portfolios in sport and multiculturalism, aligning himself with right-of-center political views. Despite facing criticism for his outspoken nature, Jelinek remained firm in his convictions, advocating for policy changes and challenging governmental practices.
Following his tenure in politics, Jelinek engaged in private sector collaborations, including involvement in a project related to Pearson International Airport in Toronto. Despite controversies surrounding the airport’s privatization, Jelinek refused to testify to Parliament, opting to pursue business ventures in the Czech Republic. Eventually, he returned to Canada, retiring after a long and eventful career.
In 2013, Prime Minister Stephen Harper appointed Jelinek as the Canadian Ambassador to the Czech Republic, overseeing significant diplomatic initiatives. Jelinek’s family reflected on their journey from fleeing communism to his ambassadorial role in his birth country, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to Canadian diplomacy. Known for his love of gardening, golf, and music, Jelinek spent his retirement years by Lake Ontario, sharing stories and offering support to those around him.
Jelinek passed away peacefully at the Trillium Health Centre in Mississauga, Ontario, following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. His brother praised his resilience and grace in facing the illness until the very end.
