William Walker Kennedy

William Walker Kennedy, MC, QC (October 6, 1882 – February 10, 1963) was a distinguished Canadian politician and lawyer from Manitoba.

Born in Leeds County, Ontario, Kennedy pursued his education at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, before relocating to Manitoba in 1904. Initially, he spent two years as a journalist before enrolling in the University of Manitoba's law school. In 1909, he earned his law degree and subsequently was called to the bar.

During World War I, Kennedy demonstrated his dedication to service by joining the Canadian Expeditionary Force in November 1915. He served in France with the 46th Battalion from May 1917, earning recognition for his bravery at the Battle of Passchendaele, where he was wounded and received the Military Cross. Further commendations followed for his contributions to the Battle of Valenciennes, leading to field promotions to captain and then major before his discharge in 1919.

Transitioning back to civilian life, Kennedy ventured into politics and was elected to the House of Commons of Canada as the Conservative Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre in the 1925 federal election. Despite his defeat in the 1926 federal election, he made a successful return to Parliament in the 1930 federal election.

Notably, Kennedy assumed the role of Chairman of the Royal Commission on Price Spreads and Mass Buying during Prime Minister R.B. Bennett's administration. This commission, commissioned to address concerns raised by cabinet member H.H. Stevens, underscored Kennedy's commitment to public service.

Following a political career marked by highs and lows, Kennedy faced defeat in the 1940 federal election and, for the final time, in the 1945 election, bringing an end to his impactful contributions to Canadian politics.