A man who founded what would become the largest independent commercial insurance brokerage in Atlantic Canada and who had a passion for helping children has passed away.

After working in the insurance industry for 20 years, Cal LeGrow founded Cal LeGrow Insurance in 1984.

It all started from an office in his basement where he would look at his wife, Lou, at the end of each week and ask if they had sold enough policies to buy a good bottle of rum.

Ten years ago, he formed the Cal LeGrow Foundation which focuses on improving the lives of children.

Co-workers call him the “life of the party,” from CEO to Santa Claus.

In addition to the St. John’s location, Cal LeGrow Ltd. has three offices in Atlantic Canada. His son, Jeff, is the current CEO.