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Toronto, Ontario
Grant of Arms
June 7, 2000
Vol. IV, p. 34
Arms of Yvan Joseph Pierre BourdeauBlazonArgent two torteaux in pale each charged with a maple leaf Argent and rayonny of sixteen alternately Gules and Or; SymbolismThe design is centred on the shared national colours of Japan and Canada, the maple leaf, and the red sun disc from the flag of Japan. These references indicate Mrs. Bourdeau’s Japanese background and Mr. Bourdeau’s longstanding interest in Japanese-Canadian business cooperation. The sunburst represents both the light of knowledge and striving for excellence. The symbol is used twice for Mr. and Mrs. Bourdeau’s two daughters. |
CrestBlazonA demi lion Gules wearing a circlet the rim set with bezants alternating with fleurs-de-lis Or and holding in its paws a beaker Argent; SymbolismThe lion symbolizes Mr. and Mrs. Bourdeau’s shared determination and strength. The flask is an indication of Mrs. Bourdeau’s profession as a pharmacist involved in medical research. The coronet made of fleurs-de-lis and gold discs, representative of coins, refers to Mr. Bourdeau’s Montreal birthplace and his career in international banking. |
MottoBlazonCHISEI • LEADERSHIP • INTÉGRITÉ; SymbolismThe first word, CHISEI, is a transcription of the Japanese word for “wisdom” or “knowledge”. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationThe announcement of the letters patent was made on March 24, 2001 in Volume 135, page 937 of the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority PainterDebra MacGarvie CalligrapherNancy Ellis Recipient TypeIndividual |