Mr. George A. Cohon

  • Deceased
  • Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Order of Canada

  • Officer of the Order of Canada

    • Awarded on: October 21, 1992
    • Invested on: April 21, 1993

    Senior chairperson of the Canadian branch of a famous North American fast food empire, he has continued to astound the industry with his success by leading the company into the Soviet market. Moreover, this community leader consistently supports many charitable organizations. His Ronald McDonald Houses and Children's Charities of Canada have made a great difference in the lives of countless young people and their families.This is a promotion within the Order.

  • Member of the Order of Canada

    • Awarded on: December 21, 1987
    • Invested on: May 06, 1988

    Perhaps if his name was "Mr. McDonald", he would be as well-known as the product he markets, but there are countless charitable organizations and community groups that have benefitted from his whole-hearted support, time and energy. He is the founding patron of the Ronald McDonald Houses, Chairman of the Board of the Ontario Science Centre, and continues to contribute both personally and financially to a host of other activities.

  • Companion of the Order of Canada

    • Awarded on: November 22, 2019
    • Invested on: August 25, 2023

    George A. Cohon, C.C., O.Ont
    Toronto, Ontario and Moscow, Russia

    Driven by a passion for the well-being of children, George Cohon is a phenomenon who continues to have a life-changing impact on society. Founder of McDonald’s Canada and Russia, he has led efforts to raise hundreds of millions of dollars through McHappy Day and established Ronald McDonald House Charities in both countries. In addition to his ongoing service on the boards of several prominent organizations, he still generously devotes time to personal visits with sick children.

    This is a promotion within the Order.