Ron was a distinguished scholar, pioneering macroeconomist, and valued member of the Department of Economics at the University of Ottawa, where he served for many years as both professor and Chair. His intellectual leadership and dedication to both research and teaching helped shape the department and left a profound legacy in Canadian economics.
A leader in the development and application of macroeconometric models, Ron played a central role in the evolution of economic policy analysis in Canada. As Director of the CANDIDE project, he oversaw one of the country’s first large-scale macroeconometric models, laying the groundwork for future generations of applied economists and policymakers. His coauthored volume, A History of Macroeconometric Model-Building, remains a foundational reference in the field and continues to inform scholarly work to this day.
Ron’s academic career spanned more than seven decades. His research began with studies on household consumption and windfall income, later expanding to examine patterns of saving and spending across the life course. His work was marked by both depth and breadth, blending theoretical insight with practical relevance. Throughout his career, he exemplified the best of academic life — rigorous in his research, generous in his mentorship, and thoughtful in his leadership.
Beyond his scholarly contributions, Ron was a devoted mentor who inspired countless students and colleagues with his wisdom, integrity, and curiosity. His guidance shaped the paths of many who went on to make important contributions of their own, both in academia and in public service.
Ron Bodkin’s passing is a great loss to our academic community and to the broader field of economics. His contributions will continue to resonate for years to come, and he will be remembered with admiration, respect, and affection.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working with him.
For more about his life and legacy, please see Ron's full obituary.