Patrick Kerwin was born in 1889 in Sarnia, Ontario Canada. He studied law at Osgoode Hall in Toronto, was called to the bar of Ontario in 1911, became King’s Counsel in 1928, and became a Justice of the Supreme Court of Ontario in 1932. In 1935, he became a Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, and in 1954 he became Chief Justice.

In truth the individual is the most important fact in the world in all enlightened systems and it must be the aim of the State to preserve his natural rights while at the same time ensuring that the rights of one do not interfere with those of another. – P.K., Harvard University address, 1955

…a dear devoted friend who was always happy to deputize for me, sometimes at great inconvenience to himself. For many years he has filled with grace and wisdom his exalted office. I shall miss his friendship and help. – Governor-General Georges Vanier, 1963

Mr. Kerwin is well equipped by training and temperament for his new office. He never gets ruffled in court, is always courteous to counsel …Those who disagree with him will declare without hesitation that Mr. Kerwin is fair-minded, absolutely without bias or prejudice. – Globe & Mail, 1954