David Mintz, the former president of Global Television Network, passed away at his home in Toronto on Feb. 5.

‘David was the original architect of Global’s now powerful programming schedule and Global’s current success is based largely on what David accomplished during his 15 years at Global. The entire broadcasting industry has lost a brilliant statesman,’ said Izzy Asper, executive chairman of CanWest Global, in a statement.

‘David was a very important man in the development of my career and my company,’ stated Michael MacMillan, president and CEO of Alliance Atlantis. ‘He believed in doing things differently and honestly. He trusted people.’

Mintz joined Global in November 1979 and retired in 1993. He was responsible for bringing to Global such popular programs as Cheers, 60 Minutes, Hill Street Blues and St. Elsewhere.

A broadcasting veteran for more than 50 years, Mintz started his career as a radio announcer at WKBW in Buffalo, NY.

He was also president of Canawest Film Production in Vancouver and Canawest Master Film Productions in Calgary from 1957 to 1977.

Other past positions include CEO of Canvideo Television Sales and Metro Marketing West.