Appeal court also rejected abandonment claim during medical absence
When John Denton walked out of a heated July 15, 2020, meeting at Korpan Tractor and Parts saying "I am also done," his employer took those words as a resignation. Four months later, Korpan Tractor sent a letter: "This letter is to acknowledge that Korpan Tractor has accepted your resignation which you John Denton verbally announced to Brian and Tyler Korpan with Jarrie Hegg as witness on July 15, 2020." The Court of Appeal for Saskatchewan, in a March 27, 2026, ruling by Justice Lian M. Schwann, upheld a wrongful dismissal award of $348,450.44.
Denton had worked at Korpan Tractor since 1996, rising from apprentice mechanic to service manager with annual compensation of $177,725. He was dealing with known mental health challenges, including grief over his father's death and distress from COVID-related layoffs.
The meeting had already deteriorated before Denton arrived. Paul Lee, head of fleet repairs, walked out first. Brian Korpan then directed his anger at Denton. Tyler Korpan followed Denton to his office, where Denton testified he rescinded his resignation. Tyler said he could not recall this.
Within a day or two, Brian and Tyler told assembled staff that "John had not resigned but he needed some time off for his health" and that "he was expected to return." Tyler signed off on Denton's seven-week short-term disability claim under the company's Empire Life group insurance plan.
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