Former Canadian PM Trudeau dies
- Thread starter denali
- Start date
dennilfloss
Past Lifer 1957-2014 In Memoriam
I first saw him from a short distance in 1968. I was 11 and very impressed by the strength, the intelligence and the charisma projected by Pierre Elliot Trudeau. I shook his hand and exchanged a few words with him during the 1974 and 1980 election campaigns, when I was working as a volunteer for the Liberal Party Of Canada.
Mr. Trudeau was a giant amongst men, a man with the clearest vision of what Canada should become, a man of vast, and to some... threatening, intellect, a compassionate man who favoured tolerance and inclusion, a man of utmost dignity, a man of great vitality, a man of great charm, and a man of great class, a man of destiny, a man of absolute integrity.
I consider him my spiritual father and he has influenced my life in so many aspects. Canada is the nation that we know today because of Mr. Trudeau. His constitutional legacy and the tolerance he infused in the Canadian psyche mean that he will still influence our country for a long, long time.
I have been crying aloud since a little after 4pm, when my father told me the sad news on the phone. I am devastated.
No songs tonight.
Mr. Trudeau was a giant amongst men, a man with the clearest vision of what Canada should become, a man of vast, and to some... threatening, intellect, a compassionate man who favoured tolerance and inclusion, a man of utmost dignity, a man of great vitality, a man of great charm, and a man of great class, a man of destiny, a man of absolute integrity.
I consider him my spiritual father and he has influenced my life in so many aspects. Canada is the nation that we know today because of Mr. Trudeau. His constitutional legacy and the tolerance he infused in the Canadian psyche mean that he will still influence our country for a long, long time.
I have been crying aloud since a little after 4pm, when my father told me the sad news on the phone. I am devastated.
No songs tonight.
Truly one of the most important people in Canadian politics. My thoughts & prayers go out to his family.
Sincerely,
Aquaman
Sincerely,
Aquaman
This poem has lingered at the back of my mind for many years. I read this aloud in high school at a memorial assembly the day after President Kennedy's death, and thought I had forgotten it until I heard, today, of the death of Pierre Elliott Trudeau.
~~~
I Think Continually of Those Who Were Truly Great
I think continually of those who were truly great,
Who, from the womb, remembered the soul's history
Through corridors of light where the hours are suns,
Endless and singing. Whose lovely ambition
Was that their lips, still touched with fire,
Should tell of the spirit clothed from head to foot in song.
And who hoarded from the spring branches
The desires falling across their bodies like blossoms.
What is precious is never to forget
The delight of the blood drawn from ancient springs
Breaking through rocks in worlds before our earth;
Never to deny its pleasure in the simple morning light,
Nor its grave evening demand for love;
Never to allow gradually the traffic to smother
With noise and fog the flowering of the spirit.
Near the snow, near the sun, in the highest fields
See how these names are fêted by the waving grass,
And by the streamers of white cloud,
And whispers of wind in the listening sky;
The names of those who in their lives fought for life,
Who wore at their hearts the fire's centre.
Born of the sun, they travelled a short while towards the sun,
And left the vivid air signed with their honour.
...Stephen Spender
~~~
I Think Continually of Those Who Were Truly Great
I think continually of those who were truly great,
Who, from the womb, remembered the soul's history
Through corridors of light where the hours are suns,
Endless and singing. Whose lovely ambition
Was that their lips, still touched with fire,
Should tell of the spirit clothed from head to foot in song.
And who hoarded from the spring branches
The desires falling across their bodies like blossoms.
What is precious is never to forget
The delight of the blood drawn from ancient springs
Breaking through rocks in worlds before our earth;
Never to deny its pleasure in the simple morning light,
Nor its grave evening demand for love;
Never to allow gradually the traffic to smother
With noise and fog the flowering of the spirit.
Near the snow, near the sun, in the highest fields
See how these names are fêted by the waving grass,
And by the streamers of white cloud,
And whispers of wind in the listening sky;
The names of those who in their lives fought for life,
Who wore at their hearts the fire's centre.
Born of the sun, they travelled a short while towards the sun,
And left the vivid air signed with their honour.
...Stephen Spender
I do not know of him, it sounds as though I should .. Reading dennil's post brough tears to my eyes
It sounds as though he will be dearly missed by a great number of people...
It sounds as though he will be dearly missed by a great number of people...
Eli he was a very important figure in Canada. If I am correct (im not Candaian) he created or help create the current Canadian Constitution and as also stood firm when French Speaking Quebec wanted to break away. Canadians correct me if I am wrong.
A man of integrity and honor, without reproach in his political and private life. His candor in dealing with issues was a true measure of the man. Once, while confronting, a group of striking postal worker , he told them "......You don't have to be postal workers you know" Or the famous "Fuddle Duddle" he said under his breath in parliament. All Canadians regardless of party loyalty admired the man.
I was 4 years old I think when he left politics, but he is truly legendary and that's why I know him. A man like that leaves a legacy, and believe it or not I'd say much of the goodness that is Canada is Trudeau's legacy. It is too bad he never crafted a successor for himself
-GL
-GL
sandorski
No Lifer
- Oct 10, 1999
- 70,566
- 6,112
- 126
Loved him or hated him, there is no doubt that he was the most significant PM for at least my lifetime(since the 60's). During my teens(early 80's) I didn't care for him, my political views were more conservative and my teenaged male sensibilities put me more into the "hate him" camp. As I got older and more knowledgeable in political ways, I couldn't help but admire Trudeau.
He will be remembered as one of Canada's greatest Prime Ministers to be sure!
He will be remembered as one of Canada's greatest Prime Ministers to be sure!
I dont think any world leader in this century has had the charisma and 'charm' like Trudeau did.
Could you imagine any any politician fingering protesters? Telling a member of the other political party to "F.ck off" in the middle of parliament(he later recanted that he only said "fuddle duddle" heheh) Putting the media in their place when asked about the affiars his ex wife was having, saying that a Gentleman does not answer such questions and a True gentleman does not ASK such questions. Being the first Western Nation to recognize China (before Nixon went, in fact nixon told him not to go, and i believe trudeau told him to F off as well, those water gate tapes that have surfaced recently recorded nixon calling Trudeau an Asshole!) Dancing with arabian prince's in the desert, taking a stand firm with seperatist rebels by sending in the army, doing a lil dance behind the queens back, skipping up the stairs or sprinting down a hallway just to make the reporters break a sweat all while living a playboy lifestyle and having affairs with such women as Barbra Streisand? He served in the role of Prime Minister for over 12 years. The longest serving "western" leader of any country.
The word unique only begins to describe this unique man.
Could you imagine any any politician fingering protesters? Telling a member of the other political party to "F.ck off" in the middle of parliament(he later recanted that he only said "fuddle duddle" heheh) Putting the media in their place when asked about the affiars his ex wife was having, saying that a Gentleman does not answer such questions and a True gentleman does not ASK such questions. Being the first Western Nation to recognize China (before Nixon went, in fact nixon told him not to go, and i believe trudeau told him to F off as well, those water gate tapes that have surfaced recently recorded nixon calling Trudeau an Asshole!) Dancing with arabian prince's in the desert, taking a stand firm with seperatist rebels by sending in the army, doing a lil dance behind the queens back, skipping up the stairs or sprinting down a hallway just to make the reporters break a sweat all while living a playboy lifestyle and having affairs with such women as Barbra Streisand? He served in the role of Prime Minister for over 12 years. The longest serving "western" leader of any country.
The word unique only begins to describe this unique man.
dennilfloss
Past Lifer 1957-2014 In Memoriam
Trudeau was the ultimate leader. At a time when great men like John & Robert Kennedy and Martin Luther King were assassinated in the US, Canada embraced Trudeau and showed the world what might have been if those luminaries had not been extinguished too early in their life.
Above all, he exuded confidence and hope for the future. One of the qualities of a leader is to usher the future into the present. Trudeau did exactly that for Canada. He wanted Canada to be a model for future civilisations. There is a chill over all the nation today, but when you hear people talk, you realise that Mr. Trudeau is still very much alive in our hearts and in our minds.
Above all, he exuded confidence and hope for the future. One of the qualities of a leader is to usher the future into the present. Trudeau did exactly that for Canada. He wanted Canada to be a model for future civilisations. There is a chill over all the nation today, but when you hear people talk, you realise that Mr. Trudeau is still very much alive in our hearts and in our minds.
dennilfloss
Past Lifer 1957-2014 In Memoriam
The state funeral will be held Tuesday morning at 11 from the Notre-Dame basilica in Montreal. His body arrives on Parliament Hill tomorrow morning at 10 and will lie in state for public viewing on Saturday and Sunday. If my health allows me to walk the 15 minutes there, I definitely intend to go pay my final respects to this great man.
Beautiful Goodbye (Amanda Marshall)
Beautiful Goodbye (Amanda Marshall)
<< "Good riddance. I don't know if we'll go and spit on his tomb but it's good to get rid of an enemy like that," Raymond Villeneuve, Quebec separatist and former Front de libération du Québec terrorist, said. >>
Taken from The Globe and Mail, Sept. 29.
You know, I think in Mr. Trudeau's death, we learn yet again that the leaders of Quebec's separation movement are nothing but calous twits. It's a shame, because I know a lot of Quebecers that are for separation because they truly believe they'd be better off...well, perhaps a quick glance at the morning paper will clue them in to the type of people that are/were leading their cause.
-GL
sandorski
No Lifer
- Oct 10, 1999
- 70,566
- 6,112
- 126
Holy crap that is just a sad(yet once again revealing)comment from a Quebec separatist. Perhaps in his death, P. E. Trudeau is once again able to expose the fallacy of following the shifty Quebec Separatist hacks.
Some people just have no respect!
Some people just have no respect!
dennilfloss
Past Lifer 1957-2014 In Memoriam
Mr. Trudeau's last moments consisted of sitting on his bed with his oldest son Justin by his side and the last rites were performed by his priest friend of 40 years. Together, he and his pastor recited The Lord's Prayer in French, slowly, word by word, and Mr. Trudeau then tipped to one side and died.
I hate my body more than ever today for I am too weak to go stand in line 4-5 hours to pay my respects in the Parliament's Hall Of Honor, where he lies in state, less than 15 minutes from where I live. :| Yesterday, 24,000 people paid hommage to him that way. They just evaluated that over 40,000 will come today.
My prayers are with him.
Newsworld coverage
Who Will Save Your Soul? (Jewel)
I hate my body more than ever today for I am too weak to go stand in line 4-5 hours to pay my respects in the Parliament's Hall Of Honor, where he lies in state, less than 15 minutes from where I live. :| Yesterday, 24,000 people paid hommage to him that way. They just evaluated that over 40,000 will come today.
My prayers are with him.
Newsworld coverage
Who Will Save Your Soul? (Jewel)
dennilfloss
Past Lifer 1957-2014 In Memoriam
A closer look at his life.
Tributes to Pierre Trudeau
Statement by Adrienne Clarkson, Governor General of Canada, on the death of Pierre Elliott Trudeau
In Canada, Pierre Elliott Trudeau is the sole figure who has continually dominated our imaginations and our spirits for nearly forty years. His intelligence, often acerbic, always brilliant, exercised a formidable and irresistible fascination which intrigued us all. We were engaged, and frequently enthralled by this man who told us in his own words that `in high school . . . I had already made up my mind to swim against the tide.'
He showed us that it was a worthwhile and honest thing to do. He stimulated us to sensations, feelings and thoughts that challenged us. We could never be indifferent to him. In this way, he gave us the opportunity to think differently, even uncomfortably about our established opinions.
"He had already told us that opposition to accepted opinions was the only constant in his intellectual life. When he was prime minister for so many years, we learned how that temperament dealt with the reality and responsibility of political leadership. We basked in his world fame while demanding his accountability to us as Canadians.
This extraordinary and brilliant man confirmed us as a bilingual, bi- cultural nation. His legacy, personal and public, is to confirm us in our understanding of what our nation is, and must be, to fulfill its original destiny. For this, we will forever be grateful to him.
Here is the text of the statement on the death of Pierre Trudeau from Prime Minister Chretien, issued by his office in Ottawa:
Pierre Trudeau, the embodiment of the dream of a just society, has left us.
He is gone, but his unfinished work remains, our country, Canada.
Above all, the forces of change that he set in motion continue to shape the soul of his people, a people who, thanks to him, in ever greater numbers, express themselves in both of our official languages. A people who celebrate the diverse roots of our identity, a compassionate people, who reach out to the less fortunate, a young people with a profound love of freedom, justice, and fairness.
Pierre Trudeau dreamed of a society that afforded all of its citizens an equal opportunity to succeed in life, whatever their background or beliefs, whether rich or poor.
He believed that what we have in common was a source of our strength, and what set us apart enriched us all.
On the international stage, he gave us a profile and stature well beyond our size and power.
Where ever we were in the world, he made us feel proud to be Canadians, proud to have the immense privilage of being part of this beautiful and great country.
A political giant, he was also a man who in his last days, suffered terribly from the loss of his son, Michel.
Today, they are together at peace.
Pierre, my friend, your dream is more alive than ever.
Thank-you.
On behalf of all Canadians, Aline joins me in expressing our deepest condolences to his family.
The Queen
Prince Philip and I were very sad to hear of the death of Pierre Trudeau, who as prime minister gave so many years of dedicated service to Canada. Please convey our deep sympathy to his family and to the people of Canada at this time.
Opposition Leader Stockwell Day speaking to Peter Mansbridge
I never actually met him. I was caught up as many were. I was only 17 at the time. You know we always understand and heard after Trudeaumania. There was an energy there, a charisma there, a fascination that went around him and through him and with him.
And in spite of where you were politically, you were struck by that. And again, I think it comes from a person's depth of vision and depth of heart for that vision. That it shows through and showed through with Mr. Trudeau.
Conservative Leader Joe Clark
He was a giant of a man, who had an extraordinary effect on the country. He set a standard by which others who follow him will be judged for a long time. He was an activist, he tried to change things ? sometimes for better, sometimes for worse."
NDP Leader Alexa McDonough
A generation of Canadians who came of age in the 1960s and 70s remembers Pierre Trudeau as the prime minister who defined that optimistic era. His belief in a bilingual, multilingual Canada and a strong social safety net helped to shape the values of Canadians.
U.S. President Bill Clinton
I was deeply saddened to learn today of the death of Pierre Trudeau. As Prime Minister for nearly a generation, Pierre Trudeau opened a dynamic new era in Canadian politics and helped establish Canada's unique imprint on the global stage. I know his passing will be felt by all Canadians. Hillary joins me in offering the condolences of the American people to his two sons and to the people of Canada.
British Prime Minister Tony Blair
He was a prime minister with vision, political courage and great personal style. We mourn his passing.
Statement from former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney
Pierre Elliott Trudeau was an exceptional individual who served his country effectively and well.
Although we had significant politicial disagreements at times, I have always readily acknowledged his great skill and determination in seeking to persuade Canadians of the value of his vision of Canada.
History will eventually judge us all but I have no doubt Mr. Trudeau will be remembered as a gallant political warrior who loved his country and devoted much of his life to its service.
Mila joins me in conveying to his children and all other members of his family our deepest condolences on their loss.
Former Prime Minister John Turner speaking to Peter Mansbridge
I was his Minister of Justice. I had a lot to do with under his leadership bringing in the Official Languages Act which equalized French and English across the country... we got along personally, shared many Christmas eves together, many meals together, some holidays together. So, yes there were differences but you always knew where you stood with Mr. Trudeau and he was a great man to work for.
He gave you latitude. Expected you to do your job. So, I have the happiest memories of him as a person, It was a privilege to serve under him because he was the most remarkable Canadian of his generation.
John Crosbie on As It Happens
I admired him. He was a larger than life character...A bit of arrogance is good in a politician.
Deputy Prime Minister Herb Gray
He was a giant in modern Canadian political history. He won't be equalled in our time ... and for a long time to come.
Former NDP leader Ed Broadbent
What he brought to politics and what I think he is going to be remembered for is the fusion of passion and reason.
Ontario Premier Mike Harris
Like people in every corner of Canada, and those around the world, I was profoundly sorry to hear of the passing of former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau.
Pierre Trudeau was an historic figure who will never be forgotten. His love for our country was never in question. He was a man of principle with a clear vision for Canada that he pursued with single-minded determination.
As Prime Minister, he practised politics with a distinct flair. His charisma and his passion moved an entire generation of Canadians and awakened in many young people an excitement for politics and a commitment to build a better future for Canada. That legacy continues to endure.
On behalf of the people of Ontario, I would like to offer sincere condolences to members of his family and to his many close friends.
Quebec Premier Lucien Bouchard
In taking clear-cut positions, he prompted admiration from his friends as much as he did controversy among his adversaries... In the diverse roles he played, he defended his convictions with energy... History will remember him as a man of willpower and intelligence.
Saskatchewan Premier Roy Romanow
Over the 20 years Mr. Trudeau spent in federal politics, and even beyond, he was a passionate defender of this nation, of our federal system and of the truly Canadian belief that our identity as Canadians is not compromised but strengthened when we identify ourselves in other ways.
You can be proud Quebecois, Trudeau said, and a proud Canadian. You can be a proud citizen of Saskatchewan, he said, and a proud and important citizen of this nation."
He was an accomplished lawyer and scholar, a prolific writer ? truly a man of many rare intellectual gifts."
He was also very charming, which has been well documented. Gracious and sophisticated, and this might surprise some -- very funny, with a sharp dry wit. He was a very robust sportsman and adventurer.
I want to extend my deepest condolences to the Trudeau family, on behalf of my wife Eleanore, the government of Saskatchewan, and the people of our province."
Nova Scotia Premier John Hamm
Pierre Trudeau shaped the history of our country in the 20th century as few prime ministers did.
Alberta Premier Ralph Klein
On behalf of all Albertans, I send my deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Mr. Trudeau. Pierre Trudeau was one of Canada's most colourful and passionate political figures of the twentieth century, and his legacy will live on in Canadian history.
Alberta had its differences with the former Prime Minister on some issues. But no one ever doubted his commitment to a strong, united Canada or to the principles of justice and equality. He fought hard for this country, and his contributions will not be forgotten."
To Mr. Trudeau's children and other family members, Albertans extend their prayers and heartfelt regards in this time of sorry.
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter
We will remember him as a vibrant and charismatic man who applied his talents to further Canada and later, other countries in the Western Hemisphere. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Former Governor General Romeo LeBlanc in a CBC an interview
I had seen him August but I didn't think he had been ill as much as that and so suddenly ? in fact when he returned from New Brunswick ? he had more serious problems.
It's pretty hard to accept that somehow he's not somewhere - he is somewhere where he has chosen all his life to go - but the fact is that the country will, and it was interesting the first time he was reported being ill of considerably interest and publication and other means of discussion.
Trudeau has left a remarkable imprint on this country. I think the Charter of Rights in the long pull is going to be very important ? that the right of citizens are not to be to be changed by political powers...
Of course, sometimes we just disagreed with him, and a lot of people did and still do ? but that's okay, he's never been one to want people not to say something if they feel like it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Former MP Don Godfrey (Liberal Don Valley) told of a canoe trip he took with Trudeau, when Trudeau manouvered along a trecherous S-shaped run of white water. Godfrey was watching from below and saw a look of fear and terror in Trudeau eyes. At the end, Godfrey asked Trudeau how it went and Trudeau said fine. Godfrey then said, "But there was a moment..." And Trudeau looked at him and said, "There's always a moment." Godfrey told As It Happens, "It was a summary of his general character and his take on life."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I Won't Back Down (Tom Petty)
Tributes to Pierre Trudeau
Statement by Adrienne Clarkson, Governor General of Canada, on the death of Pierre Elliott Trudeau
In Canada, Pierre Elliott Trudeau is the sole figure who has continually dominated our imaginations and our spirits for nearly forty years. His intelligence, often acerbic, always brilliant, exercised a formidable and irresistible fascination which intrigued us all. We were engaged, and frequently enthralled by this man who told us in his own words that `in high school . . . I had already made up my mind to swim against the tide.'
He showed us that it was a worthwhile and honest thing to do. He stimulated us to sensations, feelings and thoughts that challenged us. We could never be indifferent to him. In this way, he gave us the opportunity to think differently, even uncomfortably about our established opinions.
"He had already told us that opposition to accepted opinions was the only constant in his intellectual life. When he was prime minister for so many years, we learned how that temperament dealt with the reality and responsibility of political leadership. We basked in his world fame while demanding his accountability to us as Canadians.
This extraordinary and brilliant man confirmed us as a bilingual, bi- cultural nation. His legacy, personal and public, is to confirm us in our understanding of what our nation is, and must be, to fulfill its original destiny. For this, we will forever be grateful to him.
Here is the text of the statement on the death of Pierre Trudeau from Prime Minister Chretien, issued by his office in Ottawa:
Pierre Trudeau, the embodiment of the dream of a just society, has left us.
He is gone, but his unfinished work remains, our country, Canada.
Above all, the forces of change that he set in motion continue to shape the soul of his people, a people who, thanks to him, in ever greater numbers, express themselves in both of our official languages. A people who celebrate the diverse roots of our identity, a compassionate people, who reach out to the less fortunate, a young people with a profound love of freedom, justice, and fairness.
Pierre Trudeau dreamed of a society that afforded all of its citizens an equal opportunity to succeed in life, whatever their background or beliefs, whether rich or poor.
He believed that what we have in common was a source of our strength, and what set us apart enriched us all.
On the international stage, he gave us a profile and stature well beyond our size and power.
Where ever we were in the world, he made us feel proud to be Canadians, proud to have the immense privilage of being part of this beautiful and great country.
A political giant, he was also a man who in his last days, suffered terribly from the loss of his son, Michel.
Today, they are together at peace.
Pierre, my friend, your dream is more alive than ever.
Thank-you.
On behalf of all Canadians, Aline joins me in expressing our deepest condolences to his family.
The Queen
Prince Philip and I were very sad to hear of the death of Pierre Trudeau, who as prime minister gave so many years of dedicated service to Canada. Please convey our deep sympathy to his family and to the people of Canada at this time.
Opposition Leader Stockwell Day speaking to Peter Mansbridge
I never actually met him. I was caught up as many were. I was only 17 at the time. You know we always understand and heard after Trudeaumania. There was an energy there, a charisma there, a fascination that went around him and through him and with him.
And in spite of where you were politically, you were struck by that. And again, I think it comes from a person's depth of vision and depth of heart for that vision. That it shows through and showed through with Mr. Trudeau.
Conservative Leader Joe Clark
He was a giant of a man, who had an extraordinary effect on the country. He set a standard by which others who follow him will be judged for a long time. He was an activist, he tried to change things ? sometimes for better, sometimes for worse."
NDP Leader Alexa McDonough
A generation of Canadians who came of age in the 1960s and 70s remembers Pierre Trudeau as the prime minister who defined that optimistic era. His belief in a bilingual, multilingual Canada and a strong social safety net helped to shape the values of Canadians.
U.S. President Bill Clinton
I was deeply saddened to learn today of the death of Pierre Trudeau. As Prime Minister for nearly a generation, Pierre Trudeau opened a dynamic new era in Canadian politics and helped establish Canada's unique imprint on the global stage. I know his passing will be felt by all Canadians. Hillary joins me in offering the condolences of the American people to his two sons and to the people of Canada.
British Prime Minister Tony Blair
He was a prime minister with vision, political courage and great personal style. We mourn his passing.
Statement from former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney
Pierre Elliott Trudeau was an exceptional individual who served his country effectively and well.
Although we had significant politicial disagreements at times, I have always readily acknowledged his great skill and determination in seeking to persuade Canadians of the value of his vision of Canada.
History will eventually judge us all but I have no doubt Mr. Trudeau will be remembered as a gallant political warrior who loved his country and devoted much of his life to its service.
Mila joins me in conveying to his children and all other members of his family our deepest condolences on their loss.
Former Prime Minister John Turner speaking to Peter Mansbridge
I was his Minister of Justice. I had a lot to do with under his leadership bringing in the Official Languages Act which equalized French and English across the country... we got along personally, shared many Christmas eves together, many meals together, some holidays together. So, yes there were differences but you always knew where you stood with Mr. Trudeau and he was a great man to work for.
He gave you latitude. Expected you to do your job. So, I have the happiest memories of him as a person, It was a privilege to serve under him because he was the most remarkable Canadian of his generation.
John Crosbie on As It Happens
I admired him. He was a larger than life character...A bit of arrogance is good in a politician.
Deputy Prime Minister Herb Gray
He was a giant in modern Canadian political history. He won't be equalled in our time ... and for a long time to come.
Former NDP leader Ed Broadbent
What he brought to politics and what I think he is going to be remembered for is the fusion of passion and reason.
Ontario Premier Mike Harris
Like people in every corner of Canada, and those around the world, I was profoundly sorry to hear of the passing of former Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau.
Pierre Trudeau was an historic figure who will never be forgotten. His love for our country was never in question. He was a man of principle with a clear vision for Canada that he pursued with single-minded determination.
As Prime Minister, he practised politics with a distinct flair. His charisma and his passion moved an entire generation of Canadians and awakened in many young people an excitement for politics and a commitment to build a better future for Canada. That legacy continues to endure.
On behalf of the people of Ontario, I would like to offer sincere condolences to members of his family and to his many close friends.
Quebec Premier Lucien Bouchard
In taking clear-cut positions, he prompted admiration from his friends as much as he did controversy among his adversaries... In the diverse roles he played, he defended his convictions with energy... History will remember him as a man of willpower and intelligence.
Saskatchewan Premier Roy Romanow
Over the 20 years Mr. Trudeau spent in federal politics, and even beyond, he was a passionate defender of this nation, of our federal system and of the truly Canadian belief that our identity as Canadians is not compromised but strengthened when we identify ourselves in other ways.
You can be proud Quebecois, Trudeau said, and a proud Canadian. You can be a proud citizen of Saskatchewan, he said, and a proud and important citizen of this nation."
He was an accomplished lawyer and scholar, a prolific writer ? truly a man of many rare intellectual gifts."
He was also very charming, which has been well documented. Gracious and sophisticated, and this might surprise some -- very funny, with a sharp dry wit. He was a very robust sportsman and adventurer.
I want to extend my deepest condolences to the Trudeau family, on behalf of my wife Eleanore, the government of Saskatchewan, and the people of our province."
Nova Scotia Premier John Hamm
Pierre Trudeau shaped the history of our country in the 20th century as few prime ministers did.
Alberta Premier Ralph Klein
On behalf of all Albertans, I send my deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Mr. Trudeau. Pierre Trudeau was one of Canada's most colourful and passionate political figures of the twentieth century, and his legacy will live on in Canadian history.
Alberta had its differences with the former Prime Minister on some issues. But no one ever doubted his commitment to a strong, united Canada or to the principles of justice and equality. He fought hard for this country, and his contributions will not be forgotten."
To Mr. Trudeau's children and other family members, Albertans extend their prayers and heartfelt regards in this time of sorry.
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter
We will remember him as a vibrant and charismatic man who applied his talents to further Canada and later, other countries in the Western Hemisphere. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Former Governor General Romeo LeBlanc in a CBC an interview
I had seen him August but I didn't think he had been ill as much as that and so suddenly ? in fact when he returned from New Brunswick ? he had more serious problems.
It's pretty hard to accept that somehow he's not somewhere - he is somewhere where he has chosen all his life to go - but the fact is that the country will, and it was interesting the first time he was reported being ill of considerably interest and publication and other means of discussion.
Trudeau has left a remarkable imprint on this country. I think the Charter of Rights in the long pull is going to be very important ? that the right of citizens are not to be to be changed by political powers...
Of course, sometimes we just disagreed with him, and a lot of people did and still do ? but that's okay, he's never been one to want people not to say something if they feel like it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Former MP Don Godfrey (Liberal Don Valley) told of a canoe trip he took with Trudeau, when Trudeau manouvered along a trecherous S-shaped run of white water. Godfrey was watching from below and saw a look of fear and terror in Trudeau eyes. At the end, Godfrey asked Trudeau how it went and Trudeau said fine. Godfrey then said, "But there was a moment..." And Trudeau looked at him and said, "There's always a moment." Godfrey told As It Happens, "It was a summary of his general character and his take on life."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I Won't Back Down (Tom Petty)
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Discussion Intel current and future Lakes & Rapids thread- Started by TheF34RChannel
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