Jack Layton dead of cancer at 61This is so very sad. Though given the way he looked when he announced his leave of absence as leader of the opposition, I'm not surprised, still, one always hopes. But Jack (and I call him that as that's what he always asked to be called) was the best thing to happen to the New Democratic Party since Ed Broadbent. In these years of increasing political conservatism he was someone who could give those Canadians who don't believe in that ideology some hope. A statement posted in a comment on the CBC website, purported to be from Michaëlle Jean, Canada's former governor general, says:
"It is with profound sadness that my husband Jean-Daniel Lafond, our daughter Marie-Eden and I, learnt of the death of Jack Layton. Our country is losing a man of courage and great integrity.A man of boundless energy and deep, deep love for his country and its citizens. He will truly be missed.
He embodied, and knew how to defend with vigor and conviction, the values closest to the hearts of Canadians. His determination, his love of the country, his optimism, his great compassion, his ability to listen, his personal warmth, and his open-mindedness, are all qualities that will be missed.
Our thoughts are with his wife, Olivia Chow, children and grand-daughter as well as with all his extended family, friends and fellow travelers now afflicted by grief. From him, we will keep the best memories."
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