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Pierre Elliott Trudeau
One of Our
Best and Brightest
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Canada has lost
a great canoeist.
– Mark Higenbottam
Canmore, Alberta |
This is just one of the thousands of letters poured in since the news of Pierre Trudeau's death. People have been writing us to pass along their condolences and to share their feelings of the former prime minister. We've divided them up so it's easier to find the comments you want to read. Read letters about:
Remembering the Former PM
Meeting Pierre Trudeau
Condolences to the Trudeau Family
Messages from Abroad
Poems, Prose and Prayers
From Canadian Immigrants
Love Him or Hate Him
Stories
Thank You, Pierre
Memories
The Post-Trudeau Generation
Waiting at the Gates
One Final Farewell
En Français
The Languages of the Land
Archived Letters
Your responses:
Who will speak for Canada now?
Matt Logan
Surrey, BC
Pierre Trudeau espoused a "Just Society." I am one Metis who clearly saw
the meaning and the conviction of his words.
In 1885, Canadian Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. John A. MacDonald, hounded
our leader Louis Riel to his death at the gallows. Nearly a century later,
in 1982, Canadian Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Pierre Elliot Trudeau brought
us the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. A Charter which provided for the
recognition of the Treaty and Aboriginal Rights of the Aboriginal peoples of
Canada, including those of the Metis.
As one who has grown accustomed to the prejudice and injustice of a Canada
born of Sir John A. and the people of his times, I was amazed that Riel's
people would one day end up being included so profoundly as part of Canada's
Constitution. The recognition of the Metis in this way is a legacy rarely
attributed to Mr. Trudeau but one which will never been forgotten by the
Metis.
Tony Belcourt
President
Metis Nation of Ontario
Politics goes something like this: on election day we turn our most
cherished possession, Canada, over to the Prime Minister to be cared for.
You could trust Trudeau with the country for one could not help but feel the
absolute love he had for it.
D. Connors
Bayfield, Nova Scotia
I grew up in Boom Town Alberta, with Mr. Trudeau as Prime Minister. After
watching much coverage of how the West hated him especially over the NEP I
thought the real truth should come out.
The "death" of the NEP and the Liberal party in the West was not about an
injustice to Western Canadians (Albertans) it was about greed.
It was not the NEP that stopped the oil from flowing, it was Peter Lougheed
who "turned off the tap". It should be noted that Mr. Lougheeds law firm, of
which he was still a silent partner as Premier, had as his clients, some or
all of the Big Oil companies.
The NEP though flawed in some respects, was not about servicing the East but
to protect all Canadians from what we are now facing today. An economic
crunch forced on us by foreign powers.
Our nation depends heavily on transportation particularly by diesel truck
and locomotive. The price of fuel directly effects every commodity and
manufactured good in this country. Having it set and stabilized meant a
stable economy where everyone could afford to have a piece of the pie.
The only people who did not benefit from this was the oil companies, who of
course were either American or British owned. So they put pressure on all
those Canadians who were getting rich by them and the politicians supported
by those getting rich.
In 1982 my home city of 22,000 had more millionaires per capita than
anywhere else in the world.
A few years later, these same people were crying for federal and provincial
support because the world price of oil was so low, lower than the guaranteed
price set by the NEP and the big oil companies had deserted the province
like it had the plague. It was a sad day to be Canadian, especially a Western Canadian, when greed
won out over the common good.
Mr. Trudeau may have made a mistake in catering to Quebec and seemingly
taking away from the West. I was pissed off by it myself but then wisdom
prevailed and I realized it was for the good of the whole of Canada, from
coast to coast.
It was not the American oil companies who gave me a sense of who I am, what
I am proud to be, for if I am anything, I am Canadian.
And I don't need an f***'n beer commercial to tell me that! I've been lucky
enough to know that all my life.
Pierre Trudeau gave me that, tolerance and passion for all those who believe
in what is available nowhere else in the entire world, freedom to live in a
just and equitable society. He epitomized the words "We stand on guard for
thee."
And we're now giving that up for numbers on a piece of paper.
Maybe Mr. Trudeau was just ahead of his time but hopefully he gave us a long
glimpse of the future.
My condolences to the Trudeau family
Brent Barnett
Early this morning, as dawn broke, I took my customary walk through woods with
my dog. I couldn't help but dwell on the great loss to Canada of P.E.T., a
man I learnt to admire for his integrity and concern for social justice.
Rare qualities in to-days Politicians. During my walk I passed a gigantic
Fir, some 100 yrs. old,standing firm and upright , rising above all the
surrounding trees to the sky.The image was so awe inspiring, that a 71-year-old man unashamedly wept for our loss.
Tony Farrell
Comox, British Columbia
My deepest condolences to the Trudeau family. Our former Prime Minister was respected by a nation, because he earned that respect. He was "one of us" - and a proud representative of the Canadian people.
I grew up in the 50's and 60's and have yet, to this day, felt the impact of a politician that I did when Pierre Trudeau was in front of the camera.
Last Christmas I created special photo albums for my adult daughters, and included a section of memories around growing up in the 60's. Included, was a section on Mr. Trudeau. I smiled as I remembered his presence.
A little voice from the huge crowd of mourners, thanks Margaret for being at his side until the end. It is in some small way, a consolation to those of us who wish to believe he was the man we thought he was. Knowing Margaret
thought so also, is reassuring.
My prayers will be with the family. Thank you for sharing this wonderful man with us.
Yours truly,
Audrie Brooks
The day after the funeral, I sit and contemplate the surprizing way we
reacted to his death. Canadians from coast to coast united in mourning for
a great Canadian. I cannot think of a single other person who could
have elicited such a response. Oh, I know there are those who point out
Pierre Trudeau's flaws and his errors... but who among us is without
imperfections?
As a Prime Minister, Trudeau made us proud to be Canadian. At his death, we
recall those feelings and feel that pride once again. That, perhaps, is his
true legacy to Canada.
I wonder if one of his children will enter politics and carry on the
legacy? It's not just Justin and Sasha I am thinking about. There is a
little blonde-haired girl who might one day help to shape Canada's destiny.
Au revoir, Monsieur Trudeau.
June Campbell
Vancouver
We bicker and complain. That's Canadians for you and I guess it's our
nature but we then get on with life.
But yesterday, whether there in Montreal or on TV, we're said good-bye
to a man who loved and cared for Canada and wanted it to stay together.
Most of us aren't sure what Quebecer's want. I know I have no idea.
All I know as I've travelled the world. This is a damn good country and
we should all be responsible to take care of it and be proud. But if you
have a strong complaint about Canada. or you don't like it here. Try
living somewhere else for a while. Trying living in a country in a
civil war termoil where thousands of innocent people get killed. Or a
country where there's not enough food to eat. . Or maybe a country
where there's no chance for a child to grow in relative safety and to
educate to become responsible adults and make a life for themselves.
Maybe if these hard complainers lived there for a while it might do them
good and appreciate more of Canada instead of taking it for granted.
Those who said they won't give a time of day for Trudeau well he gave a
lot of time and day for you. Sure, he wasn't perfect. Sure, he
couldn't please everybody all the time. But who can. Sure, Canada's
not perfect but we should work to strive for perfection and not break it
down (our country).
Canada is a beautiful country. And with the passing of a caring
Canadian man we should follow in his footsteps and strive to take care
of it, not break it down. As Justin said, his dad is not coming back to
fix mistakes or help us anymore, it is now up to us.
Sylvia Seschel
Kitchener, Ont.
Mr. Trudeau's funeral is over, everyone has gone home and we
probably won't hear much about him now, but his passing has left a hole in
my heart. I feel so sad it's difficult to just go on as if everything is
normal again. Am I the only one who feels like this? I somehow doubt it,
we've lost a part of our soul.
Vicki Robichaud
Nanaimo, BC
It is the day after your funeral Mr. Prime Minister Trudeau and I sit at my computer thinking of the impact you made on my life.
I remember the day I met you in Newmarket Ontario my Father took me to see
you and he wiggled me up to the front so I could shake your hand. I will never forget how you looked at me I remember I was 13 I will never forget when you shook my hand and I looked into your face I
thought oh my he likes me. You did not even know me and yet I felt a spiritual connection. Thank you Mr. Trudeau for liking me and all Canadians you have given me self respect and self asteem as you
showed us how to truly be Canadians. I am 47 now and have lived in Ontario, Quebec and now Nova Scotia I have visited all the provinces and this is the greatest place in the world to live. Thank you for
being an example to us all especially to parents. I have always been a stay at home mom and I adore my children and I am here for them as it is very evident that you were there for your children. They are
the future of our country and in your death you give them the opportunity to carry on and make Canada an even better place to live. I love you Mr. Trudeau and God Bless your family and Thank you for loving
us.
Sincerely Diane Witteman
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
The death of Pierre Trudeau reminds us of a time when, as a country, we felt youthful
and inspired. We were excited about our commitment to unity. So, it was
surprising ,in a way, to see so many people deeply saddened by his passing. I write
this, only because of the general negative view of ourselves as Canadian.
I'm reminded of the "brain drain", the American cultural brainwashing of us and
takeovers like Sears, Starbucks and Chapters. It seems that we don't
believe or care about ourselves anymore as a national entity. The threat of the collapse
of the CBC and the lack of interest in homegrown films are just two clues to our
disintegration as a society. Even our Olympians don't have the support to compete on the
world stage. How will we manage to bring them home to Toronto in 2008? But this can
all change.
We can recapture the spirit of "Trudeaumania" again by starting with
ourselves. Let's ask Mr. Chretien to remember his beginnings and rally national unity with action and participation. Let's look to our U.S. neighbours only as an example of
patriotism, and then begin to build ours one hundred times fold. Fight for our
education, our heath care system, hear our history and support our culture and business. Instead of tuning into "Third Watch," try "Da Vinci's Inquest. Try a cup of joe at Second Cup and a book at your neighbourhood store. Let's eliminate from our speech the phrase,
"if it's Canadian, it can't be good."
So, wave the flag and be proud...that's the true Trudeau spirit.
Sincerely,
Leah Pinsent
Toronto, Ontario
The walls are cold empty, the light is dim and vaguely utilitarian. Hope has been shattered and the people cry out for him, his spirit and his family. A man like no other crossed into a new life. He
was a class all his own possibly, a gift from the heavens. He was a man of vision and spark and hope and dreams. He did what was right and never went back on anything he said. That was the
kind of man Pierre Elliot Trudeau was. A man generations beyond his time, a man with a free spirit that could never be brought down. He carried himself with dignity, taste and charm. He had a
sense of humor and drive which sometimes led him into trouble what really characterized him, however, was the fact that he rarely felt any remorse for what he did. He was a statesman, outdoors
man, lawyer, politician, author and a patriot. In all these subjects he showed the same devil-may-care attitude and passion. He did everything he could. Now, he can do no more. He can do no more
with that passionate attitude, do no more for the country he loved, do no more for the family he loved. So, without the genius of Pierre Trudeau Canada will have to find it's way. For the visionary
that delivered Canada to a point it would have taken decades to get to, we, as the sons and daughters of Canada morn. Not for the politician (though he was a very good one), not for the outdoors
man(though he excelled at that as well), no, we morn the death and celebrate the life of Pierre Eliot Trudeau, the person. The person with morals and ethics, the person with infinite patience. The
man with love for his country and family. So, as sons and daughters of Canada we morn the loss of one of her fathers;
"The woods are lovely, dark and deep. He has kept his promises and earned his sleep. Je t'aime, papa." Justin Trudeau.
Good bye our father, we will miss you. "Je t'aime Papa." So little words for such a great man.
Alex Ng
Tornto Ontario
How sad! A little girl has lost her father, but only the sons and an
ex-wife are mentioned. How must she feel to be so left out.
Andrea Watling
I have spent some time with the TV in the past two days at great
emotional peril, for I have spent much of it in tears.... especially
last night when I watched the funeral train wind its way slowly to
Montreal and into a warm reception in Alexandria. Strangely, just the
day before, my companion and I had had a long discussion about
Alexandria and its amazingly beautiful golf course to which we may
return next weekend.
Pierre Trudeau was one of the truly great heroes in my life. At age
15, when the walls of my girlfriends' bedrooms were covered with posters
of rock and movie stars, mine was covered in posters of Trudeau. I
remember being very upset that Trudeau married Margaret and had not
waited for me. At at time when learning French was the last thing I
wanted to do because my marks in it were abysmal, I worked on the
campaign as a Young Liberal , knocking on doors in the French section of
my city, then represented by House Speaker Jim Jerome. and soon realized
the value of a second language. I caught the vision and followed it,
majoring in French in university. I was chosen to work on the
Ontario-Quebec Permanent Commission as a young graduate which later led
to teaching English in a Quebec City secondary school. My next post was
in Ottawa, teaching French and Music at the school to which Trudeau sent
his children.I was so privileged to have been invited by fate to be
connected in a small way to his life through teaching his children.
Although the path to my career was enhanced by my adhesion to Trudeau's
vision of a bilingual Canada and his celebration of the Arts , I do
realize that it was a reinforcement of a path, one already prepared and
set out for me by the philosophies of my immigrant Grandfather Wilson
and tempered by the indulgence of parents who encouraged me to follow my
dreams. I hope that 25 years of teaching have helped others to seek that
same ideal and find that same vision.
Thank you, Pierre..... you charted a course a course for a nation, a
vision for each unique Canadian and a song for an individual soul which
continues to sing unfettered in our freedoms. I will be forever
grateful.
Sincerely,
Shannon McMullan
Canada has lost a great canoeist.
Mark Higenbottam
Canmore, Alberta
Few Canadian politicians have ever paddled their own canoes, let alone done it so very well. Pierre communicated with the land and the water as well as the people of Canada. His sons obviously inherited his great passion for the
outdoors. My fondest image of Pierre is the one on CBC television of him in a buckskin jacket portaging his canoe.
To honour him, I suggest we retire forever both his paddle and his beautiful buckskin jacket, (with C A N A D A on the back), and hoist them to the ceiling of the house of commons where they will hang as a fitting tribute to his great love of this country. What could be more Canadian, eh? Unconventional? Oh Fuddle Duddle! He was never
the conventional politician. His memory deserves much better than just another conventional stuffed shirt portrait hung in the halls of parliament.
Jim Pat and Andrew Hopkins
Tsawwassen B.C.
Dear Pierre,
You have been our leader, lover, lawyer, brother and father for so
long. You taught us how to be grown up, self sufficient Canadians.
Only for you I learned politics with patience, passion, respect and open
mindedness.
Now that you've gone home it's up to us to carry on. I appreciate your
guiding light and hope never to let you down.
Thank you
Carole Despins
Vancouver
PS...Your sons are safe in British Columbia.
The noble dream has been consumed by flames. We reach to touch, but find
our hands filled with ashes. Canada is a riderless horse; a son that's lost
his father.
Tim van de Ven
Ottawa
He woke up Canada and brought it alive.
Ruth Rosenzweig
Toronto, Ontario
Monsieur Trudeau, you will always be loved and remembered not only by your family but your extended family "the people of Canada." Your mistakes will be forgotten because they were trigered by inspiring thoughts towards a greater Canada. Your pride, comittment and vision for Canada will always be remembered. As a little girl growing up in Montreal with your family just around the block from me, I was truly proud to be Canadian. You are in good hands now and may you rest in peace. God bless & genuine condolences from my family to yours.
From,
Bhajan Singh, Inderjeet Kaur, Jagbinder, Lavleen, Satjeevan, Gurleen, Jasjeet, Jasmeet and Jasminder Riar
Mr. Trudeau:
My only regret is to have been to young to appreciate your leadership
and your character as it bloomed. Nevertheless, I remain inspired by
your vision and character and aspire to emulate your presence and
conviction.
We live in a age where worthy icons are few and far between - you occupy
a pivotal place in our history and are a truly worthy. In life you made
a dramatic impact on our pride and nationhood. In passing, I pray that
our collective memory of you will buoy your legacy so Canada may
continue to grow in your vision of patriotism, achievement, inclusion
and compassion.
Rest in peace, Mr. Trudeau.
Steven West
As I sit at work today, with my Canadian Flag proudly displayed on my desk, listening intently to the radio, I find it increasingly difficult to concentrate on work.
My mind keeps reflecting beck to Pierre Trudeau and the very important legacy he is leaving behind. I was born in 1970, and do not remember Trudeaumania, or specific events in his career. Politics was not
important to me then. I do remember him as PM as I went through school, and who can ever forget the red rose?
He placed Canada on the world stage, which will be very evident by the presence of the world leaders, both past and present, at the service today. I cannot look at the service as a funeral, but as a celebration
of the life and accomplishments of this great man. He truly made a difference.
I thank him, as do many Canadians, for so many things. To me he was the ultimate Canadian, a true patriot through and through. He is one of the reasons I am so proud to stand up and say: "I AM
CANADIAN!"
My sympathies to those Mr Trudeau has left behind, but may you be comforted in knowing that so many share your grief, and that this person who has left you, has left a mark on the lives of so many people,
not only in Canada, but around the world. He will live forever in the memories of so many.
T. Hayden
Grand Falls-Windsor, Nf
In the 1860's the fathers of Confederation dreamed up a country named Canada and gave it life. A little over a 100 years later Pierre Elliot Trudeau gave Canada its soul.
I was born in Montreal in 1970. In a way I am a product of his vision, a proud bilingual Canadian. When I think back to my schooling days, specifically the history courses, I recall the differences
in the texts when, first, I studied in French school in Pointe-Claire and then in English schools where I lived in Ontario for three years and back in Montreal afterwards. The point of views on events
and facts seemed to conflict at times between the French and English versions. But what struck me the most was what was common between the two versions of history. What was Canada? In
short, a nation of provinces and territories. That's it! No identity, no meaning, essentially no soul. Pierre Elliot Trudeau gave Canada its soul. With the establishment of the Official Languages act,
the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the patriation of the Constitution, to name a few, he defined beyond lines on a map what Canada was. He gave us many reasons to be proud of this
country. Not to be proud just for historical moments like those during the first and second world wars, but to be proud of Canada day in and day out.
With his passing I feel a great loss. I feel that Canada has lost part of its heart.
But at the same time I feel proud to have lived during his time in office. I may have been young but I still remember. Today as with every other day I am proud to be Canadian. Thank you M.
Trudeau for having given me, us, reason to be proud of this country. Rest in peace, you've earned it.
Roger Paquette
Montreal
I now understand why you were so entertainingly arrogant and impatient with us at times. Your heart and mind were already in the new millennium and we were 40 years behind.
I still believe, Pierre, I still believe.
Patricia Szastkiw
Edmonton, Alberta
I grew up in Town of Mount Royal. I met Mr. Trudeau three times and those brief encounters have remained close to my heart for decades. His passion about this country made me proud to be a Canadian, a
feeling that I had never had before. To this day I cannot sing O Canada without getting a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes.
Thank you, Mr. Trudeau, for making me realize that I live in the best country in the world.
My sympathy goes to your family in these most difficult hours.
Gerrie Grevatt
West Dublin, Nova Scotia
Although most journalists and politicians describe Pierre Trudeau as a "complex" man, I have come to realize during the past several days
that the majority of Canadians (myself included) have a much clearer impression of him-a man who loved Canada dearly and who cared for all
Canadians, regardless of their background. His legacy will not be measured during his time in Ottawa but in the hearts of all Canadians! It
just goes to show you that the majority of Canadians are much more aware of the importance of Pierre Trudeau than most journalists and
politicians.
Once again, on behalf of all Canadians, thank you Pierre Elliott Trudeau for your undying love of Canada and for making
Canada the great nation it is today. Your memory will never fade!
Sincerely,
Richard Austin
I have been profoundly inspired by your shining example
of personal strength and conviction –
fueled by the courage to stand up for your beliefs,
and the dignity to stand up for yourself.
You sparked my imagination and stole my heart
when I was but a child – my first and forever hero.
Your glorious vision of our Canadian potential sparkled in your eyes
and lit a fire in our hearts.
Thank-you for believing in us,
Savannah Marie Kemp
Vancouver
I have tried to come up with the right words over the last few days but
Mr. Trudeau said it best in his June 1984 farewell speech at the Liberal
Leadership Convention.
"I went off with my fists in torn pockets; My coat was completely
Threadbare. I followed you, Muse, where you lead me, Dreamed of loves
-ah- so fine and so rare."
Canada has lost a true Ambassador.
Danya Porter
Calgary
I can't even write this without getting teary-eyed at work in the middle of
the day. We've lost a Canadian hero. And we will treasure his memory.
Diane L. Walton
As I've never properly understood the meaning of the term 'ironic' (Alanis?), I'm taking a leap of faith by fitting it here, but it seems
that there's many who seem to "hate" Trudeau and call him the "worst" Prime Minister Canada has ever seen, often because he had a habit of
taking from the rich (i.e. Alberta) and giving to the poor (i.e. the Atlantic Provinces) while thumbing his nose at those who stood to lose
from this (i.e. the rich)... When, in fact, the next prime minister who walked in (Brian Mulroney, in case you've forgotten) proceeded to
steal from everyone and keep for himself!
Please, spare me when you say that PET was the worst prime minister we've ever had. For, regardless of his quirks and weaknesses, we'd
still be considered a Nation of Pushovers had he never led Canada. I, myself, have little memories of the guy (being barely past my
mid-20's), but I know that he must have been SOMEBODY for everyone to react this emotionally. You shouldn't be blaming an ex-prime minister
personally because today's society is much more accepting of bilingualism, alternate lifestyles, ethnic diversity, etc. You should be
looking at yourself to see how "fuddle duddle" you really are.
My sympathies to Trudeau's family.
Glen Bourgeois
To the CBC,
It's almost impossible to add anything to the sentiments expressd so eloquently by do many people. But something is missing.
Born in the depression in a small town in Quebec, of immigrant parents, brought up in French town, and educated in English, I was privileged to experience the best of Quebec and of Pierre Trudeau.
It must be remembered that Pierre Trudeau was a product of the French classical education system which produced people such as Laurier, St. Laurent, Marchand, Pelletier, Levesque and Chretien. Dean Thompson, Head of the School of Graduate Studies of McGill University, said many years ago, that the English system of Education should take a page from the French system of education in its emphasis on the humanities. Mr. Trudeau's frequent response to hecklers was "go and read Plato."
His understanding of art, philosophy, history and religion certainly shaped his vision and his action. Now is the time to take heed of this in our mad dash towards technology and science at the expense of the human being in our approach to education right across our country.
Anne Robinson
Bulrington, Ontario
Canadians are universally labelled as unemotional, uninvolved, disinterested, placid and unpatriotic. Yet this past week it's clear that there is a universal feeling of a profound loss at the passing Pierre Trudeau. Why is that? Because he brought Canada into a new era. He was proud of our cultures. He was proud to be Canadian. He loved out country. He brought home our constitution and was single-handed responsible for the Charter of Rights the most significant and extensive piece of legislation in our history and in the most profound human rights charter in the world. Yes it is trite to
say that Trudeau was more of a father to Canada than the founding fathers.
In the U.S.A. part of popular culture is to say "where were you when J.F.K. was killed?" Well I am sure all Canadians will remember those "Trudeau years" and unfortunately will remember where they were the day our Pierre Trudeau died.
Peter Nadler
Vancouver, BC
What more can be said of this great man? Today as I speak of Pierre
Elliot Trudeau to my class of English Second Language students, the
words do not come easily. But my emotion does, and from this I can hope
my students will understand something of the impact this man has had on
Canadians.
Maryjanne Yusyp
Vancouver
Prime Ministers come and Prime Ministers go. They do their job and most do
not have an affect on you. I was born in 1948 and Pierre Elliott Trudeau
has been the only Prime Minister in my lifetime who has made me feel proud
to be a Canadian.
Larry Trudeau
Starbuck, Manitoba
I have spent my morning at work reading through the condolences that
have been left on the CBC web site and have added my own as well. 1968
was the first Federal Election that I was legally able to vote in and
Mr. Trudeau was the first person I ever voted for. Much has been
written about the electricity in the air when Pierre Trudeau came into
a room during that '68 campaign, and I don't think that magic ever left
him. Because of his great love of Canada, I have never been able to
ignore my duty to vote in any election and I have always been aware of
the privilege it has been to live in a democratic country, one in which
the people have the spirit of democracy and not just a democratic form
of government.
I am very thankful to him for the country that I live in now; one that
truly strives on behalf of all its citizens. I am very thankful that
Mr. Chretien is our current Prime Minister; it has been wonderful to
watch him and his wife comfort Pierre's sons throughout their public
ordeal. I am very thankful to his sons and his family for allowing me
to share their grief and for CBC and the Canadian Government for
allowing me to share my thoughts with other Canadians. I saw
condolences from several friends when I was reading through them this
morning so I know that many share my sadness in his death.
Pierre shaped my beliefs in my country more than anyone else and his
ideals will remain alive in my heart as long as I live. I feel that I
have lost a dear, dear friend with his passing and I will always miss
him.
Sincerely,
Judith Sharp
Yellowknife, NT
I was brought up in a Southwestern Manitoba Farm Community. Very much a PC community, therefore politically Trudeau (has he was called) was
not very popular. I was in senior High School when the October crisis hit. Our home room teacher was a French Canadian, fresh a career in
the armed forces (his first teaching assignment). I recall some serious debate every day during that time with him.
I graduated from
college in 1974 and confronted wage controls in 1975. I have had to study the impacts of our Charter of Rights and how it impacts Municipal
Government. Mr Trudeau has had a big impact in my life. I recall being at the Commonwealth Games Track events in Edmonton in 1978. It was
the day The Queen made her official visit. Dianne Jones won a gold metal in track Mr Trudeau arrived with his son after the event has
started and sat several rows back to take in the event. The next day the papers read that the Brits where annoyed that the Prime Minister
of Canada had upstaged the Queen, some bit of Royal protocol had been breached by him. As our Aussue friends would say "good on ya mate"
was how I felt for him that day. I was proud of him as a Canadian.
God Bless the memory of a truly great Canadian.
Gary Hanna
I shared Mr. Trudeau's passion for the Canada of his vision. A Canada that
includes each citizen, not only in number but in fact; for each citizen
brings: their heritage, their beliefs and their dreams. I have only to look
at my family to see the history of Canada. My father's family was one of
early Newfoundland, my mother's helped build the locks at Peterborough
before migrating to Alberta. My parents met in Prince Rupert, during the
war,, married in Edmonton, lived in Halifax before finally settling in
Calgary. My daughter is a Native Canadian, proud of her culture and history.
My brother and I are both adopted – who do we say we are other than
Canadian?
All those people who became so upset when French became a language to learn
and use might just stop and consider my experience at a wedding recently.
The bride is American, the groom Algerian – his family spoke only French. It
has been long while since I've had the opportunity to speak French, but I
thought I owed them the effort. The smiles on their faces, and their
understanding as I searched for the right words served to underscore the
opportunity I've had to learn enough of another language to make a stranger
feel more at home.
A friend of mine who immigrated to this country as a child always said that
his children went to "Prime Minister" school: i.e.: French Immersion. There
is no doubt in anyone's mind to whom he referred.
Yours truly,
Frances C. Yancey
On Friday afternoon I sat unusually still for several hours, compelled to
the radio-side, listening to fellow Canadians as they shared their feelings
and experiences of Trudeau's life and death. Hearing so many different
voices united by one man's life and vision moved me to tears and made me
proud to be a part of this beautiful and great country.
After 2 hours of listening to CBC radio and doing nothing else, I started to
become restless, feel guilty for not 'doing' something. That is when I
realized, as I have realized at each of the few opportunities I have had to
go to weddings and funerals, that there are few events in our own lives, and
even fewer events in the world that make us stop as individuals and as a
collective, to contemplate profoundly, the past, present and future.
I was born in 1970 and have grown up during the era of increased self-focus
and information-bombardment. I, like all of us, have become numb to the
deaths and tragedies that occur by the minute all around us; unfortunately
this reaction has been a necessary adaptation. Fortunately, Trudeau's death
has effectively penetrated our numb layers and made us all stop like we have
not stopped in a long time. It reminds me of when Elvis Presley and John
Lennon died. As a kid, it seemed like the whole world stopped for an
extended moment to unite through these commonly-experienced tragedies. At
the time I could not REALLY understand why everyone was so personally upset.
It seemed like a time of simplicity and innocence from my small view, and
certainly I never expected to experience anything comparable in my own life,
especially over a politician. I am thankful for the experience and now
understand what I did not as a kid.
As sad as the occasion is, it is a wonderful moment, now that we have all
stopped being so busy, to contemplate what this great man and his actions
meant and mean to us. We have the opportunity to consider and decide what is
important to us as a country, now and for the future. I hope that through
his passing we all learn to be better people, to let his life be an example
of the greatness we can achieve, and to make a difference in our country and
the world we share. If anything, it has become evident, through the radio
anyway, that Canadians respect and want to be lead by individuals with
courage, strength, passion, culture, intelligence, wit...and a vision of the
greater good. So, politicians, managers, bosses...everyone, take heed!
Perhaps we will have another Remembrance Day added to our year, represented
by another kind of red flower (hopefully not the plastic felt kind). Instead
of making it a day off, we could work extra hard on that day to honour and
perpetuate in ourselves and others, the qualities that we all admired in
Trudeau!
With sympathy and hope, yours truly,
Tanya Dowdall
Rocky Harbour, NF
P.S. Special thanks to CBC for providing us with a national forum.
Thank you for this opportunity to share some thoughts about a terrific
leader.
I grew up listening and participating in discussions about this
controversial leader. My older brother loved him, my dad did not. But
overall, at the end of each lively kitchen table debate, we all
respected him and were excited about his next move.
My girlfriend, Linda Bishop and I were discussing the funeral and how
even this would have pleased the late Mr. Trudeau. People paying their
last respects were told that the doors on Parliament Hill would be left
open for as long as needed. That was doing the right thing. As Linda
put it, "Mr. Trudeau's funeral reflects what he put in place for
Canada; we are not constrained by doing things right, but liberated by
doing the right thing." How lucky we are to have fellow Canadians who
wish to focus more on doing the right thing than anything else.
Finally thank you to Mr. Trudeau's family for sharing these final
moments with Canada.
Ljubica Pelletier
I recall being only 6 years old when my Aunt (whom I adored) excitedly told
everyone how she had met Mr. Trudeau, how he shook her hand, how the photo
that was taken of this special moment during a local Liberal convention was later
autographed. And every day that I visited her that framed photo proudly adorned
her front hallway.
Still, I can't explain the loss and the pain I felt (and continue to feel) when I heard of
his death, myself having just returned from Montreal that day on business. Nor can I
explain why I would feel this way for a man I had never known let alone met. It
seemed as if he were immortal, ready to come to Canada's defence at any time,
whenever the so-called leaders of the day would dare to destroy his vision and
threaten the country's unity.
At the very least, his self-confidence, brilliance, commitment, and willingness to stand
up and be counted makes him truly Canada's greatest citizen. I only wish that I had the privilege to meet him so that I could have felt that same excitement that my Aunt felt more than 30 years ago.
My family's prayers are with his family. He had a very full life, it would seem, and his
life's work made a difference to so many, and will continue to do so.
May he rest in peace.
Sincerely,
Michael George,
Saint John, NB
You gave us a true identity, that of being Canadian.
You created a society that accepts people from all nations, yet allows
them to keep their culture, language and traditions.
You gave us two official languages, the Charter, our Constitution. You
showed the people of this country how to fight for and achieve equality
and justice for all. You taught us how to be proud of our country, the
best in the world.
I loved your sense of values, strength of character and consistency of
what is right. I am sorry I was never able to shake your hand and thank
you for what you accomplished for this country, but I am sure the
Creator knows how I feel.
Your two sons will carry that with them and follow in your footsteps. I
know that they will always be proud to carry your name.
When I was watching the 2000 Olympics, on the last day, a Nigerian born,
Canadian wrestler won a Gold Medal. He stood, danced around the
Canadian Flag, then knelt down and kissed it, in honour of what this
country has given him. He stood there, beaming with pride and saying "I
am proud to be Canadian." It was a fitting tribute to you, Pierre Elliot Trudeau.
You also set a strong example of what a parent and good father should
be. You are a true Canadian. God bless you and your family.
Iretia Cox
Probley the most thing I admired about P.E.T. was his intellect! I liked the comments of Former Pres. Jimmey Carter, and the way Trudeau explained how other countries felt about the middle east, and other things the new president
would find helpful! You knew Trudeau could talk to any world leader, and not only hold his own, but could rise above them in terms of intellect and knowledge!
They say Richard Nixon was one of the most intellegent if not the most
intellegent presidents ever. But you get the feeling that if someone suggested a debate between the two, Pierre would have jumped at the idea with glee! And without any advice, or preparation, would have headed to Washington in his
sports car, and not only hold his own against Trickey Dick, but would have Nixon wimpering for checkers!
Richard Greenfield
Pierre Elliott Trudeau was elected Prime Minister when I was 13 years old.
My parents had taken me to Expo '67 the summer before. The exuberance of
our centennial year in '67 followed by the election of our young, energetic
and flamboyant Prime Minister all swirls together in my memory as a time of
giddy nationalistic pride and fervor. I loved it. I diligently cut out
articles in the paper about the Prime Minister, thinking in the back of my
mind that someday they would be of value. They are valuable to me now, and
I am amazed that at such a young age I sensed that there was something very
special about this man.
Years later, in the early 80's, Mr. Trudeau had a short stopover in Winnipeg
and spoke to a group of liberal supporters in a local school gymnasium. Our
whole family attended and my mother, who was an ardent Trudeau fan, made her
way through the crowd hoping to be able to shake his hand. She managed to
reach him and after shaking his hand she just beamed with pride. We all
teased her saying, "She won't wash her hand for a week now!"
We were filled with Canadian pride too when my parents went to Europe in the
80's. Our relatives in Belgium and France went on and on about how much
they admired and respected Pierre Elliott Trudeau. They felt he was the
most charming and eloquent representative of Canada that they had ever seen.
A true diplomat!
I, like many, somehow felt that he would live forever as our standard bearer
for a just, peaceful and multi-cultural society. I hoped that whenever
necessary he would step in from time to time to remind us that we should act
with reason and not make rash decisions that could undermine our great
country. Even his daily presence as a citizen of Montreal seemed to speak
volumes of his love for this country.
It is the end of an era. His politics and beliefs helped shape my life as a
Canadian citizen. I will miss the man and all that he stood for. I would
like to express my condolences to his family, for though we feel a great
loss as a nation, their loss is even greater.
Denise Carriere
Winnipeg, Manitoba
1968 was the first time in my life that I became politically active, I was 10 years old and worked for Mr. Trudeau. This man woke up Canadians. Single handed he brought Canadian politics out of the old boys club image of the thirties and forties. He put the world on notice that Canada is here, and the world noticed. Canada is still a big player on the world stage thanks to the seeds which he planted in Canadians. As with many Canadians I have now a void in my life, I never thought this day would come. I guess we thought he was immortal. I am filled with grief, and I am trying to explain to my children why and how great this man was. Mr Trudeau made it cool to be Canadian and that is still true today.
Kyle Esser
Farewell to the greatest Canadian ever.
We always admired and loved you.
Always in our hearts and forever in Canadian history.
Ilse & Hans Priebe
Edmonton, Alberta
How sad to watch this funeral train making it's way to Montreal on what
would have been Michel Trudeau's 25th birthday.
Fred Pattje
I find it disturbing that so many people, who never knew the man, and especially the ones that were critical of him, are suddenly so emotional in mourning the passing of Trudeau. Yes he was a strong, influential Prime Minister, much like our current one is.
It's sad to realize that Chretien will receive, from his critics, more respect and admiration when he's dead, than he does now, when he's alive.
I would like all these mourning people to realize that, appreciate a person's actions while they are actually alive, and stop living vicariously through the death of another.
Jim Derhouse
Cornerbrook, NF
On April 6, 1968, Pierre Elliot Trudeau was elected leader of the Canadian
Liberal Party. On April 6, 1968, I was born.
I was too young to remember Trudeaumania. I did not live it directly, but I certainly did experience it
personally. Through my father, I came to know the man that would become a
Canadian legend. Thanks to my father's belief in Trudeau's vision, I became
a Canadian of the Trudeau vision: a bilingual Quebecoise and Canadian, and
proud of it.
The man may now be gone, but he lives on forever, through those who lived
with him and those who live more richly because of him, as I feel I do. It
is now up to us – the Trudeau generation – to reclaim the dream he dared to
dream and to make it our own.
Let us carry the rose into the future of Canada – our future. We can do it. Just watch us!
Kariann Aarup
Montreal
It is with great sadness that this letter is written. The members of my family, including myself, have admired, respected, and held fondness for Pierre Elliot Trudeau throughout the years. He was a charismatic man, a visionary leader,
and a quintessential Canadian. He was human, yet had already reached a certain level of immortality in the minds of many. His legacy lives on, but he will most definitely be missed.
Lorraine Soo
Montreal
I just returned from Ottawa after paying my last respects to our former
Prime Minister. I thought the folks on Parlament Hill did a wonderful job
helping the thousands of people lined up to say goodbye find their way to
the coffin.
When the news first broke that Mr. Trudeau had died, all levels of
Government in most parts of the country were quick to lower the Canadian
flag. However, the separtist government in Quecbec waited until the
afternoon of the next day to lower theirs. And even then I thought they
were doing it begrudgingly. Even in death, Lucien Bouchard finds it
difficult to give Pierre Trudeau his due.
Rick Nelson
Kingston, Ontario
Each succeeding newscast I've heard since Mr. Trudeau's passing kept
adding a new achievement of his. I knew the standard ones – the FLQ
crisis, the Official Languages Act, the patriation of the Constitution –
but had forgotten his Cuba visit, his early recognition of China, the
metric system. I now fully accept the verdict of the "Times" of London, declaring him as the greatest Canadian of the 20th century: it took a foreigner
to say boldly what we should be saying ourselves about the impact this
man has had on Canada. He has also been hailed as the person who
defeated terrorism in Canada, wow!
It is a measure of our constant self-deprecation that Trudeau has been
continuously humbled by us as we have tended to humble ourselves. In
light of the incredible universal reaction to his passing, let us all
rejoice in both his achievements and ours, for they are so intertwined.
Over the years, many called him our Kennedy; this morning, a historian
likened him to Lincoln; Churchill is another who comes to mind as a
vigorous comparison. Trudeau's immense inspiration and energy will
continue to spur us to be the active participants in the international
community he would have wanted us to be.
John Montgomerie of Bridgetown
Nova Scotia
Since M. Trudeau died, I have been glued to my TV mourning the loss of an incredible politician and visionary with the rest of the country. Until recently, I did not understand the impact that he and his policies
had on my life. As a young Quebecoise growing up in the 80s, my history books taught me to dislike M. Trudeau for his actions during the FLQ Crisis and for his unrealistic vision of Canada and of linguistic
rights. This has changed. As I started to hang out with friends from other provinces, I realized just how much we have in common and yet how little we know of each other. My pride in Canada and my pride
in who I am has increased. In the CBC reruns of Trudeau's political life, I see fire in his eyes like no other politician or person I have ever known. He believed in Canada, he believed in bilingualism, and
most of all, he believed in people like me. People who want to live their lives in both languages, who understand francophone and anglophone cultures, and who want to live without having to apologize. M.
Trudeau wanted bilingual, multi-cultural citizens to feel "at home" in all parts of Canada. While I am not sure this has been achieved, I can be certain that his vision has had reverberations across the land.
Just when I started to feel isolated and alone in my mourning as a new citizen of Alberta, I met an older Calgarian today who feels as I do. There is hope.
Danielle Belanger
We will miss you forever Mr. Trudeau.
Riposati in pace...
Mark Anthony Cupido
I was born in Montreal and was raised in Jasper, Alberta and I heard a lot of negative things during my highscool days in Jasper about the
man, but I always stood my ground with those people.
If there was one thing I use to say and I will continue saying, He is Canadian, 100
percent, and you can't take that away from him. He has given me the
pride to say I'm Canadian and he did not separate west from east, and I
just wish people could appreciate what he tried to do for this country
and I am proud to be able to say he was my Prime Minister and no
American can take that away from me.
Macdonald, make some room on that ten dollar bill, because here comes Trudeau, may you rest in peace and may God give your children strength to go on, you will be missed.
With admiration,
Olga Moraitis
Last night my kids, 9 and 11, listened as I listened to the coverage of
Trudeau's death on CBC and asked "who is the Trudeau guy, anyway?"
I was so surprized that someone who I think of as the quintessential Canadian
leader was unknown to my kids. My kids are in French immersion schools,
probably because I absorbed Trudeau's vision of a bilingual country as I
grew up while he was Prime Minister. As I talked with my children, I
realized that they had no idea about any other aspects of Canadian
history and politics which is a passion of
mine, other than the War of 1812.
Aside from the current Prime Minister, the only Canadian Prime
Minister that they could name was Lester B. Pearson, and that is
because they attend a school named in his honour! Sadly, political
leaders have increasingly resorted to relying on slogans, minute-long sound
clips, and photo ops rather than passion, vision, and leadership.
Canadian history, distant and recent, is obviously not a feature of
current Ontario elementary education.
Diane Duff
As a rose, he was a flower that led the Canadian people away from the thorny periods of our nationhood.
Trudeau will be remembered and enshrined in our hearts forever.
Sem. Romeo Tolentino, Toronto
A question on the news last week asked if Canadians thought Pierre Trudeau should be put on the $20.00 bill. I think this should be done because now that Trudeau is dead, Canadians can remember him well this way. He was a Canadian cultural icon and
needs to be fondly remembered.
If you think this is a good idea, you can see what the Royal Canadian Mint thinks of it.
Thanks,
Michael Hambrook
When I was a young woman in Toronto, I got caught up in the "Trudeaumania"
of 1968. Having never been particularly interested in politics or government
until then, Mr. Trudeau managed to awaken an awareness in me, that
politicians could be real people, and that my country mattered. For that I
thank him.
My mother has been a Trudeau fan throughout his career, and followed his
words and actions even after he formally left the public life.
Consequently, four years ago when she was approaching her 90th birthday, I wanted to do something special for her.
Letters from the Governor General or current Prime Minister would have been appropriate, but I got a notion that she would really love a message from her " Pierre."
My family & I went to work to find out his office address, and I duly sent a letter to him, telling him of my Mother's interest in his life and career, and asking him if he would
consider sending her a message in celebration of her birthday, even though
he was no longer in public office.
Almost by return mail, it seemed, I received a lovely little note signed by him, offering his congratulations on reaching her 90th year.
She still treasures that letter and has it framed proudly on her bookcase for all to see. I sincerely appreciated his kindness in this small act.
Canada has truly lost a great man with his passing.
Jill Suffolk
Black Creek, B.C.
M. Trudeau entered my consciousness when I was only 7 years old and my father took me to a rally in the parking lot of the Avalon Mall in St John's, Newfoundland, during the "original" Trudeaumania campaign. I remembered being boosted
onto my father's shoulders, straining to catch a glimpse of this man, of the "Man who would be King" and I remember being heartbroken when, after the rally ended, I had lost my "Trudeau sign" which I had previously been holding.
This week, I lost my Trudeau sign a second time: For M. Trudeau was a living breathing symbol to us all of what we can achieve as Canadians when we strive to achieve great things. He was not perfect, and in the end, this "philosopher king"
showed us his frailty and his mortality. I cried on Thursday when I learned of his death. I will cry again.
Walter Heneghan
Edmonton
In 1968, I was 10 years old. I remember riding in the car on a family trip
to visit my grandparents in Nanaimo, B.C., at about the time that Mr. Trudeau's
campaign was visiting Vancouver Island. There was graffiti spray painted
everywhere along the highway. The train trestle at Chase River had huge red
lips and the repeated the message: "KISS ME PIERRE." My mother explained
it was a message for our next Prime Minister.
Having grown up experiencing the profound greatness of this man's vision,
and acknowledging the fierce love he had for Canada, I know that message was
received.
Sylvia L. Park
Chemainus, BC
Goodbye, Mr. Trudeau. Canadians from shore to shore honour your memory. You rocked us and calmed us, but above all, you made us all mighty proud to call Canada our homeland.
Wendy G. Prince
Calgary
Love him or not Mr Trudeau was a great Canadian. His quick wit
and fuddle duddles will be missed by us all.
Our sympathies go out to his family and collegues.
The Scott Family
Sherwood Park, AB
I was born the year after Trudeau was elected. My whole life, my
vision and love of Canada has been shaped by his own. I feel deeply
saddened by the loss. I believed in his intellect and leadership and I
have looked for it in our government ever since. If only we could demand
accomplishment and vision from our government today. His work made it
possible for me to believe in our federalism and be proud of our bilingualism. Reason and passion is our very best combined characteristic.
Jennifer Fisher
Vancouver
Pierre Trudeau gave the post-war generation, the early boomers,
a passion for politics. He showed that politics was not the preserve of
the dull, the staid, the cautious. And even though Canadian politics has
returned to those conditions under subsequent leaders, we who lived
throught the Trudeaumania years know things can be different.
Eleanor Cox
Ottawa
He first became Prime Minister before I was born, and left office while I
was still in my teens, yet he helped shape who I am today.
He is the reason I speak both English and French. He is the reason I
measure things in centimetres, rather than inches, and kilometres rather
than miles. It is largely because of his example that I value an individual's rights over
the opinions of the majority.
So much of what occurs in my daily life, things I take for granted, stem
from his work. But beyond that, he inspired me as a young person, as a
woman, and as a Canadian. He taught me to love and defend my country, and
showed me by example that the most important thing of all is to be true to
oneself. He will never be forgotten.
Mary Kate
I am 29 years old and Pierre Elliot Trudeau is an elemental part of my political consciousness. His person and his accomplishments are monuments to a commitment to tolerance, a respect for the dignity of the individual, and a
profound disregard for the narrow, self-interested parochialisms that rend us still. He was a politician, and like all politicians he made mistakes; some were profound and far-reaching. But unlike most politicians, he acted with courage
and leavened the "sham and drudgery" of political life with idealism and hope. Today, a nation's eyes are lonely indeed.
Hoi Kong
Montreal
I was a teenager growing up on the west coast of B.C. when Trudeau was
Prime Minister. My identity and pride as a Canadian were deeply
influenced by Trudeau's vision and independence of thought from the
incessant pressures of the U.S.'s reactionary politics and business. I
was proud that Canada was a haven for draft dodgers from the U.S., that
Trudeau travelled to China and broke its isolation from the west, that
Canada had both a French and an English identity, that we had universal
health care and strong social programs, that the vast majority of
Canadians rejected racist and right-wing religious fundamentalism of all
types, and that we strove for a more "just society," as Trudeau taught.
After the Charter of Rights and Freedoms was adopted, I remember proudly
telling some U.S. women I had met that Canadian women now had their
rights entrenched, a feat they could not reach in the U.S. with the
Equal Rights Amendment and still haven't attained to this day. When
people say Canadians have no national identity, they lie. We have a
deeply held set of beliefs, many of which were largely shaped by Lester
Pearson, Tommy Douglas and Pierre Elliott Trudeau.
My Canadian identity is deeply rooted in Trudeau's teachings and I
believe he was our greatest Prime Minister. A state funeral must be held
and is crucial at this time, because Canadians need to express our
indebtedness to this great man and to tell our young people in this new
millennium about the roots of Canadian identity.
Barbara Sherman
Vancouver
For the last few hours I have sat at my desk and read the coverage of Trudeau's death. On this grey coastal day, I grieve with the same intensity that I felt when cancer claimed my mother's life nearly three years ago.
Perhaps this is not so strange; in many ways Canada has lost a parent, a part of its soul. Even after he retired from politics, somehow, simply knowing that he was there was comforting.
Despite his mishandling of native issues, the infamous Wage and Price controls, and the ever contentious FLQ Crisis, Trudeau will be remembered above all for his unflinching leadership and his vision of a "Just Society." He epitomizes
what might have been. This is a time for self-reflection in Canada, the moment to consider our identity as a people, and to consider what the future might hold.
It is an ironic and moving testament to the memory of a remarkable leader that Canadians, from East to West, collectively mourn Trudeau's passing. Perhaps in death, he will finally succeed in unifying the nation that he so passionately loved.
"Rock me gently ocean deep, for I'm coming home."
Sonja Reid
Victoria
Definitively Trudeau! This individual defined Canada. Hate him
or love him, we have all been molded by his clear cut views of morality and
justice.
He gave us a Constitution which we still have not come to grips
with. He gave us an international image that far outweighs our numerical,
economical or military size. He gave us bilingualism. He challenged our politicians to think, and the populace to think with him.
Did we agree with him on everything? No, we did not. Do we agree with the direction he gave us as Canadians? We are still struggling with the choices he gave us.
We all do know that we were proud to have him as our leader when he met
at international summits. We were proud of his confidence when he disagreed
with repressive policies of powerful countries. We were proud of his
willingness to fight when he obviously was not the leader of the most
powerful country of the world. And we were proud when other leaders
listened to him because he had thought through the issues.
We will mourn this man, but Canada's history will continue to be written by Mr. Trudeau's legacy.
My condolences to his family.
Edward Garbitt
Ottawa
I can't help but feel like I woke up in a different Canada this
morning. For me, Pierre Trudeau was an inspiration. He was our
philosopher king, he was our dreamer.
What I respected most about
Trudeau was that he was willing to risk making mistakes in an attempt to
achieve greatness for Canada. He was a unique modern leader because his
love for Canada and his desire to make positive change for Canadians
outweighed the urge to compromise in order to appease all and maintain
power. For me, it seemed that his major decisions were based less on
polls and focus group surveys – and more on his intellectual reasoning
and passion for Canada. His death yesterday saddened me because his
presence had always served as a reminder of what passionate Canadians
can achieve.
Even to those who didn't agree with many of his policy
decisions, he stood as an example of what a great leader is. Someone
who takes risks, someone who thinks deeply, someone who wants to
accomplish great things for the good of all, someone who loves life,
someone who inspires. I read a quote somewhere that said that it is
funny how the world can seem so empty when just one person is missing
from it. That's how I felt when I read the newspaper this morning –
like Canada seemed so empty. But I know, that the world is unfolding as
it should. My hope is that Trudeau's legacy will inspire my generation
to achieve greatness.
Karli Farrow
Toronto
Enough already! He was rude, crude, arrogant, and obnoxious. Keep your
love affair east of the Ontario border where it belongs. Certainly if
he did any good it was there. In Trudeau fashion I speak it as I see
it. I cannot think of one positive thing to say about the man. He
single handedly did more to divide us than anyone before or since.
Wesley Steed
Taber Alberta
I remember coming back from days off when I worked for Parks Canada near the
Columbia Icefield. We lived in a road camp at Tangle Creek. I went into
our common dining room and sat down. Immediately, everyone shouted at me
"you can't sit in that chair! Why not? Because Pierre sat there. Look
here's the beer bottle he drank out of."
Pierre had climbed Mt. Athabasca near the Columbia Icefield in Jasper
National Park. At the end of the day, after his climb, he came to Tangle
Creek Camp where all the Parks Canada staff lived. He drank a beer and mingled with the staff and chatted. That beer bottle and that chair represented to all of us the magic, the charismatic personality, ant the energy and passion we had for our country. I will miss him.
Elise Maltin
Iqaluit, Nunavut
I was an American going to school at Queen's when he came into
power. Even when I disagreed with him, I acknowledged his commitment to
Canada and the world, his vision, and his depth. I also recognized that
his occasional pokes at the elephant next door strengthened long-term
US-Canadian relations. Canada and the world is poorer with his passing.
Ron Brown
Melrose, MA USA
As a child growing up in Montreal in the early seventies, I knew Pierre E. Trudeau as the "Father of Canada." My parents admired and respected him, as did I. After school, my friends and I would travel on our bikes to his house in hopes of
seeing him. We did, on one occasion, meet him, walking towards us with two brown paper bags of groceries, we waved and jumped around in amazement as he approached us. He set his bags down to sit on the curb with us to spend what
seemed like an eternity talking. I remember being thrilled at his comment of the '29' on my Montreal Canadiens shirt. As an 8-year-old, this had a profound impact and is a moment that I will never forget. In many ways, I feel his impact in
my life to this day. For me, his sense of passion, strength and vision is the embodiment of Canada.
Monsieur Trudeau, I wear a red rose on my lapel for you today.
Chris J. Côté
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