IN THEIR WORDS
“We lost one of the very best of us this morning ... Our buddy Gord, who loved this country with everything he had, and not just loved it in a nebulous ‘Oh, I love Canada way,’ he loved every hidden corner, every story, every aspect of this country that he celebrated his whole life. He wanted to make it better, he knew as great as we were we need to be better than we are. That’s why this last year’s been devoted to Chanie Wenjack and to reconciliation. This is something I’ve certainly drawn inspiration and strength from. We are less as a country without Gord Downie ... It hurts.” A tearful Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
“I think they should really consider it, I really do. I think he matters that much to Canadians.” Conservative MP Tony Clement calling on the government to consider a state funeral for Downie
“Gord’s writing, voice, music, dancing and genuine energetic talent in service of us all will be vital forever in our national, common emotional core.” Actor Dan Aykroyd
“Canada has lost one of its bright stars. He will be missed but not forgotten.” Gordon Lightfoot
“It was a privilege to witness Gord Downie’s creative genius, he was such a force in the Canadian music industry.” Musician Sarah McLachlan
“Thank you for the music, kindness and perseverance. What an amazing human being.” Musician Randy Bachman
“Husband, father, poet, activist, icon and fearless performer, Gord Downie, has passed. Thank you for inspiring so many with a life well-lived.” Alberta band Nickelback
“You fought the good fight, Gord. You didn’t go gentle into that good night. Your words and music will shine on — peace.” Musician Tom Cochrane
“Gord often said he was struck by that story and he couldn’t let go of it.” Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler on Downie’s “Secret Path” project that honoured 12-year-old Chanie Wenjack, who died in 1966 after running away from a residential school
“Our hearts break on news of the passing of Wicapi Omani, ‘Walks Among the Stars,’ Gord Downie, an ally and friend.” Assembly of First Nations National Chief Perry Bellegarde
“He put it so rightly when he said we’ve got 150 years behind us to learn from and 150 years ahead of us and we better just get to work.” Crown-Indigenous Relations Minister Carolyn Bennett.
“Heartbroken today. Few Canadians touched this country like Gord Downie. Thank you for everything you gave us. My deepest condolences.” Former NHLer Doug Gilmour
“Canada and the world have lost a true icon. Rest in peace, Gord Downie. You inspired a nation.” Sprinter Donovan Bailey
“(Downie’s) music and love for hockey will echo through arenas forever.” NHL tweet
“Another brilliant, wonderful soul is gone. Deepest condolences to the family. RIP Gord. Thank you for everything you gave us.” Mike Smith, who played Bubbles on Trailer Park Boys
“I wish that someday, maybe just for one day, I can be as kind as you were always, effortlessly.” Actor Dave Foley