AND I QUOTE

He set the Toronto Star on a path that led it to being at the top of Canadian journalism, focused on investigative reporting, excellence and fairness. As well, he was a first-class person and honourable in all that he did. That is a fabulous legacy.

TORSTAR CO-OWNERS JORDAN BITOVE AND PAUL RIVETT

John saw a fairer society. It’s true he ‘goaded, cajoled, harangued’ Torontonians to be better — politicians, too. A very good man.

FORMER ONTARIO PREMIER KATHLEEN WYNNE

John loved and defended journalism and the Star with all he was, and he was considerable. A towering, towering figure.

FORMER EDITOR AND TORSTAR VP IRENE GENTLE

There are very few individuals who are so intimately connected to this place we love — or who have taken so wholeheartedly a hand in improving its fortunes and addressing its failures.

— UNITED WAY OF GREATER TORONTO

So hard to absorb the terrible news of John Honderich’s death. He was so vital, larger than life, always engaged, curious, talented, fun.

— LIFELONG FRIEND ARLENE PERLY RAE

A giant in the landscape of journalism and Canada’s battle of ideas, John gave voice to Star founder Joe Atkinson’s progressive principles every day.

— ONTARIO NDP LEADER ANDREA HORWATH