For many Canadians, Jack Layton will be remembered as a regular guy and terrific political leader admired by many.
In a letter to Canadians penned just hours before his death from cancer early Monday, Layton wrote: Tens of thousands of Canadians have written to me in recent weeks to wish me well. I want to thank each and every one of you for your thoughtful, inspiring and often beautiful notes, cards and gifts. Your spirit and love have lit up my home, my spirit, and my determination.
Since hearing of his death, condolences and tributes have poured in from across the country. Many have been inspired by what he wrote in his letter. Here is a sampling of some of those who commented on Globalnews.ca.
RIP Jack. Words are difficult to find to express the sorrow that is being felt by all Canadians … Canada has lost a champion today. Your passion for a “fairer, more equal country” will long be remembered & will become the bar against which others will be measured in the future. Blessings and peace.
Maria Unrau
I didn’t agree with his political view, but I always found him to be a great leader he built the NDP into the official opposition! I greatly respect him as a man who was driven by his beliefs. Canada will not be the same without him. My heart goes out to his wife and kids and all who knew him and loved him.
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Curd Hos
You fought a hard battle, in your personal life and your political life!! We thank you Jack Layton for all you did and tried to do for Canadians. Rest in Peace and please keep advising your party from heaven!!
Tracie
Rest In Sweet Heavenly Peace Jack. I will forever hold in my heart the kindness you showed me when I was a young girl. You opened your home to me until another home could be found for me. I am going to miss you. You have been a great inspiration in my life. Much Love, Honor and Respect. Deepest Condolences to Jack’s family. Will hold you in my prayers.
Ramona Adams
I really liked Jack Layton, as a personable, sincere man, who led his Party and was the integral force of the NDP. Without him at the helm, I fear that support for his party will diminish greatly. All Canadians will mourn his passing. R.I.P., Jack! You will live on in our memories: FOREVER.
Dudley Wong
Such sad and shocking news…Jack accomplished so so much in the last year, brought success to his party and changed the course of Canadian politics. His work is left unfinished and his shoes will be hard to fill. Condolences to his family on this sad day.
Leah
OMG, I am in shock, did not know him personally, but his death has affected me, he was such a sociable, easy to relate politician, will be missed by all.
Johanne Arial
I never paid alot of attention to Canadian politics. Never voted until this year, commin from a family split one side conservative the other liberal i didnt care much for either. However this year was different, i stayed ontop of it all, and started fallowing the NDP very close. Jack Layton was a great man and certainly helped change Canadain politics, or atleast the veiws of many of my generation. Jack Layton is a great man, with love for many, he did an amazing job and will be greatly missed by a nation. Thank you Jack. Rest in Peace
Derek
My condolences to Mr. Layton’s family. This is the loss of a great Canadian and it is to be hoped his work will be carried on as he envisioned
Roberta Wrightson
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