The community of Orillia gathered at St. Paul's Centre Sunday to mourn the loss of their beloved favourite son, Gordon Lightfoot.
Fans, family, and friends from all over Ontario, Canada, and the United States lined up for hours outside the church entrance, braving a brief rain shower while paying their respects to the renowned singer/songwriter at the seven-hour-long public service.
As a tribute to Lightfoot's iconic song about the Edmund Fitzgerald, St. Paul's Centre tolled its bell 30 times, honouring the memory of the sailors lost and the man who immortalized their tragic fate on Lake Superior 48 years ago. Lightfoot, aged 84, passed away from natural causes in a Toronto hospital on May 1.
The impact of Lightfoot, both as a person and a musician, was immeasurable for the hundreds of mourners who lined the streets of Orillia to bid farewell to the folk legend. His songs resonated with people on a personal level, as he often incorporated local themes and Indigenous history into his music.
For many, Lightfoot's music was the soundtrack of their youth, evoking cherished memories and moments shared with friends and family.
Rick Haynes, Lightfoot's longtime bassist, recognized the profound impact the late musician had on Orillia. Haynes described Lightfoot as a humble and engaging individual who genuinely cared for others and always made time for them.
Video summary:
Fans, family, and friends of Canadian music legend Gordon Lightfoot gathered from all over the continent to attend his visitation in Orillia this past Sunday. OrilliaMatters reporter Greg McGrath-Goudie was present at St. Paul's Centre to capture the emotions and heartfelt goodbyes during the visitation, which drew more than 2,400 people who came to pay their respects to Orillia's favourite son.
Lightfoot had a profound impact on the attendees, evoking a mixture of sadness and admiration.
Many attendees shared personal connections and stories about Gordon Lightfoot. One woman, who had gone to school with Lightfoot and was a year younger than him, recalled their time together in a group called "The Two Tones."
Another attendee, a promoter from Minnesota, attributed his successful career to Lightfoot's influence and even wrote a book about his promoting career, which Lightfoot supported. There was also a gentleman from Cambridge who had gone on canoe trips with Lightfoot for several years. These stories reflected the impact Lightfoot had on people's lives, whether through his music, personal connections, or inspiring journeys.
Gordon Lightfoot's impact on his hometown of Orillia was profound and enduring. Unlike many famous musicians, Lightfoot consistently paid homage to his roots and remained connected to the city throughout his career. He generously donated the proceeds from concerts to causes such as Soldiers' Memorial Hospital, and he began his career as a choirboy at St. Paul's Centre. Lightfoot's desire to be buried in his hometown further emphasized his strong ties to Orillia.
