The following statement was issued by Neil Lumsden, Ontario’s minister of tourism, culture and sport at a concert celebrating the music of Gordon Lightfoot Saturday night at the Orillia Opera House:
I join with all Ontarians in mourning the passing of Gordon Lightfoot.
Gordon was a son of Orillia and remained true to his Ontario roots throughout his life.
His iconic voice and words have inspired generations of Canadian and international musicians and fans alike, with his personal songs of love and loss.
Although Gordon Lightfoot never thought of himself as a musical icon, that is exactly who he was. Unique among Canada’s singer-songwriters, he captured the soaring spirit and landscapes of our great land. From Muskoka to Massey Hall and stages around the world, Gordon was a troubadour of grace, nobility and humility.
Thank you, Gordon. You were — and shall always be — a poet, a legend and a friend to many.
My thoughts are with Gordon Lightfoot’s family and his many friends.
You will be missed.
