Hundreds gathered to pay their respects to former Canadian prime minister Brian Mulroney at his state funeral at Montreal’s Notre-Dame Basilica on Saturday.
From politicians to hockey legends, here’s what some of the attendees had to say about his life and legacy.
Caroline Mulroney
My dad saw the world in a bigger way than most. His humanity defined him, transcending politics and connecting with people in a way that left an indelible mark on their hearts and souls. In our grief, our family is comforted and grateful for the universal outpouring of affection and admiration for what my father meant to them and to Canada.
Justin Trudeau
He shaped our history and got the big things right. He had a huge impact 40 years ago and four years ago as he helped Canada and me navigate a very challenging time with our free-trade deal with the United States.
Pierre Poilievre
He was the son of an electrician from a working-class Irish family, building towns in rural Quebec, who rose to become Prime Minister. This teaches me that in our country, anyone from anywhere can achieve anything.
As a father, he kept his family united. Married to his beautiful wife for half a century, his four kids were fiercely loyal to him, as he was to them. He leaves behind 16 wonderful grandchildren to carry on his magnificent legacy.
Wayne Gretzky
In politics and hockey, you fight, you battle, you drive. Today, I am proud to be Canadian to see past prime ministers and the current prime minister here. That’s what our country is about: coming together, being friendly, helping others, and paying respects. Mr. Mulroney was one of the greatest prime ministers we’ve ever had.
Jean Charest
We live in a world that he helped shape and in the country that he helped build. Thanks to Brian Mulroney, we live in one of the greatest countries in the world, Canada. Today, Canadians pay their respects and express their deep gratitude to one of Canada’s greatest prime ministers and true nation builders.
Pierre-Karl Péladeau
His life revolved around deep values, with loyalty at the top. We could always count on him, even in the toughest and darkest moments.
