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Family, friends, colleagues express condolences on death of Jim Prentice

Oct 14, 2016 | 12:45 PM

Former Alberta premier and federal cabinet minister Jim Prentice died Thursday in a plane crash near Kelowna, British Columbia. Family, friends and political colleagues expressed their condolences:

— “Words cannot begin to express our profound shock and heartbreak at the news that our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Jim, has died in this tragic event. In addition, another member of our family was also on the plane, Ken Gellatly, the father-in-law of one of our daughters, also a very special man. To lose two family members at once is unbelievably painful and we are certain you will appreciate and respect our wishes for privacy at this time and the coming weeks. We are also thinking of the other families who have been affected by this tragedy and our thoughts and prayers are with them. In the time Jim has been with us, he was a friend to many. Jim was a loving and compassionate man who dedicated his life to his family and public service. He will be so greatly missed.” The Prentice family.

— “It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of former Alberta premier, Jim Prentice, who died last night in a tragic plane crash just outside of Kelowna. Jim was a man who brought his deep convictions to everything he turned his hand to – whether it was law, business, or politics. At each step of his career, Jim was a strong voice for the people of Alberta and for the people of Canada. He was highly respected and well liked in the House of Commons, across all party lines, because he brought an intelligent, honest, and straightforward approach to everything he did.” Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. 

— “I spoke with his wife, Karen, and expressed the profound sorrow and sympathy I feel, and that I know all Albertans feel, in the face of this unspeakable tragedy. He served our province in so many roles for so many years. He deeply loved Alberta. He worked tirelessly for all of us, in the true spirit of one who is committed to public service. I benefited from his advice, and the Government of Alberta is continuing to pursue many of his initiatives.” Alberta Premier Rachel Notley.

— “Jim was a friend and mentor to us all and his dedication to public service was an inspiration to everyone who had the honour of working with him. Beyond this dedication and commitment to public service, Jim was a kind and generous man who always put his family first. Our deepest sympathies are with his wife Karen, their daughters and the entire Prentice family.” Ric McIver, interim leader, Alberta Progressive Conservative party.

— “Jim was a remarkable Canadian who will be remembered for his service to the people of Alberta and all Canadians. He was a consummate professional, and always approachable and kind. I am honoured to have known him.” Bruce A. Heyman, U.S. ambassador to Canada.

— “It is incredibly sad for Albertans and Canadians … Jim was an incredibly passionate, wonderful fine person. He felt deeply about people and whether there was opportunity for them.” Former Alberta health minister Stephen Mandel.

— “I enjoyed working with Jim Prentice when he was a key federal cabinet minister and then as premier of our closest friend and neighbour, Alberta. Tami and I express our deepest condolences to Jim’s family and friends and to all Albertans. This is a deep loss for all of Canada.” Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall.

— “Jim came to see me when I became mayor —one of my very first meetings, in fact — and he helped me navigate those tough first few weeks. Even after he left federal politics, he was an important part of this city and always ready to help however he could.” Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi.

— “I will remember Jim Prentice as one of the most affable, respected public servants, whose humility emboldened his intellect. Rest in peace.” Conservative Member of Parliament Lisa Raitt.

— “Jim leaves a rich legacy of public service and loyal representation federally and provincially. However, of special note was his genuine commitment to, and work on behalf of First Nations people in Canada. Jim brought his remarkable work-ethic, intellect and passion to bear on matters critical to the improvement of quality of life for First Nations people.” Roy Whitney, Chief of the Tsuut’ina First Nation.

— “Jim was a consistent voice for a stronger, more united Canada. Most importantly, Jim was a good friend, a caring father and grandfather, and loving husband. My heart goes out to his wife Karen and to all those who were close to him.” Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister.

— “It is with great sadness that Catherine and I learned of the sudden passing of Jim Prentice today. We join all New Democrats in offering our most sincere condolences to his family and loved ones at this difficult time. As a Member of Parliament and Cabinet Minister, and later as the Premier of Alberta, Mr. Prentice served both Canada and Alberta with honour and respect.”  NDP Leader Tom Mulcair.

— “Jim was a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly to build a better country and province. He was a consummate professional and someone who loved Alberta and believed deeply in its potential. His reasoned, pragmatic voice in Canadian politics will be sorely missed.” Edmonton Mayor Don Iveson.

— “Laureen and I were shocked and saddened to learn of the death of our friend and colleague Jim Prentice.” Former prime minister Stephen Harper. 

— “Our heart goes out to Karen, the girls and his two beautiful grandchildren. All of us in the Conservative family are devastated today. It is a huge loss to the country. He was a well-respected political leader and a business leader,” but we know he was most proud to be a father and grandfather.” Rona Ambrose, interim leader of the Conservative Party of Canada.

— “When he left politics one of the things he said was he was looking forward to being a grandfather, spending time with family — what a tragedy that he has been taken from them so soon.” Former Wildrose Party leader Danielle Smith.

— “Our deepest sympathies are extended to Karen and their whole family. Jim was an important contributor to the political life of Canada, and one of the true gentlemen I have known. He will be missed but his legacy on the many issues and people he touched will live on.” Former prime minister Brian Mulroney.

 

The Canadian Press