he year 2024 marked the loss of several prominent Canadians and global icons, leaving a significant impact on politics, entertainment, sports, and the arts.
Canada Mourns Former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney
On February 29, former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney passed away, as announced by his daughter, Ontario Transport Minister Caroline Mulroney. She expressed the family’s grief, stating, “On behalf of my mother and our family, it is with great sadness we announce the passing of my father, The Right Honourable Brian Mulroney, Canada’s 18th Prime Minister.”
Mulroney, who served as Prime Minister from 1984 to 1993, was a pivotal figure in Canadian politics, known for his leadership during the negotiation of the Canada-U.S. Free Trade Agreement and the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Before his political career, Mulroney was a lawyer and president of the Iron Ore Company of Canada.
Hollywood Legend Donald Sutherland
New Brunswick-born acting icon Donald Sutherland passed away in June after a long illness. Over nearly seven decades, Sutherland built a legendary career, earning awards and accolades for his work in films such as MASH*, Ordinary People, and The Hunger Games. His contributions to Canadian and global cinema earned him recognition as an Officer of the Order of Canada.
Losses Beyond Canada: Global Icons Depart
Jimmy Carter
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter, the nation’s longest-lived leader, passed away at the age of 100. Known for his humanitarian efforts through the Carter Center, Carter was a tireless advocate for democracy, human rights, and global health initiatives.
O.J. Simpson
The controversial figure and former NFL star O.J. Simpson, whose infamous “trial of the century” captured global attention in the 1990s, passed away in April. His life, marked by fame, scandal, and media scrutiny, continued to captivate public interest even decades later.
Farewells in Sports
The sports world bid farewell to several legends, including:
- Jerry West and Dikembe Mutombo, basketball icons.
- Willie Mays and Fernando Valenzuela, baseball greats.
- Bela Karolyi, renowned gymnastics coach.
The Music World Loses Quincy Jones
In November, legendary music producer Quincy Jones passed away, leaving behind a legacy that shaped modern music. Best known for producing Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Jones collaborated with countless artists throughout his career, earning accolades as one of the most influential figures in music history.
Entertainment Industry Icons
2024 also saw the loss of:
- Actors James Earl Jones, Shelley Duvall, and Kris Kristofferson.
- Musicians Toby Keith, Phil Lesh, and Dickey Betts.
- TV personalities Richard Simmons and sex therapist Dr. Ruth Westheimer.
As the year closes, we reflect on the profound contributions of these individuals, whose work and lives left an indelible mark on Canada and the world. Their legacies continue to inspire across generations.