Condolences are pouring in on the passing of John Crosbie.
I'm going to miss you Dad. pic.twitter.com/1P3IFf1ALL
— Ches Crosbie (@ChesCrosbie) January 10, 2020
Premier Dwight Ball says Crosbie’s family can take comfort in the “indelible impact” he made on the province. Ball calls Crosbie a “spirited and proud Newfoundlander…known for his colourful personality.”
Ball says John Crosbie ensured that the interests of this province were heard loudly and clearly over the course of his storied career.
In an era when our politicians seem so small and dull, we will miss the towering energy, intellect and spirit of John Crosbie all the more. What a character – we don’t make them like him anymore.
— Bob Hallett (@bobhallett) January 10, 2020
John Crosbie was an exceptional public servant representing Newfoundland and Labrador as Minister and Lieutenant Governor with immense pride. Laureen and I mourn the loss of a great Canadian together with John’s family and loved ones.
— Stephen Harper (@stephenharper) January 10, 2020
Meanwhile, the PC Caucus is expressing its sympathy to the family of party leader Ches Crosbie. PC Caucus Leader David Brazil says Crosbie started delivering for Newfoundland and Labrador in the Legislature, where they serve today by standing his ground and fighting for the people.
Brazil says the party will mark his passing in the same spirit in which he lived his entire life in politics and public service, by pulling no punches and no holds barred.
St. John’s Flags Lowered to Remember Former Deputy Mayor Crosbie
Flags are flying at half-staff at St. John’s city hall to honour the passing of John Crosbie.
Crosbie began his political career on a municipal level, serving on St. John’s city council.
Mayor Danny Breen says Crosbie served as Deputy Mayor from 1965 to July of 1966, when he resigned to move to provincial politics.
Breen says Crosbie was one of the “select few” who served in all three levels of politics, municipal, provincial and federal, before finishing his long political career as Lieutenant Governor.
I had the great pleasure of being a fellow MP with John Crosbie. I debated him, jousted with him and joked with him. Despite our differences, one which led to the end of Clark govt, we remained friends, best to Jane, Ches and the family. A fine man. https://t.co/6oD1YRbOFa
— Bob Rae (@BobRae48) January 10, 2020
Saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend John Crosbie. A great Newfoundlander, and a great Canadian! His contributions to the province and the country he loved will be long remembered! Our thoughts go out to Jane and his wonderful family at this time of grief. RIP John
— Hon. Sheila Copps (@Sheila_Copps) January 10, 2020
MP Seamus O’Regan, whose godfather, Frank Ryan, ran Crosbie’s campaigns, says he remembers well Crosbie’s bid for the federal PC Leadership in 1983. He calls it an “incredible moment” to see a Newfoundlander come so close to becoming Prime Minister.
John Crosbie was a lion.
He was a fierce champion for his Province, and for Canada.
His legacy will be measured for generations.
Today, though, all our thoughts are with Jane and his family, who have lost a loving husband and a devoted father.
— Seamus O’Regan (@SeamusORegan) January 10, 2020
Lieutenant Governor Judy Foote is expressing her condolences to Jane Crosbie and her family on the passing of the former Lieutenant Governor.
John Crosbie served in the vice-regal role from 2008 to 2013. He brought with him his usual flair, often dressing in seal skin, and offering an aside or opinion when the position required him to remain neutral.
The flags at Government House are flying half mast out of respect for the Hon. John C. Crosbie, P.C., O.C., O.N.L., Q.C. 12th Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, who has passed away.
More: https://t.co/TSkRdvV9Oj pic.twitter.com/zOJNKJztJi
— LG Judy Foote (@judy_foote) January 10, 2020
Her Honour says Crosbie will be remembered for the “deep-rooted passion and firm conviction” he exhibited throughout his career.
She says his love of debate and his sense of humour, made him a household name, and he will be remembered for the passion and enthusiasm he had for all things associated with this province.
I owe so much in my life to John Crosbie! He was a great person, member of our family, friend and mentor. Very sad to see him go. However his legacy will stay with us forever. Arguably the greatest Newfoundlander and Labradorian. Thoughts with Jane, Ches, Michael and Beth.
— Tim Powers (@powerstim) January 10, 2020
Conservative Senator Fabian Manning says Crosbie received the first vote he cast as a young man, and helped with Manning’s first election campaign in 1993 as he was winding down his own political career. He says Crosbie was able to work with leaders on the world stage, while still being able to relate to ordinary citizens.
Manning says people held Crosbie in high regard and respect.
Andrew Scheer also shared his condolences. Scheer says Crosbie’s hard work and wit will “not soon be forgotten” by those who worked with him, and moreso those who “stood across the aisle.”
Prime Minister Remembers Crosbie as “Force of Nature”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offered his condolences, as well as those of the Government of Canada, marking Crosbie’s indelible presence on the history of Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as the country.
Trudeau recognized Crosbie for his career and for the lasting contributions to the province and at a federal level, reflecting on his quick wit and as a “true force of nature.”
Please read my full statement on the remarkable life & career of John Crosbie: https://t.co/fWnyQy435k
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) January 10, 2020
Peckford Pays Tribute
The man who was Premier at the time of the signing of the Atlantic Accord has added his tribute to the late John Crosbie.
Brian Peckford first met Crosbie when he was running for the leadership of the Liberal Party of Newfoundland, in an attempt to ouster Joey Smallwood.
Peckford became one of Crosbie’s campaign managers at the time. He later served him in PC Premier Frank Moores’ cabinet, where “his influence was important” in the issues surrounding the Labrador liner-board mill and the purchase of Brinco’s interests.
Crosbie was a great orator says Peckford, a skill acquired after he entered politics. A testament according to Peckford, of John’s determination and hard work.
Peckford says Crosbie’s support of the Hibernia Project was crucial in obtaining the federal equity assistance needed to make oil and gas development in offshore Newfoundland and Labrador a reality.
