OTTAWA, June 15, 2016 /CNW/ - The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the death of Gilles Lamontagne:
"I was deeply saddened to learn today of the passing of Gilles Lamontagne at the age of 97.
"Mr. Lamontagne lived a bold and full life. His service to Canada started at a young age, when he joined the Royal Canadian Air Force during the Second World War and survived almost two years as a prisoner of war in Germany.
"After distinguishing himself as a military officer, Mr. Lamontagne continued serving the public good. In a career that spanned more than 30 years, he served as Mayor of Quebec City, Member of Parliament, Parliamentary Secretary, Minister of various federal departments, and Lieutenant-Governor of Quebec. In all capacities, he served with exemplary dedication and compassion.
"For his efforts, Mr. Lamontagne was named an Officer of the Order of Canada, a Knight of the Ordre national du Québec, a Knight of the French Legion of Honor, and received the Diamond Jubilee medal.
"On a personal level, I will remember Gilles mostly through the stories told by my father – of their time spent together in Montreal as teenagers and of his strong moral compass.
"On behalf of all Canadians, Sophie and I offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends of this remarkable man. We join Quebecers and all Canadians in mourning the passing of this great man."
This document is also available at http://pm.gc.ca
SOURCE Prime Minister's Office
PMO Media Relations: 613-957-5555
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