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.”