Former Minister Bill Graham has passed away. He was 83 years old.
Graham served as Minister of Foreign Affairs under Prime Minister Jean Chrétien and was later appointed Minister of National Defense under Prime Minister Paul Martin.
He was also Leader of the Opposition and Acting Leader of the Liberal Party.
He was the Member of Parliament for Toronto Centre, known as Rosedale and Toronto Centre—Rosedale for much of his time in politics.
In a statement, Martin said he and his wife were sorry to hear the news, noting he met Graham in law school.
The former prime minister said the funds were reinvested in the armed forces under Graham’s leadership and helped the government through a difficult period in history as the Canadian military deployed in Kandahar, in southern Afghanistan.
“His loss will be felt by all who knew him or worked with him,” Martin said. “Sheila and I send our deepest condolences to his wife Cathy, his children, Katy and Patrick and his beloved grandchildren.”
Ralph Goodale, who worked as finance minister alongside Graham, called him a decent man in all respects, especially in foreign policy and defence.
Goodale – who was persuaded by Graham to agree to a $13 billion increase in defense spending – said he was an optimist who tried to see the best in people.
“Bill understood the complexities and chasms of international politics, and sought to position Canada constructively and practically to help build a fairer and safer world,” Goodale said via email.
“At a time of deep polarization and extreme populism, Bill’s sense of moderation, propriety and poise is sorely lacking. Our love and respect surrounds his family, friends and colleagues.”
Former Prime Minister Stephen Harper also spoke kind words about the man who once crossed paths with him in the House of Commons.
“Bill Graham was the first leader of the opposition I had when I was prime minister,” Harper said in a statement.
“Even though he was a determined adversary, Bill was always a gentleman and he always kept the best interests of the country in mind. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”
Retired General Rick Hillier worked with Graham after Hillier became Chief of the Defense Staff in 2005.
“I am truly sorry to hear the news of Minister Graham’s passing,” he said. “He was a proud Canadian, an astute politician and a Minister of Defense who understood the urgency of rebuilding the Canadian Forces and dedicated himself to this mission.
“It was a pleasure to support [chief of the defence staff], and had my respect and admiration. He was also a man of his word and esteemed in the eyes of all with whom he worked or associated.”
Hiller called Canada the least country today without Graham.
In a tweet, Transport Minister Omar Alghabra called Graham “my friend and mentor”.
“He was a giant in Canadian and international politics,” Alghabra said.
“He wore his love for Canada on his sleeve. My condolences to his family.”
I am saddened to learn of the passing of my friend and mentor Bill Graham. He was a giant of Canadian and international politics. He wore his love for Canada on his sleeve. My condolences to his family.
“Internet evangelist. Extreme communicator. Subtly charming alcohol aficionado. Typical tv geek.”