Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer my deepest sympathies to family and friends on the passing of a great Canadian, Mr. Pierre Berton.
During our lifetime we are fortunate to get to know individuals of real distinction whose significant contribution to Canada warrants special recognition. Pierre Berton was such a man. He was a prolific author, journalist and broadcaster, but he will forever be remembered as a Canadian icon who spent more than five decades chronicalling the rich history of our country like no other.
He truly had a unique gift for making Canada's past come alive. In essence, he celebrated our nation and our people by telling Canadian stories from a Canadian perspective. He helped us understand better our country.
Pierre Berton's passing has undoubtedly left a void, however, his works and his contribution to the fabric of our nation will live forever.