Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to legendary Ottawa comedian, Mike MacDonald, who passed away on Saturday. A renowned stand-up comedian for over 40 years, Mike's unique comedy routines inspired a generation of Canadian comedians.
In addition to appearances in Just For Laughs, late night talk shows, hosting the Gemini Awards and the Canadian Comedy Awards, Mike MacDonald also starred in several movies, including, Three Fugitives, The Funny Farm, and Mister Nice Guy.
Raised in an air force family, Mike used his ability to make people laugh to bring joy to the Canadian troops based in Kandahar.
Mike MacDonald also spoke out about his own struggles with mental health, using comedy to help people view mental health in a more positive light and to end the stigma. In fact, he was scheduled to MC a fundraiser for first responders mental health in my riding on Wednesday at Algonquin College.
Mike MacDonald spent his life making us laugh. Even as we mourn his untimely passing, we will always remember Mike MacDonald with a smile.