Mayor's Message in Tribute to Marc Garneau

It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Marc Garneau on June 4, 2025. As a sign of mourning and respect, the flags at the City of Westmount’s building will be flown at half-mast to pay homage to a man whose remarkable journey left its mark on the history of our City and our nation.

As Canada's first person in space, a former President of the Canadian Space Agency, and a respected minister, Marc Garneau also devoted 15 years to serving us as our representative in the House of Commons. Through every term as a Member of Parliament, he embodied integrity, intelligence, and a deep respect for citizens. Present, accessible, and profoundly human, he was always attuned to the community. Marc Garneau was adored and respected in our community.

I hold fond memories of his last public engagements here in Westmount. In June 2024, during his participation at the national launch of the TD Summer Reading Club at the Public Library, his passion, smile, and kindness captivated young readers. Many of us were also touched by the sincerity and humility with which he shared his professional and personal journey during the presentation of his memoir, A Most Extraordinary Ride, at the Westmount Public Library in October 2024. It was a truly inspiring and emotional moment.

Marc Garneau leaves a profound legacy in Westmount: that of a man who dedicated his extraordinary journey to the service of others, with dignity, calm, and commitment. Yet, beyond the great man, the great scientist and politician, Marc was above all a loving family man. On behalf of the City of Westmount, I would like to express my heartfelt sympathies to his wife, Pamela, and his four children during this difficult time.

We will remember this extraordinary man who travelled among the stars and continues to inspire us to serve our community.

Christina M. Smith 

Mayor of Westmount