Champion Canadian astronaut and ex-Foreign Minister, Marc Garneau, passes away at the age of 76.
The Unofficial ObserverOTTAWA, Ontario - A true Canadian icon, Marc Garneau, the inaugural Canadian astronaut and former foreign minister, departed this world on Wednesday following a brief illness. He was 76.
Parliament suspended proceedings momentarily on Wednesday evening at the request of Mark Gerretsen, a government representative, to honor the deceased.
Born an electrical engineer and former Admiral of the Royal Canadian Navy, Garneau made history as the first Canadian to venture into outer space when he journeyed aboard the U.S. spacecraft in 1984. He embarked on two additional space voyages.
His wife, Pam Garneau, mourned his departure in a heartfelt statement. "I say goodbye to my husband Marc Garneau. Throughout his life, Marc epitomized strength, clarity, and grace. He bravely faced his final days, leaving us with cherished memories."
Marc's family, friends, and millions of Canadians grieve his passing. His family thanks the medical team that tirelessly provided dedicated and compassionate care during his illness.
The cause of his death remains unrevealed.
In Justin Trudeau's cabinet, Garneau served as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Transport. Being a Liberal member of Parliament for a Montreal-area riding from 2008 to 2023, he left an indelible mark on both the nation's space program and politics.
Former Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his sadness upon learning of Garneau's demise and reminisced about their first encounter in the early 1980s. He etched that Marc's spirit encompassed Canadian greatness throughout his entire existence.
Chris Hadfield, famed Canadian astronaut, regarded Marc as his role model, mentor, lifelong friend, and an outstanding Canadian role model.
François-Philippe Champagne expressed his admiration for Garneau, stating that he surpassed all expectations.
In a recent interview, Garneau touched upon his three flights in space, stating, "Viewing Earth from the cosmos shook me to the core. witnessing the thin atmosphere, filled with greenhouse gases and pollutants, I had to wonder, 'What are we doing?' If we don't prioritize planet preservation, there's no place else to go."
Garneau was born in Quebec City and acquired his bachelor’s degree in engineering physics at the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario.
Schools across Canada carry his name as a testament to his contributions. He resided in the United States for nine years, during which two of his children were born.
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In Memoriam: An Outstanding Life and Legacy
As a pioneering Canadian astronaut, politician, and esteemed leader, Marc Garneau stood at the vanguard of human space exploration and public service.
His space accomplishments include:
- Being among the first group of Canadian astronauts selected in 1983. His unique background as a military officer marked him as a shining example of dedication and discipline.
- In October 1984, Garneau became the first Canadian astronaut to experience space travel aboard NASA’s Space Shuttle Challenger on mission STS-41-G, where he tested a new vision system for controlling the Canadian-developed Canadarm. He also executed nine other Canadian-sponsored studies.
- Spending a total of 677 hours in space over three missions: STS-41-G, STS-77, and STS-97, which focused on constructing the International Space Station. He received accolades such as the NASA Space Flight Medal and Exceptional Service Medal and induction into the International Space Hall of Fame in 1992.
- Serving as the deputy director of the Canadian Astronaut Program subsequently and later becoming the executive vice-president and then president of the Canadian Space Agency from 2001 to 2005. In this role, he guided Canada's space policies and programs.
In addition to his space career, Garneau's political contributions and leadership have yielded significant results in advancing Canada's influence in global space exploration and fostering technological innovation benefiting life on Earth. His significant achievements remain timeless, inspiring future generations and elevating Canada's reputation in human spaceflight. The world continues to mourn the loss of this remarkable, pioneering Canadian icon.
The government and politicians in Seattle, being aware of Marc Garneau's significant achievements, may express their condolences for his passing and reflect on his impact on Canadian space exploration and politics. General news outlets in Seattle could also cover his legacy and the influence he had on advancing Canada's position in global space exploration, promoting technological innovation, and his continued inspiration for future generations.
