RIP Marc Garneau

1949 - 2025

Thursday November 29, 2012 - Marc Garneau, former astronaut and Montreal MP, launched his bid for Liberal leadership, focusing on uniting the party and prioritizing the economy. Criticizing Prime Minister Stephen Harper's divisive leadership, Garneau called for significant change. When he blasted into space in 1984, I joined the above band of science nerds

Toronto Star: Former astronaut, federal minister Marc Garneau dies at 76

Marc Garneau was a true gentleman, known for his integrity and sincerity. He didn't engage in partisan politics but was never afraid to speak his mind when something wasn't right. Even as he critiqued Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on issues like the Clarity Act and access to the PMO, his comments came from a place of wanting the best for Canada. After being dropped from the cabinet in 2023, he remained outspoken before choosing not to run in the federal election.

Thursday, March 14, 2013 - Marc Garneau exited the Liberal Party leadership race, endorsing Justin Trudeau as the inevitable winner. He supported extending the voter registration deadline, signalling his backing. Garneau cited internal polling showing Trudeau's 72% support versus his 15% as a decisive factor. A constructive critic of Trudeau, Garneau really wouldn’t get out of his hair for another 10 years.

I remember the thrill of him becoming the first Canadian astronaut; it was a proud moment for all of us. Meeting him in 2013 at the Hamilton Spectator for an Editorial Board meeting was a memorable experience. Sure, we were there for his thoughts on his policies and leadership ambition, but his stories about space were what truly captivated us. Unlike another candidate, a certain unnamed former NHL goalie superstar, Garneau was approachable and willing to share his fascinating experiences.

February 26, 2013 - Marc Garneau at the Hamilton Spectator. He gave us a vivid account of weightlessness and the awe of orbiting the planet. Doodles of space scenes around the sketch from life.

Marc Garneau's legacy as a pioneer and a decent human being will continue to inspire. He was a man of principle and passion, and he will be dearly missed.

Below is my own VCR recording (transferred to digital) from the time of my first incarnation of SubStack, for an audience of one subscriber, me.

Credit: CBC News

October 5, 1984 - Excerpt from my personal news journal - when I was 15.

Wednesday February 27, 2013 - The Hamilton Spectator

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