Pathetic Facts

Canadian music stars who deceased at age 61

Here are 11 famous musicians from Canada died at 61:

Jack Layton

Jack Layton (July 18, 1950 Montreal-August 22, 2011 Toronto) a.k.a. John Gilbert Layton or John Gilbert "Jack" Layton was a Canadian political scientist, politician, professor and activist. He had two children, Mike Layton and Sarah Campbell.

Layton was the leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) of Canada from 2003 until his death in 2011. He also served as a Toronto city councillor and was known for his work on social justice and environmental issues. Layton was instrumental in leading the NDP to their best electoral performance ever in the 2011 federal election, where they became the official opposition for the first time in Canadian history. He was praised as a charismatic and compassionate leader who inspired many Canadians to become politically engaged. After his death, he was remembered fondly by politicians and citizens from across the political spectrum for his commitment to his values and his dedication to public service.

Layton was born into a family of politicians - his grandfather, also named Jack Layton, was a cabinet minister in the Duplessis government in Quebec. Layton himself entered politics at the young age of 22, when he was elected president of his student union. After completing his PhD in political science at York University, he became a professor at Ryerson University in Toronto. He was first elected to Toronto City Council in 1982, and became known for his advocacy for affordable housing and public transit. In 1991, he was elected to the House of Commons as a member of the NDP, and quickly became known as a skilled orator and debater. Throughout his political career, he was a vocal advocate for LGBT rights and environmental protection. In 2011, Layton was diagnosed with prostate cancer, which had spread to his bones. Despite his illness, he continued to campaign vigorously during the federal election that year, often using a cane or wheelchair to get around. His death on August 22, 2011 was met with an outpouring of grief from Canadians of all stripes.

He died in cancer.

Read more about Jack Layton on Wikipedia »

Émile Nelligan

Émile Nelligan (December 24, 1879 Montreal-November 18, 1941 Montreal) also known as Emile Nelligan was a Canadian writer and poet.

Despite publishing only a small body of work, Nelligan is considered one of the most important poets in Canadian literature. He was known for his intense and emotional verse, which was influenced by the French Symbolist movement. Nelligan's most famous work is the collection of poems entitled "Paysages tristes" (Sad Landscapes), which he published at the age of 20. However, his troubled mental state eventually led to him being institutionalized at the age of 21 and he spent the majority of his life in mental institutions. Despite this, his work has had a lasting impact on Canadian literature and he remains a celebrated figure in Quebec culture.

Nelligan was born in Montreal to a family of Irish and French Canadian descent. He began writing poetry from a young age and was known for his prodigious talent. At the age of 16, he began studying at the École Polytechnique in Montreal, but dropped out after a year to focus on his writing. In 1899, he published his first collection of poetry, "Juvenilia," which drew critical acclaim and established his reputation as a promising new voice in Canadian literature.

However, Nelligan's mental health began to deteriorate shortly thereafter. He experienced increasingly frequent episodes of psychosis and delirium, and was ultimately committed to a mental institution in 1899 at the age of 21. Despite brief periods of remission, he was never able to fully recover and remained institutionalized for the rest of his life.

During his time in the institution, Nelligan continued to write poetry prolifically, yet struggled to gain recognition for his work. It was only after his death in 1941 that his poetry began to be rediscovered and celebrated as a major contribution to Canadian literature.

Today, Nelligan is remembered as one of the most talented and important poets in the history of Quebec and Canadian literature. His work continues to resonate with readers for its emotional intensity, striking imagery, and visionary lyricism, and has inspired generations of writers and artists.

Read more about Émile Nelligan on Wikipedia »

Cuthbert Grant

Cuthbert Grant (April 5, 1793-July 15, 1854 St. François Xavier, Manitoba) was a Canadian personality.

He is known for his role as a Métis leader and his involvement in the Pemmican War, also known as the Battle of Seven Oaks. Grant is considered one of the key figures in the Métis Nation's history for his leadership in establishing a provisional government in 1816. He was also instrumental in securing land rights for the Métis through negotiations with the Hudson's Bay Company. In addition to his efforts as a leader and negotiator, Grant was an entrepreneur who established a successful fur trading business. He is remembered as a pioneering figure in the history of Western Canada and is celebrated for his contributions to the Métis Nation.

Cuthbert Grant was born in Fort La Reine, present-day Manitoba, to a Scottish father and Cree mother. He grew up speaking both English and Cree and developed a deep understanding and appreciation for both cultures. In 1812, at the age of 19, Grant began working as a fur trader for the North West Company. He quickly gained a reputation as a skilled negotiator and leader among the Métis community.

In 1816, Grant led the Métis in establishing a provisional government, known as the Métis National Committee. The committee was formed in response to the Hudson's Bay Company's attempts to increase their control over the fur trade and limit the Métis' access to pemmican, a staple food for the fur traders. The committee asserted Métis sovereignty over the Red River Valley and negotiated directly with the Hudson's Bay Company to secure rights to the land.

Grant's leadership during the Battle of Seven Oaks in 1816 solidified his position as a key figure in Métis history. During the battle, a group of Métis and First Nations people clashed with the Hudson's Bay Company over access to pemmican. The confrontation resulted in the deaths of 21 people, including the governor of the colony of Assiniboia. While Grant was not directly involved in the violence, he was present during the incident and its aftermath.

After the battle, Grant continued to work as a fur trader and established his own successful business. He also played a crucial role in negotiating the terms of the Treaty of Fort Garry in 1870, which secured Métis land rights in the Red River Valley.

Today, Cuthbert Grant is remembered as an important figure in Métis history and a symbol of Métis resistance and resilience. His legacy continues to inspire and inform the Métis Nation's ongoing struggles for self-determination and recognition.

Read more about Cuthbert Grant on Wikipedia »

George Brown

George Brown (November 29, 1818 Alloa-May 9, 1880 Toronto) was a Canadian personality. His children are Margaret Brown, Catherine Edith Brown and George Mackenzie Brown.

George Brown was a prominent politician, journalist, and businessman in Canada during the 19th century. He was a founding member of the Liberal Party of Canada and served as the editor of the Toronto Globe newspaper. Brown was an influential figure in the movement towards Canadian confederation and played a key role in drafting the British North America Act, which established Canada as a country in 1867.

Brown was also a successful businessman, co-founding the firm that would later become the Imperial Bank of Canada. He was a strong supporter of free trade and played a major role in negotiating the Reciprocity Treaty of 1854 with the United States.

Despite his many achievements, Brown was a controversial figure in Canadian politics during his time. He was known for his outspoken views on issues such as religious and linguistic rights, which often made him a target of criticism and opposition.

Tragically, Brown was assassinated by a disgruntled former employee in 1880, at the age of 61. His legacy as a champion of Canadian unity and a defender of individual rights continues to be celebrated today.

After Brown's death, he was widely mourned and his funeral was attended by thousands of people. His contributions to Canadian politics and business were celebrated and he was lauded as a patriot and a champion of individual freedoms. In honor of his legacy, the federal government established a memorial statue of Brown in Toronto's Queen's Park.

Moreover, Brown's influence on Canadian political thought can still be seen today. He was a strong advocate for the rights of minority groups, such as French Canadians and Indigenous peoples, and he championed the idea of a bilingual Canada. Brown's commitment to multiculturalism and inclusivity continues to shape Canada's national identity.

Finally, Brown's accomplishments as a journalist are also noteworthy. He was a vocal opponent of censorship and advocated for press freedoms. Under his leadership, the Toronto Globe gained a reputation as one of the most influential newspapers in Canada, and played an important role in shaping public opinion on a range of issues.

He died as a result of assassination.

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Brooke Claxton

Brooke Claxton (August 23, 1898 Canada-June 6, 1960) was a Canadian lawyer.

He was also a member of the Parliament of Canada and served in multiple high-level positions in the government. After completing his education at the Université de Montréal and McGill University, Claxton practiced law in Montreal before he was elected to parliament in 1940 as a Liberal Party candidate. He served as the Minister of National Health and Welfare from 1944 to 1945 and then as the Minister of National Defence from 1945 to 1954, during which he oversaw the development of Canada's military and played a key role in the country's post-war reconstruction efforts. He was widely respected for his intelligence, determination, and commitment to public service. Claxton retired from politics in 1954 and returned to the private sector, but he continued to be involved in various community activities until his death in 1960.

In addition to his political career, Claxton was also a respected military officer. He served in the Canadian Expeditionary Force during World War I and was wounded in action at the Battle of Hill 70 in August 1917. During World War II, he served as a liaison officer between the Canadian government and the British military, and he played a key role in the formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Claxton was also involved in various organizations and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Canadians, including the Canadian Red Cross and the Canadian National Institute for the Blind. He was posthumously awarded the Order of Canada in recognition of his contributions to public service.

Read more about Brooke Claxton on Wikipedia »

Robert James Manion

Robert James Manion (November 19, 1881 Pembroke-July 2, 1943) also known as Dr. Robert James Manion was a Canadian physician and politician.

He was the Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada from 1938 to 1940 and also served as a Member of Parliament from 1930 until his death in 1943. Manion was known for his ardent anti-Communist and anti-Fascist views, which he expressed during his political career. Prior to entering politics, he had been a practicing physician, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. He also served in the Canadian Army Medical Corps during World War I, where he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Manion's political career was marked by controversy, including allegations of anti-Semitism and his initial opposition to Canada's war effort during World War II. Despite these challenges, he remained a fixture in Canadian politics until his untimely death at the age of 61.

Manion was born in Pembroke, Ontario, and was the son of James Manion, a prominent physician, and politician. He received his early education in local schools and then attended the University of Toronto, where he earned his medical degree. After completing his studies, he practiced medicine in Pembroke for several years before enlisting in the Canadian Army Medical Corps in 1915.

During his service in World War I, he was stationed in England, France, and Belgium, and he received several commendations for his service. After the war, he returned to Canada and resumed his medical practice, where he quickly gained a reputation as a skilled obstetrician and gynecologist.

In 1930, Manion decided to enter politics and ran as the Conservative Party candidate in the riding of London, Ontario. He won the election and represented the riding in the House of Commons until his death in 1943. In 1938, he was elected as the Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, defeating former Prime Minister Arthur Meighen for the leadership position.

Manion was a vocal opponent of the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany during his time in politics, and he frequently criticized the policies of Liberal Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King. He also helped to form the National Government in 1940, a coalition of Conservative and Liberal Members of Parliament who supported Canada's involvement in World War II.

Despite his anti-Communist and anti-Fascist views, Manion was accused of holding anti-Semitic beliefs during his time in politics. These allegations were based on his public statements and actions, including his opposition to the admission of Jewish refugees into Canada during World War II.

In addition to his political career, Manion was also a dedicated philanthropist and supporter of the arts. He donated generously to the Canadian Red Cross and the National Gallery of Canada, among other organizations.

Manion's legacy in Canadian politics is complicated, as he was both a respected physician and a controversial politician. However, his passion for serving his community and his country cannot be denied, and his contributions to Canadian society continue to be celebrated today.

Read more about Robert James Manion on Wikipedia »

Michael Patrick Cashin

Michael Patrick Cashin (September 29, 1864 Canada-August 24, 1926) was a Canadian personality. He had one child, Peter John Cashin.

Michael Patrick Cashin was a prominent politician and lawyer in Newfoundland, Canada. He was elected to the Newfoundland House of Assembly in 1908 and served as Speaker of the House from 1913 to 1919. Cashin also played a key role in the creation of the Newfoundland Regiment during World War I, serving as its first commander. In addition to his political pursuits, Cashin was also an accomplished musician and conductor of the St. Bonaventure's College Orchestra. He was widely regarded as a beloved figure in Newfoundland and his legacy lives on through his contributions to the country's political and cultural history.

During his tenure as Speaker of the House, Michael Patrick Cashin was known for his oratorical skills and his commitment to maintaining order and decorum within the legislative body. He also played a critical role in the negotiations that led to Newfoundland's entry into the Canadian Confederation in 1949, which brought an end to the country's nearly 80 years as a self-governing dominion. In addition to his political and military work, Cashin was an accomplished writer and historian, having penned several books on Newfoundland's history and culture. He died in 1926 at the age of 61, and his funeral was attended by thousands of mourners from across the country. Today, he is remembered as one of Newfoundland's most beloved and respected figures, a true statesman who dedicated his life to serving his country and his people.

Albert James Smith

Albert James Smith (March 12, 1822 New Brunswick-June 30, 1883) was a Canadian personality.

Albert James Smith was a Canadian politician, lawyer, and judge. He served as the Premier of New Brunswick from 1865 to 1866 and again from 1870 to 1871. Smith entered politics in 1854 when he was elected to the Legislative Assembly of New Brunswick. During his time as Premier, he oversaw the construction of the Intercolonial Railway and advocated for the establishment of a national park in New Brunswick. In addition to his political career, Smith was also a successful lawyer and was appointed as a judge in 1876. He was known for his mutton-chop sideburns and for being an excellent orator. Smith's legacy lives on in New Brunswick, with a number of streets and buildings named after him.

After leaving politics, Albert James Smith became a judge in the Supreme Court of New Brunswick, where he served until his death in 1883. He was well-respected for his fairness and impartiality as a judge. In addition to his political and judicial career, he was also a successful businessman, owning several timber companies and serving as president of the Bank of New Brunswick. Smith was a supporter of Confederation and played a key role in persuading New Brunswick to join the new nation in 1867. Despite his accomplishments, Smith's personal life was marked by tragedy, as he lost several family members to illness and accidents. A devout Anglican, he was known for his philanthropy and support for the church. Today, he is remembered as one of New Brunswick's most influential and respected figures.

Read more about Albert James Smith on Wikipedia »

George Edwin King

George Edwin King (October 8, 1839 Saint John-May 7, 1901 Ottawa) also known as George King was a Canadian judge.

He studied law under Charles Fisher and was called to the New Brunswick Bar in 1863. After practicing law for several years, he was appointed a judge of the Supreme Court of New Brunswick in 1881. In 1890, he was appointed a judge of the Exchequer Court of Canada, and four years later, he was appointed Chief Justice of the same court. King was known for his strong intellectual capacity and for his ability to make sound decisions. During his career, he also served as a member of the Board of Governors of the University of New Brunswick and as a trustee of the Maritime Conference Academy. He passed away in Ottawa in 1901 at the age of 61.

George Edwin King was born in Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada in 1839. He graduated from the University of New Brunswick and also studied law under Charles Fisher. After being called to the New Brunswick Bar in 1863, he began practicing law until his appointment as a Supreme Court of New Brunswick judge in 1881.

His appointments continued to increase when he was appointed a judge of the Exchequer Court of Canada in 1890 and was later appointed Chief Justice of the same court four years later. King was known for his strong intellectual capacity and for his ability to make sound decisions. He was committed to public service and served as a member of the Board of Governors of the University of New Brunswick and as a trustee of the Maritime Conference Academy.

Before he passed away in Ottawa in 1901 at the age of 61, King made significant contributions to the Canadian legal system. Even to this day, he is recognized as a notable judge and his opinions have been cited in legal cases across Canada.

Read more about George Edwin King on Wikipedia »

Gilbert Layton

Gilbert Layton (November 5, 1899 Montreal-May 29, 1961) was a Canadian politician.

Layton was the leader of the Quebec Liberal Party and served as a Member of Parliament for the federal riding of Montreal-Bourassa from 1945 to 1958. He was also a member of the Legislative Assembly of Quebec from 1931 to 1936. Layton was known for his efforts to promote bilingualism and fought for the rights of francophones in Quebec. He was also a passionate supporter of cultural and artistic initiatives, and played a key role in advancing the development of Montreal's cultural scene. In addition to his political career, Layton was a successful businessman and owned the Belgo Building, which became known as a hub for artists and art galleries in Montreal.

Layton's commitment to promoting bilingualism was evident in his efforts to provide equal opportunities for both English and French speakers in Quebec. He advocated for bilingual education and fought against discriminatory language laws that targeted French-speaking citizens. Layton also strongly supported the arts, recognizing their importance in promoting cultural understanding and diversity. As a result, he worked actively to establish institutions like the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Opera Guild.

In addition to his political and business careers, Layton was a devoted father to his son, Jack Layton, who would later become a prominent Canadian politician in his own right. Jack followed in his father's footsteps, championing issues of social justice and economic equality during his tenure as the leader of the New Democratic Party.

Gilbert Layton's legacy lives on through his contributions to Quebec's cultural and political landscape. He was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to promoting a more just and equitable society for all Canadians.

Read more about Gilbert Layton on Wikipedia »

Louis-Philippe Brodeur

Louis-Philippe Brodeur (August 21, 1862 Beloeil-January 1, 1924) was a Canadian lawyer and judge.

He was born in Beloeil, Quebec, and obtained his law degree from Université Laval in 1886. He was a member of the Canadian House of Commons for the Quebec riding of Rouville from 1891 to 1911, representing the Liberal party. During this time, he served as Minister of Inland Revenue, Postmaster General, and Minister of Marine and Fisheries. In 1911, he was appointed to the Quebec Superior Court, and was later elevated to the Quebec Court of Appeal in 1915. He retired in 1922 due to ill health, and passed away on January 1, 1924. Throughout his career, Brodeur was known for his contributions to legislative and judicial reforms.

As Minister of Marine and Fisheries, Brodeur was responsible for introducing the first ever wildlife protection legislation in Canada, the Migratory Birds Convention Act, in 1917. He also played a role in the establishment of the Canadian Navy, and was instrumental in the development of the national parks system. Brodeur was a leading advocate for bilingualism in Canada, and worked to ensure that both French and English were treated equally in government and the legal system. In addition to his political and legal career, Brodeur was also an accomplished author, writing several books on legal and historical topics. He was awarded a knighthood in 1914 for his contributions to Canadian public life. Today, he is remembered as a respected jurist and statesman who made significant contributions to the development of Canada as a nation.