Canadians remember Jack Layton

Canadians across the country have been expressing their affection and sadness for NDP Leader Jack Layton ever since news broke that he died on Monday morning in his Toronto home.
 
Canadians have shared fond memories and sent condolences through news outlets and social networking sites. Social media acted quickly as a way to organize mourners for candlelight vigils and tributes in cities across the nation.
 
A letter written by Layton only two days before he died of cancer has touched the hearts of many. In it he addressed the future of the NDP and offered words of hope for Canada’s future through its youth. He also spoke of his fight with prostate cancer and endorsed the care he was given despite losing the battle.
 
Politicians from across the political spectrum have spoken in support of Layton’s work ethic and contribution to Canadian politics.
 
He is credited with carrying his party to Official Opposition status in the latest election. His powerful rhetoric especially during the French and English language debates propelled his party to 103 seats including 59 in Quebec.
 
On July 25th he announced that he would step down temporarily to focus on beating a second diagnosis of cancer. Hull/Aylmer MP Nycole Turmel took over the party on an interim basis and will continue to lead before a leadership convention takes place.
 
The government will hold a rare state funeral for Layton this Saturday in Toronto.