Marion Dewar, still active and energetic at the age of 80, died today after falling in Toronto where she was attending the International Film Festival.
My earliest encounters with Marion Dewar were when she served as the school nurse at Earl of March Secondary School, where I was a student for awhile. I remember her as a wise, compassionate and generous soul. I was a shy kid and I had things I couldn’t talk to anybody about, but her door was always open, her smile was always genuine and she always had time for us kids. I didn’t talk to her about the things I couldn’t talk to anybody about, but there were days I just needed a place of refuge, and her office was it.
She went on to accomplish great things in community development, politics and the non-profit sector. In my opinion, she was the best mayor Ottawa has ever had, because she had that rare combination of vision, smarts and heart. We could use more politicians who bring those qualities to the table.
Here she is with her son Paul, who is running for re-election next month as the NDP Member of Parliament in my riding, Ottawa Centre. I can’t even imagine trying to campaign and grieve at the same time.
Rest in peace Marion. The world is a better place because of you.
That was a lovely eulogy Zoom!
Although I didn’t know Mrs. Dewar, I had much respect for her heart and was saddened to hear of her death.
Good post. It’d be nice to be respected like that.
Very nice, Zoom. I’m sorry I missed the Dewar years in Ottawa, because from what I’ve been reading she was really something special.
I am so glad that you wrote this. I was saddened to hear of her death. Ottawa (and Canada) has lost a fine woman … and a politician others should emulate.
“I can’t even imagine trying to campaign and grieve at the same time.”
I was thinking this, but could not think of the right way of expressing it. Thanks for doing it for me.