Just days after the passing of former BC premier John Horgan, the province has opened a physical and digital book of condolences to honour his memory.
Members of the public are invited to share their sympathies and reflections for Horgan, who was known for his dedicated service as BC’s 36th premier.
The physical book of condolences is located in the Hall of Honour in the BC legislature building, opening to the public today.
Visitors will be able to sign the book on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., offering residents a chance to pay respects in person. This book will remain open until the day after a memorial service is held, though the exact date for that service has not yet been confirmed.
John Horgan believed in the power of public service. He saw it as a privilege, as a way to help others and to make our country better.
He loved British Columbia. As Premier, he had a tenacity, passion, and dedication for his work that very few could match. Through the pandemic,… pic.twitter.com/cj1M6sRC0D
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 12, 2024
For those unable to visit the legislature, an online book of condolences is available on the province’s website, where messages and memories can be shared.
All entries from both the physical and digital books will be compiled and presented to Horgan’s family as a tribute to his legacy.
Horgan passed away on November 12th at the age of 65, after courageously battling a third round of cancer.
Known for his warm humour and commitment to the people of BC, Horgan served as premier from 2017 to 2022, stepping down after his second bout with cancer to focus on his health. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Ellie, and their two sons.
It is with great sadness that we have learned about the passing of our dear Ambassador, John Horgan. He brought such positive energy to the Canada-Germany relation, and his kindness will remain in our hearts.
Our deepest condolences to his wife Ellie, and sons, Evan and Nate. pic.twitter.com/KVVRThCqJ6— Canada in Germany (@CanEmbGermany) November 13, 2024
Push to name new university after John Horgan
A movement is gaining momentum to permanently honour former premier John Horgan by naming a new university in Langford after him.
Stew Young, Langford’s former mayor, and local resident Steve Rossander have taken the lead on this initiative, with Rossander designing a mock-up image of “John Horgan University of Langford.”
This design has quickly gained traction, amassing tens of thousands of views and hundreds of supportive comments on social media within hours.
This university, which remains unnamed for now, is under construction in Langford and represents a collaborative effort between the provincial government, Camosun College, the University of Victoria, and Royal Roads University. Set to open in the spring, the university is intended to expand educational opportunities on Vancouver Island, a vision that aligns with Horgan’s dedication to the people of B.C.
If successful, naming the university after Horgan would be a lasting tribute to his legacy and commitment to British Columbia. His dedication to public service, combined with his warm humour and down-to-earth nature, resonated widely, making this proposal a fitting memorial in his honour.
