A Provincial Farewell: British Columbia Prepares to Honor Former Premier John Horgan
British Columbia is poised to bid a final farewell to John Horgan, the province’s 36th premier, whose enduring popularity and impactful leadership left an indelible mark on the province’s political landscape. Horgan, who passed away on November 12, 2024, after a valiant battle with cancer, will be honored with a provincial state funeral on December 15th at the Q Centre in Colwood, a location near his hometown of Langford. This public ceremony, a testament to his widespread admiration, offers an opportunity for British Columbians to collectively mourn and celebrate the life and legacy of a remarkable public servant.
The state funeral, a significant event in the province’s calendar, necessitates careful planning and logistical arrangements. While open to the public, attendance requires pre-booked tickets due to anticipated high demand. These free tickets can be secured either through the website of the Victoria Shamrocks, Horgan’s cherished lacrosse team, or by contacting the Office of Protocol directly. Due to limited availability, only two tickets will be issued per person, and no tickets will be distributed at the venue. The doors will open at 11:45 a.m., anticipating the commencement of the service at 1 p.m.
Recognizing that not all who wish to participate can attend in person, Global News will provide comprehensive coverage of the memorial service. A broadcast on BC1 will air between 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m., capturing the poignant moments of the ceremony. Simultaneously, a livestream will be available on globalnews.ca, ensuring accessibility for a wider audience across the province and beyond. This multifaceted approach to broadcasting ensures that those unable to be physically present can still share in the collective mourning and tribute to Horgan’s life.
John Horgan’s journey, culminating in his premiership from July 2017 to November 2022, was marked by significant accomplishments and unwavering public support. His approval ratings, often exceeding 60 percent, underscored his widespread popularity, attributed largely to his adept handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and his dedicated efforts to address pressing affordability issues within the province. These achievements, coupled with his genuine connection with the people he served, solidified his place as one of British Columbia’s most beloved premiers.
Beyond the political arena, Horgan’s life was enriched by personal connections and experiences that shaped his character and leadership style. Prior to his return to Canada for end-of-life care, he served as Canada’s ambassador to Germany, residing in Berlin with his wife, Ellie. This international experience broadened his perspective and further equipped him for the challenges he faced as premier. His subsequent diagnosis with thyroid cancer in June 2024 marked the beginning of a difficult health journey, culminating in his passing at the BC Cancer Centre in Victoria at Royal Jubilee Hospital, a mere five months later.
Following the news of his death, tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, reflecting the profound respect he garnered from colleagues, regardless of party affiliation. Horgan’s ability to connect with people on a personal level, combined with his unwavering dedication to public service, earned him widespread admiration. This ability to transcend political divides speaks volumes about his character and the impact he had on those around him. As a further testament to the enduring respect for Horgan, an online book of condolences has been made available for the public to sign until December 16th, providing an avenue for individuals to express their grief and share their personal reflections on his life and legacy.
The provincial state funeral, the broadcast coverage, and the online book of condolences serve as collective avenues for British Columbians to mourn the loss of a respected leader, celebrate his achievements, and reflect on the enduring impact John Horgan had on their province. His legacy of dedicated public service, his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and his unwavering commitment to the betterment of British Columbia will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come. The outpouring of grief and the numerous tributes reflect the profound impact he had on individuals and the province as a whole. This collective farewell serves as a final tribute to a man whose commitment to public service and unwavering connection with the people left an indelible mark on British Columbia.
