Former British Columbia premier and ambassador to Germany John Horgan has died at the age of 65, after his third bout with cancer.
According to a statement posted to social media by Horgan’s former press secretary, the Horgan family says their “hearts are broken to announce the passing of our beloved Husband, Father, and Friend, John Horgan.”
“John passed away peacefully this morning at Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria,” the family explained.
“The wellbeing of British Columbia and everyone in it was everything to him. He was surrounded by family, friends and love in his final days. Ellie and the rest of John’s family ask for privacy during this time,” they said.
“‘Live Long and Prosper.’”
Horgan served as B.C.’s New Democrat premier for five years before stepping down in 2022, then was appointed ambassador last year.
In June, Horgan announced he was on leave after being diagnosed with thyroid cancer.
In a statement, current Premier David Eby shared that the news of Horgan’s passing “leaves us with heavy hearts.”
“John loved this province and its people. He sought to address injustice wherever he saw it – using his time in office to help build a better, stronger British Columbia for everyone,” Eby shared.
“His many accomplishments as premier will be felt for years and generations to come. His achievements are too numerous to mention, but he was a consequential premier at a critical time in our history. He encouraged all of us to strive to be our better selves,” he continued.
“We share our sadness and grief with his beloved wife, Ellie, with whom he shared 45 years of adventure. It was not time enough. Ellie is in our thoughts and prayers, as are his sons Evan and Nate, the rest of his family and his many, many friends.
“The flag at the Parliament Buildings will be lowered to half-mast in honour of John Horgan, and opportunities for British Columbians to offer their condolences will be shared with the public. We will be working with John’s family and the office of protocol to announce the timing of services to mark the passing of John Horgan.”
You can watch CityNews 24/7 live or listen live to 1130 NewsRadio Vancouver to keep up to date with this story. You can also subscribe to breaking news alerts sent directly to your inbox.