By Winnipeg Sun
Former Premier of Manitoba Sterling Lyon has died at age 83. (Winnipeg Sun Files)
Former Premier of Manitoba Sterling Lyon has died at age 83.
Lyon's family issued a press release announcing that the accomplished political leader passed away Thursday at the Grace Hospital.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Sterling Lyon, loving husband, father and grandfather, and passionate public servant, at the age of 83 following a brief illness," said the press release. “Dad was deeply committed to public service and known for his strong will in pursuit of the public good. But as his family we were always blessed to know him as a devoted and loving husband, father and a grandfather."
The family expects to announce funeral plans soon.
Lyon was born on Jan. 30, 1927 in Windsor, Ont. but grew up in Portage La Prairie. He moved to Winnipeg after high school and received a law degree from the Manitoba Law School in 1953.
Lyon worked as a reporter then and Crown attorney before entering public office in 1958.
In 1977, he became Premier of Manitoba.
After his political career, he worked as a judge on the Manitoba Court of Appeal and was inducted into the Order of Manitoba in 2002.
Lyon is survived by his five children – Nancy, Andrea, Peter, Jennifer and Jonathon, their partners and spouses, and his six grandchildren.
The Progressive Conservatives, who Lyon once led in Manitoba, issued a statement shortly after the announcement, stating Lyon will be missed for his contributions to the province and the party.
"His passionate commitment to public service is a strong example to young Manitobans," said PC leader Hugh McFadyen in a press release.
Premier Greg Selinger said flags at the legislature have been lowered to half-mast in honour of Lyon, a "true champion."
"In his politics, his eloquence and debating skills in the legislative chamber set a standard many politicians often strived to achieve but which few, if any, ever met," said Selinger in a press release.
Federal Public Safety Minister Vic Toews also expressed his condolences.
"Sterling was a great Manitoban who was deeply dedicated to public service and worked hard for our province," said Toews in a press release. "During his time as Premier, he played a strong role in the repatriation of the constitution and in the creation of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which both continue to have an impact on Canadians today."
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