The following is a statement from Orillia Mayor Don McIsaac regarding the passing of music legend, Orillia native, and favourite son Gordon Lightfoot:
Our community is deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Gordon Lightfoot. Mr. Lightfoot was highly regarded in his hometown of Orillia and has had an immense impact on our community. His deep roots in our city are woven into the fabric of Orillia with tributes from the Gordon Lightfoot auditorium stage and his bust at our iconic Orillia Opera House, to the Lightfoot Trail and to the Golden Leaves series of bronze sculptures within J.B. Tudhope Memorial Park.
Mr. Lightfoot was an incredible artist and was renowned internationally for his talents in singing, songwriting and had great success in folk and country music.
His homecoming concerts at the Orillia Opera House and appearances at the Mariposa Folk Festival have always been celebrated by Orillians as they welcomed him home.
Many of us who knew him will remember his soft-spoken demeanor, generous personality and infectious laugh.
On behalf of all Orillians, I would like to extend sincere condolences to Gordon Lightfoot’s family, loved ones and friends. Today in Orillia, our community is mourning together along with the rest of the world. We have lowered our flags to half-mast and invite anyone wishing to pay homage to visit the Orillia Opera House to sign the memory book as we celebrate Gordon’s life and the many great contributions he made to our city, country and beyond.
Don McIsaac,
Mayor of Orillia
Condolence Book Signing
The Orillia Opera House (20 Mississaga St. W.) will be open for anyone wishing to pay homage to Gordon Lightfoot:
- Tuesday, May 2, 2023 – 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 3, 2023 – noon to 8 p.m.
Orillia City Centre (50 Andrew St. S.) will have a book of condolences available for signing:
- Thursday, May 4, 2023 – 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Friday, May 5, 2023 – 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Updates will be provided on the City’s website at orillia.ca and on the City’s social media channels.