Saint Croix MLA Greg Thompson, who served at both the provincial and federal level, has died at the age of 72.
Thompson was elected last September and was later named Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs.
“Greg exuded a stubborn determination to do what was right for his constituents, and their concerns were always at the top of his mind,” said Premier Blaine Higgs in a statement. “Defending his community was priority number one.”
Thompson previously served six terms as the Member of Parliament in New Brunswick Southwest and Carleton-Charlotte before retiring in 2010. He spent nearly four years as veterans affairs minister between 2006 and 2010.
But Higgs said one of the biggest battles of Thompson’s life came in the mid-1990s when he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.
“The illness exacted a toll but with the support and love of his family, he survived because he knew his work was not done,” he said.
Higgs said Thompson’s trademark passion for serving others was evident and they were blessed by his presence.
“His disarming smile, sense of humour, and ability to relate with those from any walk of life are characteristics that we will dearly miss,” he said.
A book of condolences will be at the legislature in Fredericton beginning at noon Wednesday. It will remain available to the public until the day of the funeral.
Flags at all provincial government buildings will be flown at half-mast until sunset on the day of the funeral.
Sad to hear that Greg Thompson passed away. A good man with a clear mind and strong convictions who devoted his life in public service. I hope his family will see his life reflected in the changes he made to better his county, province and country.
— Dominic Cardy 🇨🇦 🇺🇦 🇹🇼 (@DominicCardy) September 11, 2019
Deeply saddened by news of my friend + college Ex NB MP, MLA Greg Thompson's passing. A passionate family man who always defended interests of NB, Vets +those in need. A ferocious friend + formidable foe in politics who always acted w principal. Condolences to Linda +loved ones.
— Peter MacKay (@PeterMacKay) September 11, 2019
Greg Thompson was a fair & kind man and a passionate advocate for his community, province, and country – I was sorry to hear of his passing this morning. My heart goes out to his loved ones.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) September 11, 2019
Sad to hear of the passing of Greg Thompson, who served with me for 15 years in the House of Commons and as my counterpart in the Government of N.B. Greg was passionate about public service, and was always fair and kind. My condolences to his family, friends, and close ones.
— Dominic LeBlanc (@DLeBlancNB) September 11, 2019
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