One of the country’s longest serving parliamentarians, Herb Gray has died.
The Right Honourable Herb Gray had a distinguished 40 year career representing Windsor at the federal level.
Gray was Canada’s first Jewish member of the federal cabinet.
He passed away peacefully at the Ottawa Civic Hospital on Monday.
Former Provincial Finance Minister, Dwight Duncan remembers Gray as a mentor. “He served in the highest offices in the land, but he also never lost sight of the fact that he was a member of parliament. And it's that human legacy I think that people will recall about him."
Windsor West MPP Teresa Piruzza says the news came as a shock. “He was a gentleman's man, everyone knew him, respected him, regardless of political affiliation, he was a great man, and I’m really saddened."
The long-time politician represented Windsor for 13 consecutive terms ending his career in 2002 as the Deputy Prime Minister of Canada.
Federal Liberal Leader, Justin Trudeau was also saddened by the news.
"He has left behind an immense legacy unmatched by most in Canadian History."
Herb Gray is survived by his wife of 46 years Sharon, his two children and eight grandchildren.
The Herb Gray Harmony Award is scheduled to be represented later this week by the Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex.
Named for Windsor`s senior statesman, it annually recognizes a local individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the community.
This year the Herb Gray Harmony Award will recognize Mayor Eddie Francis.
With files from The Canadian Press
