The Column of Life

Jack Layton, leader of the official opposition in Canada's parliament, died of cancer at the age of 61 on August 22, 2011. His death, although not entirely unexpected, still came as a shock to most of us. He had undergone treatment for prostate cancer previously, but his death was the result of another type of cancer which has not yet been disclosed. "Prime Minister Stephen Harper acknowledged the sheer determination of his 'colleague and friend.' " 'We have all lost an engaging personality and a man of strong principles,' he said. "Harper recalled that Layton was a natural musician. 'And we always talked about getting together to jam. But it seemed we were both always too busy. I will always regret the jam session that never was. That is a reminder, I think, that we must always make time for friends, family and loved ones while we still can.' " Toronto Star In a rare move, Harper offered Olivia Chow, Layton's wido...