A Poignant Memorial Service

On a poignant Sunday, approximately 3,000 attendees gathered to honor the life and legacy of John Horgan, the charismatic former premier of British Columbia, who passed away last month at the age of 65 due to cancer. The provincial memorial service took place in Colwood, near the Langford neighborhood where Horgan grew up and dedicated much of his life to public service.

A Diverse Gathering of Remembrance

Among the attendees were dignitaries, Indigenous elders, New Democratic Party (NDP) supporters, and ordinary citizens, all coming together in recognition of Horgan’s profound impact on the province. In line with Horgan’s wishes for a heartfelt, genuine celebration rather than a solemn occasion, the service was filled with anecdotes that showcased his vibrant spirit.

John Horgan's Political Legacy

John Horgan served as the NDP premier from 2017 until 2022, leading British Columbia through significant challenges, including climate disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic, and contentious environmental debates. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, delivering the eulogy, praised Horgan as 'quick-witted and brilliant, but unflinching in his values and beliefs.' His eulogy highlighted not just Horgan’s political acumen, but also his endearing personality, characterized by his love for dad jokes, sports, and the iconic TV series Star Trek.

A Night of Agreement and Legacy

Trudeau recalled a pivotal moment in 2022 when Horgan convinced him to reach an agreement on health care funding—an initiative crucial during the pandemic. Their night filled with 'too many pizzas and not enough beers' at Horgan’s home in Victoria resulted in a multi-billion dollar investment aimed at reducing wait times and enhancing mental health services. 'That was one of his last acts as premier, and I can’t think of a better legacy than that,' Trudeau expressed.

Reflections from Colleagues and Succession

Lieutenant Governor Janet Austin remembered Horgan as a humble leader who wielded power for the right reasons, noting his lack of ego in the face of significant contributions to the province's governance. David Eby, Horgan’s successor and current NDP Premier, marveled at Horgan's enduring popularity, questioning how he managed to leave politics more favored than when he entered. Eby described how Horgan revitalized the NDP from a state of despair into a viable political force after years of electoral defeats.

Milestones and Achievements

During his five years as premier, Horgan achieved remarkable milestones, from transforming relationships with Indigenous nations to implementing policies that eased educational burdens for youth transitioning from government care.

Personal Memories and Family Reflections

The memorial service took a personal turn as Horgan’s family shared touching reflections. His sons, Evan and Nate, stood before the crowd, evoking warmth and applause as they expressed their love and admiration. Evan Horgan, fighting back tears, recalled his father’s lessons on integrity and humility. He remembered the simple words his father imparted: 'Just tell everyone to do their level best.'

A Venue Reflecting His Passion

John Horgan’s fervor for life was distinctly evident in the choice of the Q Centre Arena as the venue—home to his beloved Victoria Shamrocks lacrosse team. There, his reserved seats adorned with jerseys served as a reminder of his deep-rooted love for the sport and his staunch support for local teams, often attending games with his wife, Ellie, sans security detail.

An Early Departure and Lasting Impact

After stepping down as premier, Horgan was appointed as Canada’s ambassador to Germany in 2022, yet his time was cut short following his third battle with cancer, which began in 2008. As the service honored a man remembered for his warmth, humor, and dedication, it underscored the lasting legacy of John Horgan—a leader who was truly 'John from Langford.' His passing leaves a notable void in both the hearts of his family and the fabric of British Columbia’s political landscape.