Hon. Amina Gerba: I’m going to change the subject and speak on a slightly sadder note, while also acknowledging our esteemed colleague’s departure.

Honourable senators, I rise today to pay posthumous tribute to an extraordinary man, Gilles Lemieux, founder and CEO of Les Troubadours choir and resident of my senatorial division in Rigaud, Quebec, who passed away on October 2 at the age of 85.

The sad news of his passing reached me just a few weeks after I presented him with the King Charles III Coronation Medal at LaSalle City Hall on August 14.

At the ceremony, his family said it was the first and only distinction he had ever received and a moment of immense pride for him and his loved ones. A man of passion, Mr. Lemieux dedicated his life to enriching our community through his music. Under his leadership, Les Troubadours choir became a symbol of togetherness and joy. His vision and commitment have left a lasting mark on the city of LaSalle and beyond. Mr. Lemieux’s departure is a great loss for his children, Chantal, Jean Gilles, Pierre and Marc, his five grandchildren and his wife, Denise, who supported him on a daily basis. I would like to express my deepest condolences to his entire bereaved family and to all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, dearest Gilles, and thank you.