The City of Brampton Set to Pay Tribute to Tragically Hip Frontman Gord Downie

Published October 19, 2017 at 8:21 pm

Earlier this week (Oct. 18), news broke that Gord Downie, the beloved frontman of the iconic Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip, succumbed to brain cancer on Oct.

Earlier this week (Oct. 18), news broke that Gord Downie, the beloved frontman of the iconic Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip, succumbed to brain cancer on Oct. 17 after a lengthy struggle with the disease.

He was 53.

Now, the City of Brampton is set to honour his memory by hosting a live broadcast of the Long Time Running Tragically Hip documentary at Garden Square at 8:00 p.m. today.

The documentary, originally slated to hit the small screen in November, will be airing on CTV early due to Downie’s passing.

The city is also showcasing an art piece Titled “Ahead by a Century… and a half” by artist Rory O’Connell, which was part of a Muskoka Chair summer art initiative to get Bramptonians involved with beautifying the city.

The screening will no doubt please heartbroken fans of the Canadian rock icon.

On Wednesday, Downie’s family released a statement regarding his passing, letting fans and supporters know that the well-loved musician “quietly passed away with his beloved children and family close by.”

Although the news did not necessarily come as a shock—Downie bravely announced his terminal illness before The Hip’s final tour in 2016—many have been deeply saddened by his passing, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who offered tearful remarks on his death yesterday.

“Gord knew this day was coming – his response was to spend this precious time as he always had – making music, making memories and expressing deep gratitude to his family and friends for a life well lived, often sealing it with a kiss… on the lips,” his family said in a statement.

“Gord said he had lived many lives. As a musician, he lived “the life” for over 30 years, lucky to do most of it with his high school buddies. At home, he worked just as tirelessly at being a good father, son, brother, husband and friend. No one worked harder on every part of their life than Gord. No one.”

Downie’s family concluded their statement by thanking people at Kingston General Hospital and Sunnybrook, Gord’s bandmates, management team, friends and fans.

Those interested in honouring Downie and helping others may also want to do donate to Sunnybrook Hospital’s Gord Downie Fund for Brain Cancer Research.

Long Time Running, a documentary about The Hip’s emotional final tour, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September.

Downie is survived by his four children.

insauga's Editorial Standards and Policies advertising