Winnipeg MP Jim Carr dies after battle with cancer

A statement from Carr's family posted on his Twitter account Monday says he passed away on Monday surrounded by his family and loved ones. He was 71 years old.

The statement from his family says Carr was battling multiple myeloma and kidney failure since 2019.

"Over the past three years, he fought these diseases bravely and courageously with the incredible support of his staff, colleagues and loved ones," the statement reads.

Carr had announced in 2019 that he had been diagnosed with the form of blood cancer, which also affects the kidneys. At the time, he said he had started chemotherapy and dialysis, but said his spirits were high.

His death was announced in the House of Commons by fellow Winnipeg MP Kevin Lamoureux, who asked for a moment of silence and a prayer.

Carr was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in Manitoba in 1988, representing Fort Rouge for four years. He was later elected as a Liberal Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre in October 2015. He served in various roles on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's cabinet including as Minister of Natural Resources, Minister of International Trade Diversification, and special envoy to Prairies.

He was removed from Trudeau's cabinet in 2021, and at the time, said he respected the Prime Minister's decision.

"Right up until the very end of his remarkable life, he was fighting for Winnipeggers, Manitobans and Canadians," his family said in a statement.

They pointed to Carr's most recent success in the House of Commons – passing his private member's bill on Dec. 8 focused on building a green prairie economy.

"As a dedicated elected official, business, and community leader in Manitoba for over 30 years, Jim was loved and respected by so many and we know he will be profoundly missed," the statement from his family reads.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted this his team lost a valued member, the country lost a dedicated Parliamentarian, and many people have lost a close friend.

“Jim Carr’s passion, tenacity, integrity, humour, and commitment to the Prairies were second to none – and we’ll miss him dearly,” he said.

'A TRUE LOSS': POLITICIANS SHARE CONDOLENCES

Dougald Lamont, leader of Manitoba's Liberal party, posted a tribute on Twitter Monday.

"He worked tirelessly for Manitoba until his last days," Lamont said, passing along his condolences to Carr's family. "A true loss."

Manitoba's Premier Heather Stefanson also shared her condolences on Twitter.

"Over the years Jim (and) I worked on many projects together," Stefanson said. "I always admired his unfailing commitment to the betterment of Winnipeg, Manitoba (and) Canada."

Dan Vandal, MP for Saint Boniface-Saint Vital, took to Twitter to say his “dear friend” is gone too soon.

“The world has lost a giant. A true statesman, a devoted husband and father, a dear friend and mentor,” his tweet said.

“Our country is a better place because of you and you will be missed."

Quebec MP Marc Garneau tweeted that his best memory of Carr was when he asked him if he brought music to space, with Garneau, a former astronaut mentioning Marcello’s Oboe concert.

Carr then said he played the oboe, so they came up with the idea for him to play the 2nd movement at the Liberal National Caucus.

“He was excellent. A sweet moment,” Garneau said.

Leah Gazan, MP for Winnipeg Centre, tweeted that she is saddened to learn about Carr’s death. She noted that Carr was dedicated to serving his constituents.

“My love and condolences go out to his family, friends, staff and colleagues. May he rest in peace,” the tweet said.

 

-with files from the Canadian Press