Ottawa, January 6, 2011 - It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of the Canadian pianist Donald Himes.
As composer of the theme song for Mr. Dressup, the popular children's show broadcast by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) for almost 30 years, Donald Himes brought pleasure to Canadians of all ages. He also portrayed the Music Man in the Butternut Square program, before dedicating himself to the Mr. Dressup show in 1967.
In addition to sparking the imagination of young Canadians through his music and his television presence, Mr. Himes evolved in the field of music, in Canada and abroad, for more than 40 years. Today, I would like to highlight his contribution to the Canadian cultural scene.
On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I offer my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Donald Himes.
Codie Taylor
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
