June 8, 2013 - Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:
“It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Paul Cellucci after a long and courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
“I had the chance to work with Ambassador Cellucci when I was a minister in the province of Ontario. I can attest to the fact he was a great friend to Canada, and we are grateful for his contributions to the bilateral relationship, both as ambassador and as governor of Massachusetts.
“On behalf of all Canadians, Canada offers condolences and prayers to his wife Jan, to his daughters Kate and Anne, and to his extended family and many friends around the world.”
Ambassador Cellucci served as the top American diplomat to Canada at the critical time of 9/11 and its aftermath.
Canada is pleased that the Massachusetts Senate has voted to establish a Department of Public Health ALS registry in Mr. Cellucci’s name. It will be a fitting tribute to the courage and dedication of a man who raised millions of dollars to help fund research into this unforgiving disease.
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