Within hours of the news of Jim Prentice’s death breaking, tributes began pouring in, through social media and in statements.
Alberta premier Rachel Notley issued a statement, saying she had spoken with Prentice’s wife Karen, and expressed “the profound sorrow and sympathy I feel, and that I know all Albertans feel, in the face of this unspeakable tragedy.”
“There are no words adequate for moments like this, as my family knows very well.
“But there are words to remember Premier Prentice’s contributions to Alberta. He served our province in so many roles for so many years. He deeply loved Alberta. He worked tirelessly for all of us, in the true spirit of one who is committed to public service. I benefitted from his advice, and the Government of Alberta is continuing to pursue many of his initiatives. All Albertans are the better for this.”
Notley went on to say the province was working on a way to remember Prentice’s career and contributions.
“But today our thoughts are with his family. With Karen and their daughters Christina, Cassia and Kate. And with two grandchildren who will have much to be proud of in their grandfather.”
PC Interim Leader Ric McIver also released a statement, which was sent out by the provincial government:
“We are heartbroken to learn that former Premier Jim Prentice has lost his life in a tragic accident yesterday evening.
“Jim was a friend and mentor to us all and his dedication to public service was an inspiration to everyone who had the honour of working with him. As the Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre-North, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, Minister of Industry, Minister of Environment and as Alberta’s 16th Premier, he made significant contributions to his community on both the provincial and federal levels.
“Beyond this dedication and commitment to public service, Jim was a kind and generous man who always put his family first, our deepest sympathies are with his wife Karen, their daughter and the entire Prentice family.”
Edmonton Mayor Don Iveson sent out a statement Friday afternoon, saying he was shocked to hear news of Prentice’s death:
“Our thoughts are with the family and close friends of all victims as they come to terms with this sudden news.
“Jim was a dedicated public servant who worked tirelessly to build a better country and province. He was a consummate professional and someone who loved Alberta and believed deeply in its potential. His reasoned, pragmatic voice in Canadian politics will be sorely missed.
“I join all Canadians in sending our deepest condolences to Karen and the rest of the Prentice family.”
A short time after news broke of Prentice’s death, condolences started surfacing on social media.
Former Prime Minister Stephen Harper sent out his statement through a video posted on Twitter:
Laureen and I were shocked and saddened to learn of the death of our friend and colleague Jim Prentice. pic.twitter.com/NgABNhzTBM
— Stephen Harper (@stephenharper) October 14, 2016
Both the University of Alberta and University of Calgary sent out their condolences.
Saddened to hear about the passing of former premier and alumnus Jim Prentice. Our condolences to his friends and family. pic.twitter.com/6drkEiepJM
— UniversityofAlberta (@UAlberta) October 14, 2016
The president of the University of Calgary issued a statement in response to the news.
On behalf of UCalgary, President Cannon extends condolences to family of Jim Prentice as we mourn his passing. https://t.co/dQMbPCzLZd pic.twitter.com/uRmzaeZ9fO
— U Calgary (@UCalgary) October 14, 2016
Former PC MLA, and one of the candidates who lost the leadership of the provincial party to Prentice Thomas Lukaszuk tweeted as the news broke.
My family's and my deepest condolences go out to Jim Prentice's wife, children and loved ones. Today, all Albertans are united in grief.
— Thomas A. Lukaszuk (@LukaszukAB) October 14, 2016
On Twitter, two of Prentice’s former cohorts, the premiers of Saskatchewan and Ontario, issued their condolences.
Shocked & saddened at the loss of @JimPrentice. Our deepest sympathies to his family,friends & all our AB neighbours pic.twitter.com/ZKE7HfTsCa
— Brad Wall (@PremierBradWall) October 14, 2016
Ardent Albertan; patriotic Canadian; devoted public servant & loving father. My heart goes out to Jim Prentice’s family today. Such a loss.
— Kathleen Wynne (@Kathleen_Wynne) October 14, 2016
Prentice’s former colleague in Ottawa, John Baird, also sent out his condolences.
Devastated to learn of the death of my friend & former colleague @JimPrentice. My thoughts & prayers are with his wife Karen and his family. pic.twitter.com/pNbmkBxeDL
— John Baird (@Baird) October 14, 2016