HALIFAX -- The Nova Scotia government says a celebration of the life of former premier and senator John Buchanan will be held Friday at Dalhousie University's Rebecca Cohn Auditorium.
Buchanan, who served as premier from 1978 to 1990, winning four consecutive majorities, died Thursday at the age of 88.
A live webcast of the celebration service, which is to begin at 1 p.m., will be available at novascotia.ca.
As well, a book of condolence is available in the foyer at the provincial legislature in Halifax for Nova Scotians wanting to write messages to the family.
People wishing to leave messages of condolence can also do so online at novascotia.ca/prot.
Buchanan, who is survived by his wife Mavis and five children, was a Halifax lawyer before entering politics.
He was known for his outgoing personality and folksy manner, and those traits were fondly remembered at the Nova Scotia legislature Friday shortly after news of his death broke. Members of the legislature stood for a moment of silence in tribute and respect.
Liberal Premier Stephen McNeil called his Progressive Conservative predecessor "a true champion of Nova Scotia." He said Buchanan would be best remembered for his ability to be "connected to a place and connected to people."
Buchanan stepped down as premier in 1990 to accept a Senate appointment as controversy engulfed his government.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 7, 2019.
