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3w ago

Marc Garneau Dies at 76 After Short Fight With Lymphoma and Leukemia

His passing underscores a legacy defined by groundbreaking spaceflights, leadership at the Canadian Space Agency, a decade in federal cabinet, environmental advocacy, inspiring public service.

Marc Garneau was the most visible symbol of Canada’s space program, first as an astronaut and then as the president of the Canadian Space Agency.
Minister of Transport Marc Garneau responds to a question during Question Period in the House of Commons in Ottawa, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld
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Garneau became the first Canadian to go into space, and was later a deputy director of the Canadian astronaut program.

Overview

  • He was diagnosed with two rare cancers earlier this year and died peacefully on June 4, 2025, after a rapid decline in health.
  • As the first Canadian in space, he flew on three NASA Space Shuttle missions, beginning with the 1984 Challenger flight.
  • Garneau served as president of the Canadian Space Agency from 2001 to 2005 before representing a Montreal riding as a Liberal MP from 2008 to 2023.
  • Members of Parliament held successive moments of silence and leaders across parties praised his integrity, humility and service.
  • His view of Earth from orbit informed his environmental advocacy and his career continues to inspire future generations in science and public life.