"Today, all Canadians join me in expressing sorrow that a symbol to the world of abiding grace, dignity and personal courage has been taken from us.

The life of the Queen Mother spanned more than a century of breathtaking change and global transformation. Throughout, she was a touchstone of timeless values and continuity. Above all, she will be remembered for her matchless and galvanizing devotion to duty during the darkest hours of World War Two, when Britain, Canada and the Commonwealth stood alone against a seemingly invincible tyranny.

We were blessed by her full life, made richer by her presence and example, and feel a profound sense of loss that her extraordinary spirit is gone.

Aline joins me in extending our deepest sympathies to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, to the Royal Family, and to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth."