Prime Minister Chrétien pays tribute to the late Pietro Rizzuto


August 3, 1997
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien today paid tribute to the Senator Pietro Rizzuto, who passed away this morning in Montréal.

"I was shocked and deeply saddened today when I learned of the sudden death of my old and dear friend, Pietro Rizzuto. His life was an example of achievement that embodied the best of our national traditions. He came to Canada from Italy as a young man and built a prosperous life and a fine family. The welcome he received in his new home inspired him to become actively involved in public life. For Pietro, diversity was always a source of strength and enrichment and he devoted himself to bringing diverse cultural communities closer together, especially in Quebec.

I was always impressed by Pietro's profound affection for Canada and count myself fortunate to have had the benefit of his wise counsel. I will miss him greatly."

Prime Minister Chrétien and Mrs. Aline Chrétien extend their heartfelt condolences to Senator Rizzuto's wife, Giuseppina, and his children, Melina, Alfonso and Maria Cristina.

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PMO Press Office: (613) 957-5555



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