Layton remembered fondly by Torontonians
News of Jack Layton's death was met with shock and sadness on Monday in Toronto, the city where the federal leader first cut his political teeth as a firebrand city councillor.
Layton died early Monday in his Toronto home after a battle with cancer. He was 61.
On the street outside Layton's constituency office, flowers began to gather shortly after the news broke on Monday.
One woman who spoke to CBC News said she will cherish the memory of election night, when Layton led the NDP to official opposition status for the first time in the party's history.
"When he came into the auditorium it was a pleasure to see him leap up on stage. He obviously must have been in pain at that point. He was just full of vigour and that sense of 'hey, we've really done something,'" she said.
"We often don't think highly of our politicians but I think the spirit of Jack will come through every time. He'll be very much missed."
While people on the streets of Toronto were stricken by the news, tributes and condolences poured into CBC from politicians who worked and at times battled against Layton.
Two former Toronto mayors, David Miller and Mel Lastman, where among the many political figures to send messages of condolence.
Miller said he was "extremely saddened" to hear of Layton's death.
"His progressive leadership — and his personal courage and relentless optimism — are going to be very much missed," said Miller in a statement. "Whether as a city councillor or as an MP, Jack always fought hard, and successfully, to make a better world for all Torontonians and Canadians."
"As a councillor, his leadership in fighting against homelessness and for our environment both resulted in permanent change for the better."
Lastman, who also served with Layton during his time on city council, said he will remember Layton as a politician who "strongly believed in the things that he said and did, unlike many other elected officials."
"I saw firsthand his deep commitment to helping improve the lives of so many people especially those who were struggling and living on the street."
