Hazel McCallion’s funeral to be held Tuesday. Here’s what you need to know

The state funeral will begin at the Paramount Fine Foods Centre at 11 a.m, and will be open to both dignitaries and members of the public. Follow the Star for live updates.

Thestar.com
Feb. 14, 2023
Noor Javed

Hazel McCallion, the longtime mayor of Mississauga, will be laid to rest today on what would have been her 102nd birthday.

The state funeral will begin at the Paramount Fine Foods Centre at 11 a.m, and will be open to both dignitaries and members of the public.

Premier Doug Ford, the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario Elizabeth Dowdeswell and Mississauga mayor Bonnie Crombie are expected to speak. Mayor

John Tory is scheduled to attend but is not expected to speak. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and former prime minister Jean Chrétien will also be in attendance.

Signage for the book of condolences is on display as the late Hazel McCallion lies in state.

McCallion passed away peacefully on Jan 29 at her home in Mississauga.

A family friend confirmed she died of pancreatic cancer, which she was diagnosed with around Christmas.

A woman of small stature, McCallion was affectionately known as “Hurricane Hazel,” for her decades of public service and leadership as the head of one of Canada’s fastest-growing cities.

She was adored by the residents of Mississauga, who voted for her for 12 consecutive terms --acclaimed twice -- with residents won over by her personable style, her frankness and her boundless energy.

McCallion left elected politics in December 2014, at age 93, after 36 years as Mississauga mayor, but barely slowed down. She served on numerous boards and committees, and became the first chancellor of Sheridan College, which named a campus after her.

A number of politicians across the political spectrum have paid respects to McCallion while her body was laid in repose at Mississauga City Hall since Sunday, including federal and provincial ministers and mayors of other municipalities.

Ford’s office has said flags will be flown at half-mast across the province on the day of her funeral.

Tickets for the funeral became available on Ticketmaster on Thursday

Tickets are required for members of the public who wish to attend the state funeral.

This is a developing story.