Title: Former Chief of Staff Nigel Wright Passes Away at 62
OTTAWA — Nigel Wright, who was chief of staff to former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, has died at the age of 62. His passing was confirmed by Onyx Corporation, where he spent much of his career. Wright served in Harper's office from 2010 to 2013 and became embroiled in a Senate expense scandal when it was disclosed that he repaid $90,000 in expenses for Mike Duffy, a Conservative senator at the time.
Bobby Le Blanc, president and CEO of Onyx Corporation, expressed condolences in a statement, saying, "Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of our cherished colleague and friend, Nigel. He was the consummate gentleman who set the standard for professionalism."
Tributes to Wright quickly emerged on social media from various individuals connected to Harper's administration. Ken Boessenkool, a senior policy advisor for Harper, described Wright's death as "a stunning and massive loss." He added, "Nigel Wright was one of Canada’s most selfless individuals. He contributed mightily to Canadian conservatism, mostly quietly, always modestly."
Dimitri Soudas, a former spokesman for Harper, remembered Wright as the "hardest working person" he had ever known. He noted, "(F)irst one in, last one out … His sharp mind and unwavering dedication left a mark on all of us who had the privilege to work alongside him."
Wright's contributions to Canadian politics and his professional demeanor have left a lasting impact on those who knew him. His legacy will be remembered by colleagues and friends alike.