Quebec Remembers: A Year of Loss for Artists, Politicians, and Cultural Icons in 2025
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A wave of notable deaths in 2025 has left a profound mark on Quebec’s cultural and political landscape. From pioneering artists to influential politicians and groundbreaking intellectuals, the province mourned the loss of individuals who collectively shaped its identity and collective memory.
The year saw the passing of figures who not only achieved prominence in their respective fields but also became deeply woven into the fabric of Quebec society. Their contributions spanned generations, leaving behind legacies that will continue to resonate for years to come.
The Voices of a Generation Fall Silent
The music world mourned the loss of Serge Fiori, co-founder of the iconic 1970s rock group Harmonium, who died on June 24th – Quebec’s national holiday – at the age of 73. Fiori’s lyrical depth and innovative musical style defined a generation. As one journalist noted upon his death, “His will remain.” A state funeral on July 15th drew hundreds of mourners, a testament to his enduring impact.
Another beloved figure, Kim Yaroshevskaya, passed away on January 12th. The actress and designer captivated Quebec children for over two decades, bringing to life the beloved Fanfreluche doll and the Grandmother character in the popular Radio-Canada show, Pass-Partout. A Russian native who embraced Quebec as her home, Yaroshevskaya became a cornerstone of youth television in the province.
Shaping Quebec’s Future: Pioneers in Education and Politics
Quebec also said goodbye to Guy Rocher, a towering figure in sociology and the founder of CEGEPs, on October 2nd. The 101-year-old Rocher was instrumental in the Parent Commission, a landmark educational overhaul that defined Quebec’s “Quiet Revolution.” His legacy extends beyond academia, fundamentally reshaping the province’s educational system.
The political arena also experienced significant loss. Marc Garneau, a former Liberal minister and Canada’s first astronaut, died in June at the age of 76. Garneau’s historic journey aboard the space shuttle Challenger in October 1984 cemented his place in Canadian scientific history, before transitioning to a distinguished political career in Ottawa.
In October, Quebec mourned Lise Bacon, the province’s first female vice-premier and a trailblazer for women in politics. Bacon, who served under Robert Bourassa, broke barriers throughout her career, becoming the first woman to lead the Liberal Party of Quebec and the second woman to sit in the National Assembly. She later served as a senator in Ottawa, leaving an indelible mark on Quebec’s political landscape.
Literary and Journalistic Giants Depart
The literary world lost a prolific voice with the death of Victor-Lévy Beaulieu in June. The novelist, essayist, screenwriter, and editor, aged 79, left behind a substantial body of work that resonated with generations of Quebecers. Deeply connected to his hometown of Trois-Pistoles, Beaulieu saw literature as a means of amplifying Quebec’s voice and aspirations.
Quebec’s journalistic community also suffered losses. Pierre Foglia, known for redefining journalistic chronicles, passed away this year. For four decades, Foglia’s human-centered observations, published in The Press, linked everyday events to broader social movements, profoundly influencing Quebec media culture.
Finally, the passing of Jacques Nadeau was keenly felt at Duty, where he worked for many years. Nadeau, a rigorous and discreet photographer, captured current events with a deeply human perspective, focusing on the often-overlooked margins of society. His images not only documented events but also shaped the visual memory of Quebec journalism, embodying a commitment to patience and presence in the field.
The collective loss of these individuals in 2025 serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of those who dedicate themselves to shaping a society’s cultural, political, and intellectual landscape. Their contributions will continue to inspire and inform Quebec for generations to come.
