Gordon Lightfoot, Choirboy

                                                       Gordon Lightfoot, St. Paul's Choirboy

It's hard to miss that Gordon Lightfoot died earlier this week. He was undoubtedly one of the finest folk/rock musicians, ever. He was a poet about this country and a minstrel about love and heartache. Bob Dylan loved his songs. Pierre Berton claimed that he told the story of the building of the railway across the country brilliantly in The Canadian Railroad Trilogy. Elvis, Barbara Streisand, The Grateful Dead, and Harry Belafonte, who also died recently, all covered his songs. 

The tributes to Gordon Lightfoot haven't shied away from the reality that he had his demons, including alcohol. Ruth attended a Lightfoot concert at Grant Hall on the campus of Queen's University back in the pre-me days and he was so inebriated he could barely perform. We both enjoyed his music just the same and he deserved the acclaim which included Grammy and Juno awards. . 

                                                                      Sundown album cover

Gordon was no choirboy, except that he was. In fact he was part of the St. Paul's United Church junior choir in Orillia, his hometown. His vocal talents were quickly recognized and he began the steady climb to the fame and fortune which he conceded wreaked havoc on relationships. 

When the congregation celebrated its 175th anniversary a few years ago Lightfoot took part, which was generous on his part, as a recognition of his musical roots. 

In some respects his connection with this community of faith has come full circle. Tomorrow fans will have the opportunity to visit St. Paul's 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. to pass by the closed casket and pay their respects. 

Yes, Gordon Lightfoot had his failings and his demons, but we all do in our ways, some of them more public than others. That's why we seek forgiveness and accept the grace of Christ. 

                       The Three Gordons, Downie, Lightfoot, Pinsent -- painting by Gordon Pinsent