Champlain Flags Flying At Half-Mast In Honour Of Her Majesty

Champlain Township, September 8, 2022—Flags at all Champlain Township buildings are being flown at half mast, following the tragic death of Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away at the age of 96 at Balmoral Castle, today, September 8, 2022, after 70 years on the throne.

She is succeeded by her eldest son and heir, the Prince of Wales, who becomes King Charles III. Her Majesty's death comes after one of the most significant periods of her reign, in which she rallied the nation during the coronavirus pandemic, and felt the affection of her people as she returned to public life after the death of her beloved Prince Philip and celebrated her Platinum Jubilee year.

In a statement, Charles, who became King upon the death of his mother, said: “We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved Mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.”

Royal officials have confirmed that Britain’s new monarch will be known as King Charles III, ending speculation about whether would use another name during his reign. The late Queen Elizabeth II said earlier this year that she hoped Charles’ wife Camilla, would be known as queen consort.

“Champlain Township joins fellow members of the Commonwealth in mourning his death and extends heartfelt condolences to all members of the Royal Family,” states Mayor Normand Riopel. 

Queen Elizabeth II became queen on February 6, 1952, and was crowned on June 2, 1953. The Queen dedicated her life to her royal duty. She was the first British monarch in history to reach her Platinum Jubilee and died just three months after the national celebrations in June celebrating her 70 years on the throne. The Queen was also the longest-reigning still-serving monarch in the world.

“She would proclaim ‘it was good to be home’ when returning to her beloved Canada. She was indeed at home here, and Canadians never ceased to return her affection.” PM Trudeau said, adding that “Her Majesty’s reign spanned so many decades – a period when we came into our own as a confident, diverse, and forward-looking country. It is her wisdom, compassion, and warmth that we will always remember and cherish. Today, a page has not only been turned, but a chapter in our shared history has drawn to a close. I know Her Majesty’s service to Canada and Canadians will forever remain an important part of our country’s history.”

 Township flags will remain at half-mast until the day of the me­morial service.