The Commissioner of Yukon has issued the following statement:
“On behalf of all Yukoners, I would like to offer our deepest sympathy on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“Her Majesty was greatly loved by all Her Yukoners who recall with great joy her historic visit to our territory in July 1959 when she visited with the Duke of Edinburgh. In Whitehorse, they visited the MacBride Museum, enjoyed a train ride to McCrae on the White Pass & Yukon Route train, passing the Whitehorse rapids, Miles Canyon and the new hydro dam. They saw First Nations cultural presentations and met with residents. The Duke of Edinburgh visited the Christ Church Cathedral and the Old Log Church in Whitehorse and flew to Dawson and Mayo on his own, as the Queen was suffering from morning sickness, as she was pregnant with Prince Andrew, the Duke of York.
“Her service to Canada and the Commonwealth will always remain a testament to her solemn dedication to serving her peoples around the globe with dignity, grace, and humility. She demonstrated it was possible for women to hold important positions while raising a family. She was a model for many women, young and old.
“During her lifetime, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was a witness to the history of Canada. She has seen our country grow and mature while remaining true to its history, its distinctive character, and its values.
“She had an enduring and deeply rooted connection with Canadians. Her genuine affection for our country and its people extended beyond her role as a sovereign. Canadians recognize this heartfelt kinship and have reciprocated with great fondness and admiration. We share with the other peoples of the Commonwealth the profound sorrow at her passing.
“Canada and Canadians were a constant presence in Her Majesty’s life and work, and she had so many vivid memories and a tremendous sense of pride in being part of the Canadian family. This is a relationship she came to treasure and a country for which she had a deep and abiding affection.
“For many Canadians, she was the only monarch they have known. She was an active participant in Canadian life.
“Her reign as Queen of Canada for 70 years was the epitome of stability, continuity, and service for which Her Majesty was held in great respect and affection by Canada and its people.”