Premier Pat Binns says the Province of Prince Edward Island has lost its leading ambassador of goodwill with yesterday’s passing of Urban Carmichael.
“Urban epitomized what it meant to be a proud Islander and he wore the Island flag on his sleeve, whether he was performing at a ceilidh in Monticello or a comedy festival in Montreal,” said the Premier. “His unique mixture of music and story telling, combined with his quick wit, brought smiles and laughter to hundreds of thousands of fans. His passing is a loss for all Islanders.”
“On behalf of all Islanders, I send my condolences and prayers to Urban’s family and many friends.”
The Premier also praised the well-known performer as a proponent of building strong rural communities.
“Urban had an unselfish commitment to Prince Edward Island. I don’t believe he ever said no to a fundraising event or a benefit and would often play two or three events in the same night,” Premier Binns said. “As a Community Development Officer, Urban was dedicated to building community spirit in rural PEI, and a fine example of that was his role in the creation of the Souris Santa Claus Parade.”
As an entertainer, Urban left his mark throughout North America. His successes are numerous, but the Premier said Urban was most proud to work closely with up-and -coming entertainers and to help them succeed in the industry.
“Urban was listening to and playing with entertainers like The Rankin Family and The Barra McNeils long before they became household names across the country,” Premier Binns said. “He took special pride and satisfaction in seeing East Coast talent succeed and was never afraid to share the stage to give exposure to new acts.”
Throughout his life, the Premier said, Urban was a positive role model through his ability to see the good in all things, his love for people, and most of all, his faith was an inspiration for all Islanders.
“Urban always had a story or a joke that could make us laugh and that was when he was most happy,” noted the Premier. “Urban made a positive impact on our culture and a lasting legacy to the performing arts.”