Eddie Goldenberg, a long-time political adviser and former chief of staff to former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, has died at the age of 77 after a battle with cancer. Goldenberg’s passing was announced on Thursday by Randy Pettipas, CEO of Global Public Affairs, the firm where Goldenberg had worked since 2024.

Jean Chrétien paid tribute to Goldenberg as both a close friend and a dedicated public servant, emphasizing his commitment to improving Canada rather than seeking personal fame or wealth. “The debt I owe to him as a successful political and government leader is incalculable,” Chrétien said, recalling Goldenberg’s influential role over five decades. Goldenberg served first as Chrétien’s senior policy adviser for ten years before assuming the position of chief of staff during Chrétien’s tenure as prime minister from 1993 to 2003.

Goldenberg’s involvement in landmark Canadian political achievements was highlighted by Chrétien, who credited him for contributions to the patriation of the Constitution and the creation of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in the 1980s, as well as helping to restore Canada’s fiscal health and guiding the adoption of the Clarity Act.

Born in Montreal, Goldenberg was the son of Carl Goldenberg, a lawyer and former senator. He joined Chrétien’s office in 1972 while still a law student at McGill University, initially taking a summer position that evolved into a decades-long partnership. Goldenberg chronicled this experience in his 2006 memoir, describing himself as an adviser, confidant, and lifelong friend to Chrétien.

Following Chrétien’s prime ministership, Goldenberg returned to legal practice, holding senior positions at Ottawa-based law firms Stikeman Elliott LLP and Bennett Jones LLP. More recently, he was active at Global Public Affairs, where he worked on a range of projects, including collaborating with former Governor General David Johnston and cancer researcher Alan Bernstein to attract world-class researchers to Canadian universities.

Jason Kenney, former federal Conservative cabinet minister and Alberta premier, also expressed his condolences, recognizing Goldenberg’s deep patriotism and commitment to public service despite their political differences. Kenney described Goldenberg as a colleague and friend who shared a mutual respect and love for Canada.

Chrétien extended his sympathies to Goldenberg’s wife, Caroline Weber, and his family, closing his statement with the French farewell, “Au revoir mon camarade.”