TORONTO - Hundreds of people have begun a slow, steady march behind former Toronto mayor Rob Ford’s casket as it makes its way to a downtown cathedral for his funeral service.
The procession, which includes members of Ford’s family, politicians and members of the public, comes after Ford’s casket lay in repose for two days at city hall — an honour granted only a few times in the past.
Ford, a controversial larger-than-life politician, died from cancer last week at age 46.
He had become an international celebrity in recent years in light of his admitted crack cocaine use, alcohol abuse, lewd comments and at times outrageous behaviour that transformed his office into an unprecedented spectacle.
But much of the divisive feelings over Ford appeared outweighed by positive emotions Wednesday as many gathered to pay their last respects.
Members of the crowd at city hall sporadically broke into song, applauded and chanted “mayor for life.”
Some cheered when Ford’s wife blew kisses to the masses as her husband’s flag-draped casket was lifted into a hearse. Ford’s two children, his mother, brother and other family members — some of them sobbing quietly — stood nearby.
Long lines had also formed outside St. James Cathedral, where a service for Ford is set to begin at noon.
Evelyn Cappelli was among those who had gathered to pay their respects and said Ford was “a man for the people.”
“He told the truth, a lot of people do not like to hear the truth but he was just a great guy,” she said. “Unfortunately the press sort of did him in by all that adverse publicity but on the other hand the press did him a favour, he got all that free publicity.”
Heather Hogben-Bruce, who had also lined up outside the cathedral, said Ford was a “very loved” man.
“He has done a lot for the people of Toronto, especially the little people. He was the people’s mayor,” she said. “Nobody’s perfect and I think he’s an incredible man.”
The politician, who was loved by some and loathed by others, served as mayor from 2010 to 2014.
He dropped his re-election bid after his cancer diagnosis, choosing to run instead as a city councillor — a seat he won with ease.
Among those scheduled to attend Ford’s funeral are Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne and current Toronto Mayor John Tory.
The family is planning a celebration in the evening at a west-end hall that has been the site of huge Ford rallies in the past.