a sad note from Beth Follett;

Obituary
James Reaney, 81

National literary icon had 50-year career as playwright, poet and professor

The Canadian Press
June 12, 2008 at 12:34 AM EDT

LONDON, ONT. — James Reaney, a national literary icon who stayed close to his southwestern Ontario roots during a celebrated 50-year career as a playwright, poet and professor, has died.

Reaney died Wednesday night in London following a long illness. He was 81.

“It was a peaceful end to a great life,” his son, journalist James Reaney of London, said. “We know that he will be remembered and his contributions to Canadian culture will be valued.”

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080612.wobitreaney0612/BNStory/Entertainment/home

http://www.gotpoetry.com/News/article/sid=10794.html