Canadian War Museum Statement on the passing of Raymond Moriyama

STATEMENT

Gatineau, Quebec, September 5, 2023 — The Canadian War Museum and its staff are deeply saddened by the passing of Raymond Moriyama, the renowned architect behind the Canadian War Museum. His exceptional vision and commitment to preserving our history, borne of his experiences as a young Japanese-Canadian, have left an enduring legacy for all Canadians.

“I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Raymond Moriyama, a visionary architect whose legacy will forever shape our cultural landscape,” said Caroline Dromaguet, President and CEO, Canadian War Museum and Canadian Museum of History. “His iconic designs, in Canada and internationally, stand as testaments to his passion for storytelling through architecture and will inspire generations to come. We are honoured to preserve Raymond’s legacy within the walls of our Museum. Our heartfelt condolences to his family”.

As we remember his contributions, we echo Frank Gehry’s sentiment: “Architecture should speak of its time and place and yearn for timelessness”. The Canadian War Museum stands as a testament to that timeless spirit. Raymond Moriyama will be dearly missed, but his life and work will continue to resonate for many generations.

The Canadian Museum of History operates the Canadian Museum of History, the Canadian War Museum and the Virtual Museum of New France. Together, these Museums function as centres for research and public information on the history of Canada. Their principal role is to enhance Canadians’ knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the events, experiences, people and objects that have shaped Canada’s history and identity. Work of the Canadian Museum of History is made possible in part through financial support of the Government of Canada.

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Media contacts
Avra Gibbs Lamey
Senior Communications and Media Relations Officer
Canadian War Museum
Telephone: 613-791-0910
avra.gibbs-lamey@warmuseum.ca

Stéphanie Verner
Senior Media Relations and Communications Officer
Canadian Museum of History
Telephone: 819-776-7169
stephanie.verner@historymuseum.ca