FOG BLOG CANADA SPORTS LOG: NATIONAL FUNERAL HELD FOR MONTREAL CANADIENS HOCKEY LEGEND GUY LAFLEUR!

National funeral in Montreal for Canadiens legend Guy Lafleur Former hockey stars, politicians, and hundreds of fans gathered in Montreal Tuesday for the national funeral for Montreal Canadiens legend Guy Lafleur.

The hockey great died April 22 of lung cancer and was laid to rest at the Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral in downtown Montreal.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, former Quebec Premier Jean Charest, Bloc Quebecois leader Yves-François Blanchet and former Habs players like Serge Savard and Larry Robinson are among the special guests who are paying their respects.

"Today's a day to say thank you to Guy Lafleur for everything he gave us over so many years, all the wins, all the inspiration, the incredible games he played, but also his deep humanity. His contributions to the world around him were legendary and an inspiration to us all," the prime minister said before entering the church.

As the casket was carried into the church, fans lining the street chanted "Guy, Guy Guy" and applauded the hockey hero.

At the ceremony's opening, Montreal Canadiens CEO Geoff Molson shared a tribute to the hockey star in the packed cathedral.

"When he walked into a room, jaws dropped. Cameras came out for selfies. And people immediately started searching for Sharpies, and a piece of paper for his autograph. And there was never a time when anyone in that room didn't get that selfie or that signature," Molson said.

"People realized that he was not only a superstar, Hall of Fame hockey player, but also a warm, humble and normal human being with an outstanding sense of humour."