Irene Mathyssen, the former New Democratic MP for London-Fanshawe, has died at the age of 75.
Mathyssen died Monday, October 12, 2026, at her home after a battle with cancer, surrounded by family, including her husband, Keith, and daughter Lindsay, according to a statement from the family.
Her death marks the end of a political career that stretched from her election as an Ontario MPP in 1990 to her retirement from the House of Commons in 2019.
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Irene Mathyssen’s political career
Irene Mathyssen entered provincial politics after winning the former Middlesex riding for the Ontario New Democratic Party in 1990.
She served at Queen’s Park until 1995.
She later moved to federal politics and won London-Fanshawe in the January 23, 2006, federal election.
She was re-elected in 2008, 2011 and 2015 before deciding not to seek another term.
Mathyssen served in Parliament during a period when she became closely associated with issues involving women’s rights, seniors, veterans and human rights.
She chaired the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women and held several opposition critic and caucus roles, including deputy whip of the NDP and caucus chair.
A voice for London and vulnerable Canadians
Mathyssen was known in London for community-focused politics and for advocating on behalf of people she believed were being overlooked by governments and institutions.
Her parliamentary work included advocacy on violence against Indigenous women and girls, support for seniors, veterans’ issues, public health and access to social programs.
She also supported campaigns involving childhood cancer awareness and environmental health, reflecting the local and national causes that shaped her public life.
“Irene had a lot of courage, she spoke out,” community advocate Abi Raad said in a statement reported after Mathyssen’s death.
“She was a voice for those who didn’t have a voice.”
A political legacy carried on by her daughter
Mathyssen’s daughter, Lindsay Mathyssen, succeeded her as the federal NDP candidate in London-Fanshawe and won the seat in 2019.
The transition created one of the most prominent political successions in the riding’s recent history.
Lindsay Mathyssen represented London-Fanshawe in Parliament from 2019 until 2025.
In a statement following her mother’s death, Lindsay described Irene as an inspiration and reflected the close personal and political bond between them.
Irene Mathyssen’s federal service ended on October 20, 2019, after almost 14 years as the riding’s MP.
The House of Commons lists her as no longer a member and records her four election victories in London-Fanshawe.
Celebration of life details expected
Details about a celebration of life are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
Mathyssen leaves behind a record of nearly three decades in elected office and a long association with London’s labour, community and social-justice movements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Irene Mathyssen?
Irene Mathyssen was a New Democratic politician from London, Ontario, who served as an Ontario MPP from 1990 to 1995 and as the federal MP for London-Fanshawe from 2006 to 2019.
How old was Irene Mathyssen when she died?
Irene Mathyssen was 75 years old.
When did Irene Mathyssen die?
She died on Monday, October 12, 2026, at her home after a battle with cancer, according to her family.
Who succeeded Irene Mathyssen as MP for London-Fanshawe?
Her daughter, Lindsay Mathyssen, won the London-Fanshawe seat in the 2019 federal election.
What happens next for Irene Mathyssen’s family and supporters?
The family is expected to announce details of a celebration of life in the coming days.
Fact-Checked: Key biographical and parliamentary facts were checked against House of Commons records and official New Democratic Party information, while the death announcement was corroborated by current reporting and family statements. ([ourcommons.ca](https://www.ourcommons.ca/Members/en/irene-mathyssen%28764%29/roles?utm_source=openai))
Disclaimer: Details about funeral or celebration-of-life arrangements may change when the family releases further information.