Canadian country-folk legend Stompin' Tom Connors, whose toe-tapping musical spirit and fierce patriotism established him as one of Canada's strongest cultural icons, has died. He was 77. Connors passed away Wednesday from what a spokesman described as ``natural causes.'' He is survived by his wife Lena, two sons, two daughters and several grandchildren. Many Canadians took to Twitter after hearing of Stompin' Tom's passing. Prime Minister Harper said the country "lost a true Canadian original" who "played the best game that could be played.'' Green Party leader Elizabeth May says Connors ``sang Canada's songs, our places, our lives.'' Fans at last night's NHL game in Toronto between the Maple Leafs and the Ottawa Senators learned of Connors' death from the scoreboard. They stood, sang and clapped as ``The Hockey Song'' blasted through the Air Canada Centre in tribute to the singer who championed all things Canadian. Just days prior to his passing, Connors penned a letter to his friends that he requested be published after his death. Here is a copy of his final words to his fans and a nation. Hello friends, I want all my fans, past, present, or future, to know that without you, there would have not been any Stompin' Tom. It was a long hard bumpy road, but this great country kept me inspired with its beauty, character, and spirit, driving me to keep marching on and devoted to sing about its people and places that make Canada the greatest country in the world. I must now pass the torch, to all of you, to help keep the Maple Leaf flying high, and be the Patriot Canada needs now and in the future. I humbly thank you all, one last time, for allowing me in your homes, I hope I continue to bring a little bit of cheer into your lives from the work I have done. Sincerely, Your Friend always, Stompin' Tom Connors
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