Friends and loved ones gathered at St. Bartholomew's Anglican Church in Ottawa Sunday afternoon for a memorial service for Hamilton Southam.

Southam died on July 1 at the age of 91. He was an influential philanthropist who founded the National Arts Centre in 1969.

Many gathered to share their memories and thoughts about the man at the small church in New Edinburgh.

"When the terrazzo and the last piece of equipment has been put away, and that particular stillness has settled ion the stage, we look forward to your hauntings," Ron Colpaart, stagehand at the NAC told the audience.

The NAC Orchestra also held a concert in Southam's honour as an opportunity to share in Southam's life-long passion for music and his eternal presence at the NAC.

Southam was a Second World War veteran and also helped found the Canadian War Museum.

From a along line of newspaper magnates, he served as an editor of the Ottawa Citizen. He also served as the ambassador to Poland and head of the information division for External Affairs.

Sunday was the last day for a public viewing of his tribute in the main foyer of the NAC.

With files from The Canadian Press