Saint John's MP Rodney Weston tells CHSJ News it was a complete shock to learn about it in the House of Commons.
Weston says he was a tremendous individual who carried this country during a difficult period when it needed a steady hand at the wheel.
Premier David Alward says Flaherty was a nation-builder who took great pride in serving Canadians.
Many tweeting out their condolences including Liberal Leader Brian Gallant.
Gallant calls him a man who was working to improve our circumstances and a patriot.
Fredericton Mayor Brad Woodside described him as tough and focused on debt reduction.
