Statement of US Ambassador Gillian Milovanovic on the death of Tose Proeski

Tose Proeski with the kids, his most faithful audience

October 16, 2007

It is with immense shock and sadness that I learned today of the death of Tose Proeski. My family and I, and the entire US Embassy extend our deepest condolences to Tose’s friends, family and the Macedonian people. You are all in our thoughts and our prayers.

Tose touched countless lives in his time with us and provided an excellent example of how much good one person can accomplish. His music and the joy it gave to millions, and the broader inspiration he provided, particularly to young people, live on as a lasting legacy. We were honored to work with him on several projects and marveled at the energy he brought to everything he did. Tose Proeski packed a lifetime of music and joy and caring for others into his far too short life. We mourn his passing but are thankful for all he accomplished and for all that he gave to anyone who encountered him.

The loving response that always greeted Tose, whether from a stadium filled with thousands or a small child giving him a stuffed animal gift, was a reflection of Tose’s own love – of life, of music, of his public and of his country.

His family, but also Macedonia, has lost an exceptional son.