MPs pay tribute to Eustace ‘Teco’ Lake, recalling a life of service and warmth

ST JOHN’S, Antigua — Parliament paused in a rare moment of unity to honour former MP Eustace “Teco” Lake, with tributes led by Prime Minister Gaston Browne and echoed across both sides of the aisle, as members reflected on his character, service and legacy.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne described Lake as more than a political colleague, recalling a long-standing personal connection and Lake’s contribution to national development. “We will all miss him, and we lost a brother, we lost a friend,” Browne said, noting that Lake had served both in the Upper and Lower Houses of Parliament and had played a role in nation building.

He also extended condolences to Lake’s family, acknowledging the difficulty of the loss. “It’s always difficult for a parent to have a child … and I know that he’s broken by the passing of his dear son,” Browne said, adding that the party and government would stand with the family during the mourning period.

Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle followed with his tribute, pointing to Lake’s ability to maintain respect across political divides. “It doesn’t matter how much we disagree, we were able to have discussions without any form of disrespect,” Pringle said, as he offered condolences to those left to mourn.

Other members of Parliament reinforced that image of a man widely respected for his temperament and approach to public life.

One MP described Lake as someone whose presence uplifted those around him. “He is one of those persons … that warms the room when he steps inside. He always has a smile,” the member said, noting that even during personal challenges Lake maintained a “positive disposition right down to the very end.”

Reflecting on his years of service, the same speaker added, “Tico Lake gave approximately 14 years of his life to nation building,” highlighting the demands of parliamentary work and the importance of recognising those contributions.

Another MP pointed to Lake’s consistency and willingness to serve, describing him as “the warmest person I know in politics,” who was “always at the ready” and never refused an assignment.

Members also reflected on his personality beyond politics, recalling his approachable nature and ability to connect with people. “A wonderful smile, approachable man, never resentful,” one tribute noted, adding that Lake had a natural ability to draw people to him.

Across the chamber, there was a shared recognition that Lake’s legacy extended beyond his formal roles, shaped instead by his character and the relationships he built.

As tributes concluded, MPs collectively expressed gratitude to his family for sharing him with the nation, with one member stating that his service “is etched for all time.”

The sitting was briefly suspended to allow members to reflect and honour his memory, underscoring the significance of the moment as Parliament remembered a former colleague described as both a committed public servant and a unifying presence.