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Céline Dion took center stage in Vegas for a final mournful goodbye to her late husband René Angélil — after the 73-year-old manager succumbed to cancer Jan. 16. Mourners gathered to salute René at the Caesar's Palace Colosseum in Las Vegas. That was where he put together his wife's hit residency that brought in millions for the city. And René's family was still able to hold his hand!
Photo credit: Splash News
Celine Dion honours late husband RenÈ AngÈlil at the Caesar’s Palace Colosseum in Las Vegas
The dying René had been too ill to attend the premiere of Céline's most recent residency. As a tribute, the staff had places a sculpture cast from René's hand, so that everyone could still shake the hand of her husband/manager in what had become a backstage ritual.
Photo credit: Splash News
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Music producer and reality-show star David Foster also made an appearance to support his friend Céline. René has also been celebrated for all that he did to revive the Las Vegas economy. Céline's success has since spawned residencies by stars like Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez and Elton John. As the final service came to a close, Céline said: "On behalf of my family, thank you again for being with us this evening for this beautiful tribute to mon amour. René, I love you so much — merci, good night."
Photo credit: Splash News