Innisfail Mayor Jean Barclay praised late town councillor Don Harrison as "simply the best" on Monday.
Harrison passed away last Friday.
"Don was a true champion for Innisfail, always putting the whole community first and foremost in his decision making and advocacy," said Barclay in a statement.
"Don brought a lifetime of experience to council. His career in forestry with the Government of Alberta culminating in an assistant deputy minister role, his service as a councillor in other communities including time as the mayor of Onoway, and his unbounding enthusiasm to serve on committees, boards, and volunteer organizations, all contributed to his legacy as a community builder."
Harrison was also past manager of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #104 in Innisfail.
"Most important to Don was his wife and best friend Colleen, his family and friends, nature and conservation, and serving his community. He loved Innisfail and always championed to make our community better."
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to Colleen and their family. Don will be truly missed by all of us, but he will not be forgotten. He faced these past few months with courage and grace.
"Thank you Don for your kindness, your professionalism, your mentorship, and your infectious positive attitude. Don was simply the best."
Harrison was first elected to council in a byelection in June 2020. His election win is believed to have made him at the time the first person elected at any level of government in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"We all made history," said Harrison of the four council candidates. "We've never been through anything like this before. Campaigning in the middle of a pandemic is something we will be able to tell our grandchildren,” Harrison told the Innisfail Province.
Harrison was re-elected during the October 2021 municipal elections.
