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Community mourns: Millet mayor dies

Town is reflecting on his dedication to the community
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(Photo millet.ca)

By Madison Fleck

BLACK PRESS NEWS MEDIA

Following the passing of Millet Mayor Tony Wadsworth, town members are reflecting on his dedication to the community.

Mayor Tony Wadsworth died suddenly on July 23, according to a post on the town’s website dated July 26.

The town says Wadsworth was a “tireless advocate for our community and contributed greatly to the success of the Town of Millet. His leadership and compassion were felt by all who had the opportunity to interact with him.”

Since emigrating to Alberta from Liverpool, England about 40 years ago, Wadsworth had been a pivotal member of Millet society. He dedicated nine years of service to the Millet town council, serving the last two as mayor.

His support of Millet in Bloom – an organization that aims to beautify the Town of Millet – aided Millet in securing the title of the ‘Prettiest Little Town in Alberta.’

“He understood the importance of the program,” said Carol Sadoroszney, former chair of Millet in Bloom and town councillor.

“He was always happy to recognize the volunteers.”

Community members will also remember him from his avid support of the Millet Soccer Association, which he was involved with since its beginning in 1990. He was widely known for organizing the Millet Classic Soccer Tournament held annually in June.

“When I first met him, he was the ref for my kids soccer team,” said town Coun. Doug Peel.

“He would actually explain to the kids why he made the calls.”

Wadsworth spent his business career managing the insurance and risk management programs of municipalities across Alberta, a position that ensures the preparedness and safety of communities so that the quality of life for residents is not jeopardized.

His time as mayor saw him use those principles to analyze issues such as franchise fees and laws regarding the regaining of recycling expenses in small municipalities in Alberta.

“He was fantastic and genuinely cared about Millet,” said Marilyn Kroening, who worked alongside Wadsworth through Millet in Bloom.

In addition to his role as mayor, Wadsworth was also husband to Marlene Alberts, and father to son, TJ. Community members will remember his professionalism and patience.

“He was a man that was very honest and upright, [always] keeping the citizens in mind,” said Sadoroszney. “He’s really going to be missed in the community.”

Flags in Millet are lowered to half-mast, and a tentative funeral service is set for Aug. 5.