One year ago Red Deerians were shocked and saddened by the death of Dr. Walter Reynolds who was killed at Village Mall Clinic.
The loss and disbelief is still felt today.
Dr. Morne Odendaal, chair of Red Deer Primary Care Network, paid tribute to his colleague in a memorial on the network’s website that paid tribute to Reynolds’ skills as a doctor and dedication to his family.
On Aug. 10 of 2020, at around 11:10 a.m., Red Deer RCMP responded to an assault in progress at the Village Mall Walk-in Clinic in Red Deer. With life-threatening injuries Reynolds was taken to hospital, where he died.
Odendaal said since then he has learned a lot about the highly regarded family doctor from his patients.
“What I learned was that Walter Reynolds was a truly special person. He was a gifted healer. His skills were obvious. His knowledge excellent. But his insight, dedication and compassion to his patients was inspiring,” Odendaal said.
“I never had the privilege of working with Walter, but those that did are richer for that opportunity.”
However, it was Reynolds’ family who Odendaal was thinking about the most.
“His commitment to his family is the truest reflection of Walters Reynolds contribution to the life that he led.”
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Reynolds came to Canada from South Africa in 2003. Reynolds and his wife, Anelia, first lived in Manitoba then moved to Red Deer in 2006.
A statement from Village Mall Clinic shortly after Reynolds’ death said he was a person who lived life to the fullest, which included running.
“If there was a race to run, then he was there. He ran from marathons to mud races, from Sinister Seven to Spartan challenges. He would be frequently seen jogging with his wife around the neighbourhood, or sweating it out at the gym. If there was a campsite to explore, then they were there. Always exploring. Always on an adventure. Always on the move… so full of life,” the clinic said.
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Trial of man accused of killing Red Deer doctor going ahead
Reynolds was attacked with a weapon while working at the clinic.
RCMP have said the crime was not random and that Reynolds, and the man accused of killing him, knew each other through the clinic.
Deng Mabiour, who was 54 at the time, is charged with first-degree murder. He has pleaded not guilty and his trial is set for Nov. 22 to Dec. 17.