CENTRE WELLINGTON – Township flags will be flying at half mast for a former Fergus mayor.
A press release from the Township of Centre Wellington announced the loss of Jim Gibbons, a former councillor, deputy reeve and mayor of Fergus.
"Jim's contributions to our community were immeasurable, with decades of municipal service and tireless volunteer work that have left an indelible mark on Fergus and the greater Centre Wellington area," the release said.
Gibbons was also a successful business owner, according to the release, operating the Fergus Canadian Tire on St. Andrew Street West for many years.
He was also known for his work in local fundraising and community building including being involved in the local Rotary Club.
The release said he played a pivotal role in initiatives like the construction of the Groves Community Hospital, the Grove Hub, the Cataract Trail, the Grand River Conservation Authority and the Fergus Business Park.
"His vision for a business park, which began in the 1970s, finally came to fruition thanks to his persistence," said mayor Shawn Watters, in the release. "His legacy will live on in the many projects he helped create and the lives he touched. Jim always led by example, empowering others to take on leadership roles, and his passion for this community was unmatched."