NEWS FILE PHOTO
Garth Vallely, who served as mayor of Medicine Hat from 2001-2007, is seen in this 2006 file photo. Vallely passed away over the weekend after a length period of ill health.
One of Medicine Hat’s former mayor’s is being lovingly remembered as a visionary, mediator and someone who also had a sense of fun.
Garth Vallely, who was mayor from 2001-2007, passed away Saturday, April 7, following a lengthy period of ill health.
“He was very friendly, the type of person to take hinges off doors,” said Larry Godin, retired city clerk, who visited with Vallely in the last couple months.
Vallely is remembered as having the vision for what we today call the Canalta Centre.
It was at a curling event that he said it was time to build a new arena, said Cathy Smith who served on council during Vallely’s time as mayor. In spite of opposition to the idea he pointed out that a vision was the first part of achievements.
“He wanted it (the arena) to happen,” said Godin.
As mayor Vallely brought the city into a new era of business, said Smith.
According to the City of Medicine Hat flags at all city facilities will be lowered from sunrise to sunset until the funeral service on April 14.
