Town grieves loss of long-time mayor
“What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived. It is what difference we have made to the lives of others that will determine the significance of the life we lead.” -Nelson Mandela
It is with great sadness that the Town of Okotoks mourns the passing of Mayor Bill Robertson on July 7 after a brave battle with cancer.
“On behalf of Town Council we extend our deepest condolences to his wife Elaine, their children Michael, Jeffery and Bradley and all members of his family,” said Deputy Mayor Florence Christophers. “Bill will be profoundly missed, both as a great leader in our community and as a mentor and a friend.”
Flags have been lowered to half-mast in honour of the mayor, and a memorial has been created at the Municipal Centre with a book of condolences that residents are invited to sign. The book will be open to the public during regular office hours Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. or residents can go online to sign it virtually.
Funeral service details
The mayor's funeral will be held Saturday, July 17 at the Foothills Centennial Centre, 204 Community Way. The service will begin at 1 p.m., with doors open at 12:15 p.m. Please note seating will be limited as there will be reserved seating. Physical distancing will be in effect.
The funeral service will be live-streamed into overflow seating at the Pason Centennial Arenas (Gold Arena) and online. Refreshments will be served afterward at the arena from 2 - 4 p.m.
Following the service, the mayor will be transported in the antique fire engine from the Foothills Centennial Centre to the cemetery for a private family service. The public are invited to safely line the sidewalk along the route to bid farewell and pay respects to the mayor (route to be announced). Please visit the mayor's webpage for more details as they become available.
