Thursday July 25, 2024 | LANGFORD, BC [Last update July 30, 2024]
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
Former City of Langford councillor Roger Wade has died. He had been the West Shore Rebels general manager in the active Langford team sports community. He was 61.
“Roger’s dedication and passion for both the team and the City of Langford were unparalleled, and he will be greatly missed by all,” it is stated on the Westshore Rebels website.
At a public engagement event at City of Langford city hall on July 24 Mayor Scott Goodmanson made the announcement, and the room was silent for some moments of remembrance.
While the cause of death has not been officially announced, Island Social Trends has been told it was a heart attack.
For over 37 years, Wade lived in Langford. He leaves behind his wife Gina, son Stephen and daughters Danica and Gianna.
Wade was always a friendly, jovial presence at City of Langford events and a steady contributor at council meetings during his years on council (2008 to 2022).
Under then-Mayor Stew Young, Wade chaired the Transportation and Public Works committee that oversaw many roadway and infrastructure changes in the fast-growing city during those robust years in the Langford landscape.
A July 24 news release from the City of Langford itemizes Roger Wade’s participation on these committees: Protective Services, Transportation and Public Works, Planning, Zoning and Affordable Housing, Parks, Recreation, Culture, and Beautification among others.
Goodmanson said yesterday evening: “Many of us woke up to some sad news today. Former Councillor Roger Wade passed away last night. On behalf of the city, staff and council give our heartfelt condolences out to his family and friends. He’s fondly remembered as a trusted and devoted community member, a lot of time volunteer, a very strong passionate supporter for sports in the city, and he played a pivotal role in the growth of Langford. Our thoughts are with the Wade family at this time. He was a gentleman who had a long history with the city.”
Flags will be lowered across the city in honour of Wade.
Updates July 29, 2024:
- In some public remarks on July 29, MLA Ravi Parmar called Roger Wade “a beloved member of this community” and “a visionary leader”.
- Wade was remembered at a football game at Starlight Stadium this past weekend. The Westshore Rebels team helmets will bear a W52 insignia for the full season (Wade’s jersey number was 52 when he played with the team).
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