Watch above: Former long-serving mayor Cliff Wright passed away in a Saskatoon hospital Tuesday morning. Meaghan Craig takes a look back at his life and his legacy.
SASKATOON – A former long-time mayor of Saskatoon has passed away. Clifford (Cliff) Emerson Wright, 87, passed away early Tuesday morning at St. Paul’s Hospital.
Wright was mayor of Saskatoon from 1976 to 1988, the first mayor born in the city and one of the city’s longest serving mayors. Prior to his election as mayor, Wright was an alderman from 1967 until 1976.
During his time in office, Wright played a key role in the creation of Wanuskewin Heritage Park and the Meewasin Valley Authority. He was also instrumental on projects such as the Circle Drive north bridge, and sports facilities including the Field House, Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre and Saskatchewan Place (now SaskTel Centre).
“Mayor Wright was a visionary and he guided Saskatoon through periods of both significant growth and economic strain,” said City Manager Murray Totland. “Cliff Wright’s leadership was characterized not just by his keen business and political ability but his magnetic and down-to-earth personality.”
“He had a great understanding of people and could always speak to them with ease and empathy.”
Wright studied engineering at the University of Saskatchewan then joined Smith Brothers and Wilson Construction in 1947 as a carpenter’s apprentice. He eventually became president and owner of the company, now known as Wright Construction.
After leaving office, Wright served as a treaty commissioner for the federal government from 1989 to 1993. His recommendations formed the framework for the historic treaty land entitlement agreement signed between the government and 25 Saskatchewan First Nations to address outstanding land issues.
“A significant accomplishment that he was very proud of would be the treaty land entitlement commission that he was involved, that he was pleased to help settle some long overdue grievances with First Nations people,” said Lorne Wright, his son and president of Wright Construction.
“I think his legacy is a great family man, a great friend and a great community builder.”
He also sat on both the City Hospital and Royal University Hospital boards and from 1992-95 was the first chair of the Saskatoon Health Board.
Among his many volunteer contributions to the community, Wright was involved in agencies that assisted children and seniors including the United Way, YMCA and YWCA, and Big Brothers and Big Sisters.
In 1988, Wright was given an honorary doctor of laws degree by the University of Saskatchewan for his contribution for public and community service. He also received the Canada 125 medal in 1992, was made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1998, awarded the Saskatchewan Order of Merit in 1999 and the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal in 2005.
Flags at all civic facilities will be flown at half-mast until the funeral for Cliff Wright has been held.
Comments