UPDATE: Nenshi “very sad” to hear of Sue Higgins’ passing

Former city council member Sue Higgins has died following a lengthy battle with cancer.

Higgins, who called herself the ‘alderbroad’, served as an alderman for 21 years.

She was known for her straightforward opinions and for her efforts to reign spending in at city hall.

Higgins lost a bid for mayor against Ralph Klein in 1983. She won re-election three years later and continued to serve as an alderman until 2001.

Higgins now has a dog park named after her in south Calgary.

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Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi released a statement Monday, saying he was saddened to hear of her passing.

“In an age of polished politics and spin, Sue was always straight-talking and blunt, using her own form of colourful language,” reads the statement. “But under that tough exterior, she had a deep love for this city and for everyone in it.  Her personal story is also deeply inspiring. At a time when the job of alderman was considered part-time–and paid a pittance–she took it on full-time, working crazy hours for nothing but a desire to make the community better. Having lost her husband, she did it as a single mother of three. Times were tough, and she could have done just about anything else, but she persevered.”

A statement from the family was released on behalf of daughters Suzy, Lyn and Maureen Higgins Monday afternoon.

In it, they say their mom “lived a very full life, and in her retirement years she remained active, spending time at home with her grandchildren, tending her garden, playing weekly bridge with friends, and continued to volunteer for the city on the Calgary Awards recognizing contributions by outstanding Calgarians. Sue was always willing to share her knowledge, experience and acumen to those who would ask. The family sincerely thanks all of the Calgarians who have offered their love and support for Sue during her illness.”