KELOWNA — Long-time Kelowna city councillor Ben Lee has passed away at the age of 86.
Flags were at half-mast at city hall on Monday to honour the former councillor who was a recipient of the Freedom of the City award in 2001.
“Ben and his wife Joyce represent the epitome of community service giving countless hours over decades as volunteers for a variety of causes. A teacher, a coach, a councillor and a committed family man, Ben was an exceptional person who has left an indelible mark on our city.”
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Lee served as a city councillor for 23 years up until 1996, promoting parks, recreation and health care, according to the city’s website.
The city says “he was instrumental in the assimilation of Rutland into the City of Kelowna when the city’s boundaries expanded in 1973 and he played a significant role in the development of the city’s Heritage Management Plan and Guisachan Heritage Park.”
Lee was a teacher by profession and the city says his actions always reflected his concern for youth including championing many innovative programs, facilities and services for children of all ages.
In recognition of Lee’s years of dedication and service, the city named a Rutland park after him in 1996. Ben Lee park officially opened on June 24, 2001.
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