Former Estevan mayor John Len died on Friday at the age of 74.
Len was elected as mayor for the first time in 1994, when he defeated incumbent John Empey. Len was then re-elected via acclamation three years later.
During his time as mayor, the city completed a number of important projects, including the Shirley Creek drainage project in northeast Estevan.
Len’s time on council came to an end when he finished fourth in the 2000 mayoral election.
He also had two three-year terms as a city councillor, getting elected for the first time in 1988, and re-elected three years later. In both elections, he finished first in the councillor race.
Council was also busy during his six years as a councillor. The Souris Valley Aquatic and Leisure Centre was among the projects finished during that time.
His final bid for council came in 2003, when he ran for a councillor’s post, but he was defeated.
A former police officer, Len was presented with a Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 for his service, first in law enforcement and then as an elected official.
Len is survived by his wife, Linda, his daughter Jamie (Clark) McLelland, grandsons Landon and Logan, sisters-in-law Elsie Len and Carol Kunysh, brother-in-law Nelson Fader, and numerous nieces and nephews.
A private family graveside service for Len was held Nov. 2.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Hall Funeral Services in Estevan.
