We were shocked and saddened to learn about the death of Councillor Rick Butler on Boxing Day.
Butler served the public for decades, working as a senior manager for governments, municipalities, First Nations and the private sector across Alberta, B.C. and Canadaís north. Prior to his election onto Rocky View County council in the fall of 2010, Butler was the Calgary Regional Partnershipís founding executive, serving in that role for eight years.
As a County councillor and deputy reeve, Butler worked tirelessly for his community, taking on many projects, such as the hamlet-initiative and challenging the Countyís automatic first-reading policy. Butler was not afraid to make difficult decisions, such as approving the controversial Bragg Creek water treatment system, if he thought the outcome would better the community.
Butler was also transparent, sharing his knowledge with his residents and the press on a regular basis in the form of community meetings and e-mail updates. Productive, forthright communication was Butlerís fortÈ, as was his ability to listen and make decisions based on what he heard, rather than on his personal agenda.
Whatever the outcome of a public hearing, residents from across the county could be sure Butler would not only listen to their concerns but take them into consideration.
Butler was also gregarious.
The life of the party, he would regularly bust into laughter at council meetings and public events. That dash of humour often made a long day seem shorter and a difficult situation seem easier.
Most of all, Butler treated everyone equally, with kindness and empathy. He never seemed to hold a grudge and remained open and honest. Butler was always the first to return a phone call and more than eager to provide a helping hand or an encouraging word.
Farewell Rick, you will be sorely missed.
