Leduc says farewell to former alderman, Terry Atkinson
It is with great sadness the City of Leduc shares the passing of former alderman Terry Atkinson on Feb. 25, 2023, in Leduc.
During his time from 1995 to 2007 on Leduc City Council, he served on Leduc Foundation, Leduc Parks, Recreation and Culture Board, Capital City Sewage Commission, Leduc and Area Ambulance Board, Wm. F. Lede Facility Committee and the Citizen Recognition Committee. He enjoyed his role on council and sharing that with school groups through the Mock Council program. He had mutual respect for his council colleagues and appreciated the diverse opinions shared while collaborating to implement plans for Leduc’s future. His honours include:
- Park naming in 2018 in the Suntree neighbourhood <https://www.leducrep.com/news/local-news/leduc-resident-recognized-with-...
- 2009 Citizens of Distinction for Arts, Culture and Heritage
- 2002 Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee Medal from the Governor General of Canada
He was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland in 1931. He excelled in music, enjoyed sports and sailed miniature yachts. He immigrated to Guelph, Ont., in 1954 and work brought him to Nisku, Alta. in 1980. Terry served in various community roles, including 11 years as president of the Leduc Music Festival and eight years as president of Just for Fun Theatre. He also performed as a vocal soloist in local events and contributed to St. David’s Church choir, Meals on Wheels and Leduc Drama Society. He founded the Leduc Composite High School Badminton Club and coached at other schools.
Some may remember Terry’s devotion to arts and culture in our community and how much he loved music, a good limerick and a joke or two. During council meetings, it was a right-of-passage for Terry to conclude the night with a tune, sharing a few lines at a time featuring some of his favourite Irish and Scottish folk songs.
Terry’s passing is the result of complications due to Alzheimer’s. At his request, a funeral will not be held. Instead, his family will host a ceilidh this spring when interring his ashes in the Memorial Garden at St. David’s United Church.
His wife Helen, daughter Kerry, sons John and Lindsay, appreciate the overwhelming love and support they’ve received from the community.
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