Former mayor passes away

DIDSBURY - Didsbury lost one of its finest citizens on Sept. 26 with the passing of former mayor Rick Mousseau. Mousseau served as mayor of Didsbury from 2013-2017 and as town councillor for two terms prior to that. He was well known for being a family man, a caring member of the community and a good friend to all.

Mousseau was very active in the community and very popular. He served on the Didsbury Fire Department for 30 years including 18 as fire chief. He was also a Didsbury Elks Club member for 38 years and served as the exalted ruler for one year.

Current mayor Rhonda Hunter told the Gazette that Mousseau will be remembered for his friendly, caring demeanour.

"September 26 was indeed a sad day and this is a sad time for Didsbury; we have lost a friend and community leader who put endless hours and a lot of heart into serving his community," said Hunter. "Through Rick's service as a Didsbury firefighter and fire chief for many years and as a councillor and mayor, he helped make Didsbury a better community."

Hunter said Mousseau served the community with selflessness and genuine dedication and commitment.

"It was obvious that he truly cared for those he served as well as led, and his quiet, unassuming nature garnered the respect of those he volunteered with and worked with. He will be missed."

Joyce McCoy, who served as councillor when Mousseau was mayor, said he was great to work with and a true leader.

"Rick had a unique, collaborative leadership style," said McCoy. "It was how he lived his life. He preferred group decisions and encouraged council to come to consensus. Sharing power was one of his best attributes. He was quick to acknowledge leadership skills in others and empower them."

McCoy said Mousseau always put others first.

"He would never ask anyone to do something he wasn't willing to do himself," she said. "Because of this, he would never do anything that wasn't in the best interests of Didsbury. He dealt with problems in a calm, pragmatic way. He actively listened to everyone. He was very compassionate to others and innately knew when someone needed help or encouragement."

McCoy said one of the major highlights of Mousseau's council career was the building of the new fire hall in Didsbury.

"Ultimately, he was a visionary," she said. "From his years on the fire department, he knew they needed a new fire hall. In his last term on council his vision came to life with the completion of our new fire hall."

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