When I heard the news on Friday morning that Jim Prentice had passed away, I broke down in tears and I realized he had more impact on me than I had ever known. I hoped, prayed and begged that it was not true.
I thought of Karen and how much they loved each other. I thought of his three daughters and how proud he was of them. I thought of his much more fun and important role of being a grandfather. I thought of how selfish I was, because I just wanted one more conversation, one more visit, one more piece of advice and one more text. I couldn't imagine that the person that I had come to admire, respect and learn from had been taken so suddenly.
Jim was the kind of person who wanted to do better. Jim saw Alberta for what it was: a thriving province that remains the best place to live in Canada. He believed in people, he believed in the province of Alberta, but mostly he believed that we needed governance, guidance and opportunity.
Jim was the kind of person who understood those who were vulnerable. As premier, he reversed the decision to close Red Deer's Michener Centre, saying it was the right thing to do. With that, he moved hearts and minds in a way that no one could have imagined that day.
Jim was the type of person that showed kindness during difficult times. When I joined the PCs in 2014, Jim would invite me to the Premier's Office each day at 5 p.m. He told me he was humbled to have me on his team and asked if there was anything he could help me with. He never asked anything of me in return, only offered support and encouragement.
Jim was the type of person who never uttered a word of anger or hate, or spoke badly of anyone. I saw this first hand after the devastating defeat in the 2015 provincial election. I sat with him and he said he was thankful for the opportunity, disappointed that he couldn't make Alberta better and that he trusted and respected the voters.
For those who didn't know Jim personally, I can tell you that I experienced incredible kindness, appreciation and true dedication to Alberta. I heard his anguish on the phone as we talked through the loss of PC MLA Manmeet Bhullar and we all watched his pain as he said goodbye to Manmeet not even a year ago.
Over the last 18 months, Jim and I stayed in touch. We talked about Alberta, grandkids, future, his book and my new job. He was always available for a quick text to offer guidance, positive thoughts or arrange some dates to meet. I truly felt he wanted me to be OK.
Alberta has lost a truly good man. Jim had the best interests of Albertans, Canadians and family always on his mind. I know that he entered with goodness on his side, belief in Alberta in his mind and the love of his wife in his heart.
I will miss him dearly.
Kerry Towle is the former MLA of the Innisfail-Sylvan Lake riding, serving first with the Wildrose Party and then with the Progressive Conservative Party.
