The death of former Sundre mayor and member of Parliament Myron Thompson on the weekend is sad news for all who knew and respected him as a colourful and dedicated public servant.
During a life filled with many adventures and challenges, Thompson served his local community, his native America, and his adoptive home Canada with distinction and honour.
I first met Thompson in 1993 when I started work as the reporter-editor at the Sundre Round Up newspaper. Thompson had just been elected for his first term as member of Parliament and his enthusiasm for the job ahead was clear for all to see.
Over more than a dozen years in the House, Thompson proved himself not only an accomplished parliamentarian but also a man who never lost touch with the concerns and issues facing rural Alberta.
I can say from first-hand experience of reporting on Thompson’s political activities over the years that while he had his views on controversial issues such as gun control, he was also open to hearing other views and opinions, including from this journalist.
It was perhaps a true indication of the man that he held his own positions while welcoming the views of others too.
“I think we will certainly miss Myron’s special way of expressing himself and making sure everyone knew exactly where he stood on an issue,” said Mountain View County reeve Bruce Beattie. “Whether it was a popular issue or not, he always took a stand and stood by it.”
Not surprisingly, the accolades for Thompson have been pouring in from ordinary citizens and provincial and national leaders alike. And that too is an indication of Thompson’s lasting impact and legacy.
The Town of Sundre recently honoured Thompson by erecting signs reading "Myron Thompson’s Way" on the road outside his Sundre home.
In the end, Myron Thompson’s Way was all about community service and dedication. And for that he will long be remembered and rightly honoured.
- Singleton is the Mountain View Gazette editor.
