Tributes keep pouring in for deceased BC Minister
| The news of the sudden death of the popular politician and Minister responsible for Agriculture and Lands (including aquaculture) has brought a deluge of tributes from all corners of political life in British Columbia and the rest of Canada. "Torrents of tributes for 'very decent guy'" wrote The Province newspaper. "Stan Hagen, 1940-2009: Remembered for his many kindnesses" was the headline in the Times Colonist". Every major newspaper and TV station in BC wrote about a man that had touched many with his kindness and genuine care for his fellow citizens from all walks of life, and a man that at the same time was both respected and admired by politicians from all political parties. A memorial held in Courtenay on Saturday drew hundreds of supporters, friends and family members from far and near. A typical newspaper article was penned by Dan MacLennan of the Campbell River-based Courier-Islander last Friday; | |
| Campbell River took time this week to pay tribute to Comox Valley MLA Stan Hagen following his death in Victoria Tuesday. Flags were lowered to half staff at city facilities in Hagen's honor. "Stan provided exceptional service to the Comox Valley and the people of the North Island, and he will be sadly missed by our city," said Mayor Charlie Cornfield. "His dedication to his role as cabinet minister was a benefit to everyone in the province, and we appreciate the generosity of his family that gave us the energy and commitment of this well-intentioned, warm and friendly man, who worked so hard for us, for so long. Stan always made himself available any time we needed his ear, and I can't put into words how much we will miss him." "I was shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Stan Hagen," Vancouver Island North MP John Duncan said Wednesday. "We worked together often in the past and I saw firsthand how much he cared for and understood the Comox Valley. "Stan was a Comox Valley institution. He was tireless in his efforts to assist local fundraising and he was a strong advocate for the communities that he served. "My thoughts go out to his wife Judy and their children at this difficult time." After working a full day in Victoria, Hagen suffered a massive heart attack late Tuesday afternoon. He was 68. "It's a shock for all of us," Premier Gordon Campbell said in an interview Tuesday night. "I had a meeting with Stan this afternoon and he looked fine to me and this evening I find he passed away. "I don't think there is anyone in Canada who served as many [times as a] minister as Stan Hagen did," said Campbell. "The thing about Stan that was great was he really loved working with people and I think that really drove him. He really believed in public life and he was very committed to it." "Over decades of service, Stan made an enormous contribution to public life and to the well being of his community," said NDP Leader Carole James. "He will be greatly missed by all legislators and those he served in the Comox Valley. His accomplishments leave a lasting legacy for all British Columbians." Hagen settled in the Comox Valley in 1968, became a school trustee from 1972 to 1978 and was elected to the legislature as a member of the Social Credit party in 1986. He lost his seat in 1991, became general manager of a paving company, and was re-elected to the legislature in the 2001 Liberal landslide. A book of condolences has been placed in the Members Lobby just outside the gates to the legislative chamber. Premier Gordon Campbell was the first to sign the book Wednesday before entering the chamber and placing a rose on Hagen's desk, which was draped with the B.C. flag. |
