Longtime city councillor and entrepreneur Joe Vanderwees has died at 84.
Vanderwees first joined council in June 1978, replacing Taras Kozyra, who had resigned the Dawson Ward seat.
Born in the Netherlands, Vander Wees emigrated to Canada and set up a successful greenhouse in Thunder Bay.
He remained on council intermittently until 2006.
"Joe was a kind and gentle man. Whether on council or at his garden centre, he was quick to help one out. Joe will also be remembered as a strong supporter of the arts. He will be missed," said Coun. Iain Angus, who served alongside Vanderwees from 2003 to 2006.
Longtime councillor Rebecca Johnson said she considered Vanderwees a friend, dating back to their days as trustees on the public school board.
He was a champion of the education of youth in our community which then continued into his role as a municipal councillor. Joe was a dear friend. We shared many moments together," Johnson said.
"I remember fondly being a guest at his 80th birthday party and his sharing of times together. He was a true gentleman and cared about his community. His singing of the National Anthem at many public occasions showed his love of his new adopted country.
Johnson said aside from his family, his love of Thunder Bay was equalled only by his love of his family business.
"The time and commitment he gave to his business knows no bounds as Vanderwees Greenhouses is one of the outstanding local businesses who looks at innovation and creativity. We were fortunate to have a man of his calibre in our community, committed to its future and its people. I was proud to call him a friend," she said.
Neebing Coun. Linda Rydholm said Vanderwees always put others first.
"Joe Vanderwees was a sincere, caring individual -- always trying to do what was best for the people of Thunder Bay."
A public celebration of life will be held on Friday, starting at 4 p.m. at the Da Vinci Centre.
