Guy Boutilier Obituary: Stewart Guy Boutilier, aged 54, passed away peacefully at Welland County General Hospital on July 12th, 2010. Survived by wife Betty, sons Ayden and Chance, and siblings Dollie, Richard, Charlotte, Deanna, Edward, Karen, Pat, Russell, Deborah, and Cindy. Preceded in death by parents Russell and Olga, and brothers Kenny and Ronnie. A service in his honor will be held at the Rex Hotel in Welland on July 15th at 6:00 PM, followed by a reception until 8:00 PM. Donations to Brain Injury Community Re-entry (BICR) of Niagara appreciated.
A Life of Public Service
Guy Boutilier, a prominent figure in Alberta’s political landscape, passed away Friday morning, leaving behind a legacy of decades of dedicated service to both municipal and provincial politics. Born in Glace Bay, N.S., Boutilier ventured to Alberta after completing his university education, where he embarked on a remarkable political career.
Pioneering Leadership
Boutilier’s political journey began in 1986 when he was elected to Fort McMurray city council at the young age of 27. His leadership skills quickly garnered attention, leading to his historic election as the youngest mayor in the city’s history in 1992. His tenure as mayor marked a period of significant growth and development for the region.
First Mayor of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo
In 1995, Boutilier made history once again by becoming the inaugural mayor of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, following the amalgamation of Fort McMurray and Improvement District No. 143. His visionary leadership and dedication to public service earned him widespread respect and admiration.
Also Read: Jason Betts Obituary, Moncton New Brunswick Resident Has Passed Away
Political Career in the Legislative Assembly
Boutilier’s commitment to public service extended to provincial politics when he was elected as a Progressive Conservative MLA in 1997. He served as a cabinet minister under the Ralph Klein and Ed Stelmach governments, contributing to important policy decisions and initiatives for the province.
Challenges and Resilience
Despite facing challenges, including expulsion from the PC caucus in 2009, Boutilier remained steadfast in advocating for his constituents’ interests. His principled stance on issues such as healthcare infrastructure demonstrated his unwavering commitment to serving the people of Alberta.
Legacy and Tributes
Guy Boutilier’s contributions to Alberta’s political landscape are deeply appreciated and remembered by colleagues, constituents, and political leaders alike. Former Premier Danielle Smith described him as “a great Albertan” and a friend, highlighting his significant impact on the province.
Also Read: Mark Rubel Obituary, a C-U Music Pioneer Passes Away
Final Honors
In recognition of his lifetime of service, Boutilier was awarded the Key to the Region by former mayor Don Scott in 2021, symbolizing his enduring legacy and contributions to the community he served with dedication and passion.
FAQs
1. Who was Guy Boutilier?
Guy Boutilier was a prominent figure in Alberta’s political landscape, known for his decades of dedicated service to both municipal and provincial politics.
2. What were some highlights of Guy Boutilier’s political career?
Boutilier was elected as the youngest mayor in Fort McMurray’s history in 1992 and later became the first mayor of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo in 1995. He also served as a Progressive Conservative MLA and cabinet minister in the Alberta legislative assembly.
3. What challenges did Guy Boutilier face during his political career?
Boutilier faced challenges, including expulsion from the PC caucus in 2009 for criticizing delays in healthcare infrastructure projects. However, he remained committed to advocating for his constituents’ interests.