The upper hall at the T.M. Davies Community Centre and Arena in Walden has been renamed in honour of the late Sudbury city councillor Michael Vagnini.
The ceremonial event to name the hall the Michael Vagnini Community Hall was held at the arena Thursday afternoon. It is the same hall where a celebration of Vagnini's life was held last March for family members, close friends and political supporters, following his unexpected death early last year.
Vagnini, 62, was first reported missing on Jan. 27, 2024. Despite an intense search by police and members of the public, his body wasn't discovered until more than two weeks later.
Vagnini was found in a rural cottage area near Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nation, more than two weeks later on Feb. 13, 2024. A coroner's report said Vagnini died of “medical causes”.
Vagnini's legacy was honoured in the ceremony by several speakers including Greater Sudbury Mayor Paul Lefebvre who said that although the decision was made nearly a year ago to name the hall in Vagnini's honour, it was fitting to make the announcement at the kickoff to the Walden Winter Carnival.
Lefebvre said Vagnini was fond of telling people he remembered the early days of the Walden carnival and how much he enjoyed taking part over the years.
"So we all know that Michael was more than a city councilor. He was a strong voice for the people, a tireless volunteer, and someone who truly believed in the power of community," said the mayor.
The importance of community was mentioned by Vagnini's daughter, Erin, who spoke at the ceremony. She said there were numerous examples of how the people of Ward 2 have demonstrated community spirit over the years and said it was something her father was keen to take part in.
"My father cared so much about making sure people in his ward were recognized when recognition was due. I remember when Andrew Desjardins (NHL forward, Chicago Blackhawks) brought home the Stanley Cup. My father said to me, I want to make a parade for Andrew and his wife to showcase the cup and bring everyone together. Ward 2 made that happen. That is community," Erin said.
“My father lived his life in service of others. His unwavering commitment to the Greater Sudbury community was not just part of who he was — it was who he was. It is fitting that this hall now bears his name, as it symbolizes the heart and spirit with which he served. On behalf of my sister and the entire Vagnini Family, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to the City of Greater Sudbury for honouring my father’s dedication and passion for the people around him.”.
Following the comments, family and friends moved over to the doors near the hall entrance where a plaque was unveiled in honour of the late city councillor.
The plaque says in part: "This hall is dedicated to the memory of Michael Vagnini, a strong voice for the people and a compassionate volunteer for those in need".
Len Gillis is a reporter at Sudbury.com.