Former city councillor André Rivest has died.
Rivest represented the residents of Ward 6 for 18 years. He died May 10 at the age of 55.
Rivest told media in 2014 during his bid for re-election that he was first motivated to run for municipal office because he was tired of not seeing anything done about his ward’s crumbling roads.
After losing in that election, Rivest attempted a comeback in 2018. He told media he had been a resident of Ward 6 for 50 years, and he wanted to see growth in businesses and more affordable seniors’ housing.
Among his achievements during his 17 years as a municipal councillor are introducing the Barry Downe extension into the official plan, the creation of a skate park at the Lion’s Club location in Hanmer, as well as having a weight room at the Howard Armstrong Centre.
Rivest was also a fourth-degree member of the Knights of Columbus Local 5005.
“He was a self-taught ragtime, honky-tonk piano player,” said his obituary.
A private family graveside gathering will be held.
In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of choice is appreciated.
He is survived by his wife, Mariette Bradley.
