John Angus, who dedicated many years to serving as a city councillor in south Winnipeg’s former St. Norbert ward, is being honored as a municipal “legend” and “political titan” following his passing earlier this week.
His wife, Janice Charko, shared that Angus passed away on Tuesday at the age of 83.
She described her husband as an “honest” and lively politician, known for his great sense of humor and determination to accomplish tasks – especially while on Winnipeg’s city council.
“He had experience in all three levels of politics, but the city level was the one he enjoyed the most because he could see real changes happen,” Charko explained.
Angus was first elected as the city councillor for the former St. Norbert ward in 1977 and served on council for over ten years before transitioning to provincial politics as the area’s Liberal MLA in the late 1980s.
However, Charko noted that he didn’t find much satisfaction working in the Legislature because he felt there was too much emphasis on arguing with other parties.
“He didn’t feel like he was really making progress or getting anything done for his constituents that way,” she said.
As a result, Angus returned to Winnipeg’s council in 1992 and stayed until leaving City Hall in 2005.
John Angus retired from City Hall, shown here in the summer, in 2005. (Jaison Empson/CBC)
Justin Swandel worked alongside Angus during his last five years on council, initially serving as his executive assistant and later succeeding him as the ward’s councillor.
Swandel remarked that Angus showed a “great deal of political courage” and had a solid grasp of complex policy matters.
“To me, John is somewhat of a legend. There aren’t many people left who could do what John did,” he stated, adding that Angus made a visible impact through buildings and bridges while also influencing policies that shaped daily operations at City Hall.
Image:John Angus’ former executive assistant and city council successor Justin Swandel says Angus, pictured, was a ‘legend’ who made a significant difference in Winnipeg. (Submitted by Janice Charko)
Janice Charko reflected how john angus , pictured , had larger than life personality. (Submitted by Janice Charko) She described him as quite romantic – noting they first met while stranded waiting for flights at Montreal airport almost four decades ago when they connected instantly based upon shared interests. (picture) p >< span
Over these past few days friends & family have been sharing stories remembering him fondly; recalling anecdotes highlighting humorous moments from life together. celebration planned next week Beausejour chosen midway point between locationsincluding photos music etc. ( celebration details )
(chosen location ). p. m. A memorial service will be held Sobering Funeral Chapel at Beausejour October **23** ;11 o’clock AM.Source link
