Tributes have been pouring in after the death of four-term Langford councillor and Westshore Rebels Football general manager Roger Wade.
Langford Mayor Scott Goodmanson issued a statement saying that Wade, who was 61, “is fondly remembered as a trusted and devoted council member.”
“His exemplary leadership through his many years on council and various committees will continue to resonate in the community,” Goodmanson said. “He worked tirelessly to ensure Langford thrived as a flourishing community and a city that provided recreational opportunities for all families, while ensuring sustainable growth and development.
“He strongly supported the belief that sports bring a sense of belonging to the residents and helps build a stronger, more connected community.”
Flags in the municipality were lowered to half-mast in Wade’s honour.
The Rebels team said on its website that Wade’s “dedication and passion” for both the Rebels and t Langford were unparalleled, and he will be greatly missed.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family — his wife Gina and his children Danica, Stephen, and Gianna — as well as his friends and everyone in our football community during this difficult time.”
Wade, who lived in Langford for close to 40 years, was also a former board member for the Victoria Shamrocks and the Triangle Athletic Association.
Former Langford mayor Stew Young, who served with Wade for the councillor’s four terms on council, beginning in 2008, described him as “a gentle giant” who played an important role in Langford’s growth.
He said it was “shocking news” when he got a call on Tuesday that Wade had died.
“He was a good friend to me,” Young said. “He was always nice to everybody and everybody liked him, and he worked really hard for the city and got a lot of stuff done.”
Wade was also a key leader in sports and recreation in the community, he said. “He coached and he did a lot in his spare time.”
Friend and fellow former councillor Lanny Seaton said Wade was a big man with a big heart, and played football himself in his youth. “He was such a great guy, he was lots of fun.”
Seaton said that he and Wade served on the parks and recreation committee together, with him as chair and Wade as vice-chair.
“He was always about recreation and kids,” Seaton said. “He always worked hard for the kids in the community.
“I’m going to miss him.”
