Former Lethbridge mayor David Carpenter passed away over the weekend at 76 years old.
Carpenter made significant contributions to the community during his five terms as mayor between 1986 and 2001, as well as his years as a then-alderman on City Council from 1977 to 1986.
He was also the second-longest serving mayor, tied with Mayor Hardie.
“For all that he meant to Lethbridge, he will be missed,” said Mayor Blaine Hyggen.
During his time on City Council, Carpenter was involved with the Railway Relocation Project, later known as the “CentreSite Project.”
It involved the removal of Canada Pacific Railway (CPR) tracks and facilities from the centre of Lethbridge and the redevelopment of the land for commercial and non-commercial uses.
First known for his career as a chartered accountant, Carpenter’s other involvements while on Council included the Nicholas Sheran Ice Arena opening in 1986, the Third Avenue Extension into Indian Battle Park, the opening of Chinook Regional Hospital, the construction of Park Place Shopping Centre and the opening of the current City Hall in 2000.
After his time on Council, Carpenter was awarded four commemorative medals, as Honourary Lieutenant-Colonel of the 20th Independent Field Battery and Honourary Colonel of the 18th Air Defence Regiment.
He also served as chair on the Board of Directors of the Workers’ Compensation Board, and he received a Blackfoot name recognizing the relationships he built with the Blackfoot community.
In 2015, Carpenter was appointed administrator for Alberta Health Services to provide governance oversight of the province-wide health authority.
In honour of the former mayor, flags have been lowered to half-mast at City Hall until sunset on Friday.
A photo, a bouquet of flowers, a book for condolences, and the City of Lethbridge flag, will be on display at City Hall.
