Politicians who worked with former MLA John Slater are mourning his passing this week.
Boundary-Similkameen MLA Linda Larson said the news of his death was very sad, but not unexpected as he had been in poor health during the last few months.
“He was always my friend. I could rely on him to support me in whatever committee or project I was involved in. He had a smile and a hug for everyone he met,” Larson said.
The MLA noted that Slater supported the rebuild of Southern Okanagan Secondary School and helped move many projects forward during his time as MLA.
Slater was a former mayor and councillor for the Town of Osoyoos.
Premier Christy Clark issued the following statement regarding
his death.
“I am deeply saddened to hear John Slater has passed away. John was a
caucus colleague and a friend.
“John Slater was passionate about his home, and the people who make Osoyoos
special. That passion led to 30 years of dedicated service to the community
he loved.”
Clark said Slater lent his time to everything from coaching youth sports and
volunteering with the chamber of commerce, to standing for public office –
first as a councillor, then mayor, and finally as MLA.
“But no matter what his official title was, John always thought of himself
first and foremost as a farmer.”
Clark said Slater took on the challenge of laying the groundwork to modernize century-
old legislation to protect BC’s fresh water.
“He was very proud of the Water Sustainability Act – and for good reason.”
Throughout the Boundary-Similkameen, you can find the fruits of Slater’s hard work, including the new high school in Oliver, the new Horizon Health Centre in Osoyoos, the expanded Midway Arena, and new highway improvements
and public walkways.
“Like everyone who knew him, I will always remember John’s quick smile,
good humour, and infectious laugh,” Clark said.
No information was released as to the cause of his death.
