By Jessica Lepp

Kamloops reaction to passing of former Premier Bill Bennett

Dec 4, 2015 | 3:40 PM

KAMLOOPS — Former Premier of B.C. Bill Bennett died yesterday in Kelowna. He was 83 and had been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for several years.

Bennett succeeded his father W.A.C. Bennett as leader of the Social Credit party in 1972 after his father was defeated in a provincial election by Dave Barrett and the NDP. Three years later, under Bill Bennet’s leadership, the Socreds swept to power. He remained Premier until stepping down in 1986.

According to Bennet’s former Principle Secretary and longtime friend Bud Smith, his government will be remembered for it’s battles with B.C.’s big unions but also for many legacies including the construction of B.C. Place Stadium, Expo ’86 in Vancouver and the Coquihalla Highway. 

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While Bennett is applauded for his hard work and contributions to the province, he is also being remember as a humble man with a big heart.

Read more: Former B.C. premier Bill Bennett dies at 83