Image credit: District of Logan Lake
Chris Candy

Late Logan Lake councillor remembered for community leadership and disaster response

Jul 19, 2023 | 7:50 AM

LOGAN LAKE, B.C. — The District of Logan Lake says a current councillor and longtime first responder passed away this week.

In a news release, the District confirmed the passing of Councillor Chris Candy on Tuesday (July 18). Candy was first elected to council in the October 2022 municipal election.

Councillor Candy was a pillar of our community who was a great colleague, friend and role model in his field,” Logan Lake Mayor Robin Smith stated. “He championed many important causes throughout his career and will be remembered as a community supporter and kind soul with a great sense of humor and a quick wit. I have many fond memories of laughing with him as he recalled tales from his past and imparted wisdom on us for the future. He will be missed by all of us.”

Candy served as the deputy emergency coordinator for the District of Logan Lake from 2009 to 2022 and was involved in responding to natural disasters such as the flooding of Logan Lake in 2017 and the Tremont Creek wildfire in 2021. He also served as a primary care paramedic for 38 years.

“He stayed behind to help set up the [emergency operations centre] including washing clothes for the firefighters and setting up the triage center here at the firehall for blisters and cuts,” Doug Wilson, Logan Lake fire chief said. “He also fed many of the pets that stayed behind. During the flooding in Merritt and surrounding area in 2021 Chris set up the [emergency support services] team at the recreation center to help register and collect donations for those that where displaced. He was a mentor to me here at the firehall, teaching me the ways through the Emergency Coordination role.

Flags at the District Office will remain lowered to recognize Candy’s passing. The flags were lowered on July 5 to honour the passing of Merritt Councillor Claire Newman, who previously served 14 years on Logan Lake’s council from 2008 to 2022.

The District says more information will be released as it becomes available.