The late Norm Walter, a tireless and dedicated community leader for the Regional District of East Kootenay’s Electoral Area E, was remembered in a touching tree planting service at Wycliffe Regional Park July 8.

Following the regular monthly board meeting, board directors, some RDEK staff, friends and Norm’s family gathered at the regional park to dedicate a tree in his memory.

“Norm was a great supporter of Wycliffe Regional Park and he had a way of reaching the hearts of people, so it is fitting that his memorial tree is situated in the heart of the park. There are future plans to construct a round trail in the park, and the area where the tree has been planted will be the start and end point for the trail,” reported RDEK director of communications Loree Duczek.

The tree is a Canadian Emerald Queen Maple, known for its strength and ability to thrive in even the most challenging conditions. As it grows, it will have a beautiful big canopy, Duczek said.

“The tree will not only stand as a legacy to Norm’s service to our region, but will also give Norm’s family and friends a place to gather and remember him,” she added.

Norm’s place at the regional board table was taken by his wife, Jane, who won a by-election last winter, taking more than 50% of the votes cast for four candidates.

Norm was working on his third term with regional board, including one as regional board chair, when he was felled by a heart attack.

Ian Cobb/e-KNOW

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