CORNWALL, Ontario – Politicians of all stripes are paying homage to a long-time mayor in North Dundas who was tragically killed on the weekend while cutting down trees on his property.
Alvin Runnalls, 77, died on Saturday.
Runnalls served two terms as Mayor of the Township of North Dundas from 2004 to 2010. Prior to that, he served two terms as a councillor. He also served as warden of the United Counties of SD&G in 2005.
“We were all saddened to hear of Alvin’s passing on Saturday evening,” said North Dundas Mayor Eric Duncan. “Our thoughts are with his wife Dawn, his daughters, and their family during this difficult time. Alvin was well known in the community, both as a member of council, but also as a long-time volunteer for many organizations.
“North Dundas is a better community because of his service and commitment to us.”
Those sentiments were echoed by North Dundas CAO Angela Rutley.
“Township of North Dundas staff join the community in mourning the loss of Alvin,” she said. “In his time on council, Alvin was a very enthusiastic, hard-working, humble person. He was very supportive of the community and staff, always striving to make improvements and make people happy. His positive attitude and sense of humour made him a pleasure to work with. We have lost a great friend and community champion.”
Funeral arrenagements and a detailed history of Runnalls’ contributions to life as a political figure have been posted online.