Flags on all federal buildings and agencies in Chilliwack are at half-mast in recognition of the recent passing of former MP Chuck Strahl.
They'll be lowered from now until sunset on Aug. 19, to honour the well-loved and respected local politician.
He served Chilliwack and area for 18 years from the House of Commons as a member of Parliament, and cabinet minister in the Harper government holding several key portfolios.
Strahl passed away on Aug. 13, 2024 at the age of 67 after a battle with mesothelioma, a type of cancer associated with asbestos.
The former logger turned politician was voted in as MP in six elections.
The flags will be flown at half mast "as per the Rules for Half-masting the National Flag of Canada (Section 7)" according to a post from his son, MP Mark Strahl.
"Additionally, the flags on all Government of Canada buildings and establishments in the city of Chilliwack, British Columbia, and the flag on the Peace Tower in Ottawa will fly at half-mast from sunrise to sunset on August 23, 2024, the day of the memorial service of the late Chuck Strahl."
The flags follow state ceremonial and protocol from the Department of Canadian Heritage from the Government of Canada.
Tributes have been pouring in for the well-loved statesman who entered federal politics in 1993. Here is just a sampling of some of them.
Former MLA Barry Penner was saddened to learn of the former MP's passing.
"Chuck was an important mentor in my early days as MLA for Chilliwack, and I valued his support and advice. It was also an immense honour to share some family dinners with the Strahls. My thoughts are with his wife, Deb and their children and grandchildren...and their many friends who will feel this tremendous loss."
Former MLA John Les said his years of public service overlapped with that of Strahl for the entire 18 years.
Les called Chuck "a good friend and fellow politician."
"Chuck’s leadership abilities, integrity and insight were unmatched. He was widely and deservedly respected.
"Despite all his achievements, his family was always first and foremost in his life...I visited with him just a few short weeks ago, and although his disease was taking its toll, I fully expected to be visiting him again. What a shock that he’s gone.
"Condolences to all those near and dear to him. Rest in peace my friend."
Laurie Throness, who worked for him in Ottawa, called Strahl a "dear friend" and the "best of men" in his post.
"Strahl was wise, highly-intelligent and well-read, an insightful writer, serious and merry, a deeply sincere, old-world gentleman of flawless character, generous to a fault, ever-cheerful, fun and really funny, a godly and faithful husband and father.
"So I'm in mourning today. But what a gift and privilege to have known, lived and worked with Chuck Strahl."
A celebration of life for Charles (Chuck) Richard Strahl will be held on Friday, Aug. 23, at 1:30 p.m. at Chilliwack Alliance Church, 8700 Young Road.
