The District of Logan Lake says Allan Smith, the longest serving councillor in its history, has died at the age of 80.

In a statement, district officials say Smith died on Saturday, Oct. 15.

“On behalf of Council and all District staff, we’d like to extend our most heartfelt condolences to the family and friends who have been so impacted by this loss,” the District said. “We have valued Al’s contributions to Council and the Community and we will miss his strong, steady, and continuous leadership at the table.”

“Al was a true community Champion who donated so much time and energy to our beautiful town and his investment of time has made Logan Lake an even better place for all of us to live, work and play for many years to come.”

A resident of Logan Lake for nearly 50 years, Smith was first elected in Nov. 1973, and served for a total of 31 years as councillor. He was unsuccessful in his bid for re-election this year, finishing with 232 votes.

Smith worked at Highland Valley Copper for much of his career with the District noting he took on supervisory roles, staff and contractor positions at the mine.

“He was well respected by colleagues in both his political career and his chosen profession of mining,” the statement added. “Al’s impact is far reaching and he’s left an incredible legacy in his wake.”

“He thoroughly enjoyed helping people, taking part in community events and had a passion for public service, public works and was an active contributor to the Logan Lake Community Forest. Al was a mentor to many others throughout his career and we’re grateful to have had him to teach us so much for so long.”

Flags at the Logan Lake municipal office have been lowered half-staff with the District saying more details regarding funeral arrangements will be released when available.