Former Wellington County Warden and Guelph Township Reeve Les Foote passed away last week in his 86th year.
Leslie George “Les” Foote was a retired 30-year employee of Imperial Tobacco and a lifetime farmer.
His political career included service as a councillor of Guelph (Eramosa) Township (1988-2006), reeve of Guelph Township (1991-1998) and warden of Wellington County (1997).
Guelph-Eramosa council took a moment to recognize Foote’s contribution to the community at its meeting on July 14, recalling his quiet demeanor with respect and admiration.
Mayor Chris White said he often looked to Foote for advice and guidance.
“He was very wise and very dignified. When he spoke he knew what he was saying so you could always look to him for advice,” White said.
“As time went by, you began to realize how valuable that man was. And I made more and more calls to him – this township has been very fortunate to be served by Les.”
Councillor Doug Breen also reflected on the guidance Foote gave council.
“Les said very, very little, but everything he said was important and if we had a room full of people, every time he started to speak they would just stop and listen to what he had to say, because you knew whatever he was adding to the conversation was worthy of us sitting down and being quiet,” Breen said.
Foote passed away peacefully at The Elliott Home, Guelph with family by his side on July 9.
Cremation has taken place and a service to celebrate Foote’s life will be held at Barrie Hill United Church on July 20 at 2pm with a reception to follow in the church hall.
Memorial donations may be made to Mimosa United Church by contacting Wall-Custance Funeral Home and Chapel at 519-822-0051 or www.wallcustance.com.
