Flags are flying at half mast outside Smithers Town Hall following the passing of former mayor Cress Farrow.
Farrow served one term as mayor before being defeated by Taylor Bachrach in 2011.
He also served as a councillor for three terms.
In addition, Farrow was instrumental in putting in motion the protocol with the Office of the Wet’suwet’en as well as finishing the runway expansion project at the Smithers Airport.
Mayor Gladys Attrill says she crossed paths with Farrow on several occasions before making the jump to civic politics.
“I knew Cress first in his business as I worked downtown so I knew him very casually that way and then over the years as he was active in council just as a resident I knew. Cress was also known for a beautiful light display at Christmas.”
“His contribution is recognized as he was well known by many and as people who are on council they not only work on the council in the community, they represent the community on other boards.”
Attrill also mentioned Farrow was a pretty colourful personality when out in the community.
“He was known for riding his bike and playing his guitar and singing songs at chamber functions as well. There is always than who we see as a political – he was an individual in the community as well.”
Bachrach took to Facebook and called Farrow a kind man who always had the community’s well-being top of mind.
Prior to becoming mayor, Farrow ran Apex Cleaning in Smithers.