Flags at civic buildings in Ponoka were at half-mast last week to honour former town councillor Werner Nielsen who died Dec. 30 at the age of 83.
Serving as a councillor for three terms from 1983 to 1992, Nielsen was known for his concern for taxpayers, explained Mayor Larry Henkelman, who worked as a councillor with Nielsen for two terms.
“He was always a very strong, budget-minded councillor.”
Henkelman recalls Nielsen sat on committees that assisted with the public works and was a level-headed individual.
“He never got over-excited. He was just a calm person,” he said.
“He took his role as a councillor seriously… his input at council was always respected.”
Nielsen was born Aug. 16 1929 in the Ferrybank District and was the 10th child of 12.
Fire Chief Ted Dillon said Nielsen involved himself in the community. Nielsen was a member of the Rimoka Housing Foundation, the Kinsmen Club as well as a volunteer firefighter for 34 years. Not only did Nielsen take almost every call that came in, he also managed the department’s finances until 2007.
“He was probably more dedicated to the department than anybody,” explained Dillon.
Nielsen was active with the Ponoka Fire Department from 1961 to 1995 and became deputy chief in 1976. He was also knowledgeable of the nature of home fires and there was no time a fire ever rekindled under Nielsen’s watch, said Dillon.
“Sometimes it used to drive us nuts but we appreciated him at the same time.”
One of Nielsen’s joys was being able to ride the department’s old 1930 fire truck in the Stampede parade and he missed only a handful of rides.
“He was just a joy to be around…You could always count on Werner whatever you were doing,” explained Dillon.
Dillon also credits Nielsen’s wife, Helen, for helping the fire department during dinners and other events.
“He was a great guy, and he is going to be missed in the community.” Nielsen was married to Helen for 63 years. Memorial service was held at the Ponoka Funeral Home Jan. 12 at 2 p.m.