District of Squamish remembers Terrill Patterson

The District of Squamish said it is saddened to learn about the passing of Terrill Patterson.

“The outpouring of respect and sharing of memories from the community has been heartwarming to read, and has provided District Council and staff with an opportunity to remember Terrill’s frequent visits to Municipal Hall, and his regular participation in elections and public meetings,” district said.

Terrill sat as a District of Squamish Alderman under Mayor Egon Tobus from November 1985 to December 1987, and actively participated in local politics.

Mayor Karen Elliott recalls the first time she met Terrill during the 2014 election campaign. “Terrill had brought a ship as a prop and had an elaborate speech about the ship going down. Little did I know then of his history on council, his commitment to democracy, and his ability to be a watchdog and keep track of local council. He knew so much and had strong opinions which he so often blended with his unique sense of humour.”

Terrill’s knowledge of the zoning bylaw was second-to-none, and he regularly weighed in on council business with or without invitation. There was a time when his disruptiveness got him temporarily banned from council chambers, though his intelligence, passion for the community, and likely his props, enabled his return to his audience seat in short order, district recalled in its tribute.

District staff also shared their fond memories of Terrill.

“With Terrill’s deep interest and engagement in municipal activities over decades, he was an awesome resource, especially for new staff. I’m pretty sure he had a photographic memory as he could tell you of past Council decisions that led to specific outcomes – almost to the meeting date or page of a bylaw,” says Sarah McJannet, District of Squamish Planner.

“He was always on the lookout for good governance and transparency, and he was always there for us to share the last cookies with at any public meeting. We grew fond of his presence.”

Terrill was also a great ambassador for Squamish and may have unwittingly contributed to its growth, remembers Neil Plumb, the District’s Real Estate Manager.

“In 1994, I happened to meet Terrill while stopping for gas on my way to Whistler. I told him I was going to Whistler to camp and go mountain biking, and he told me I could do those things in Squamish and not have to drive so far,” recalls Plumb.

“So my next trip was to Squamish… and here I still am! I doubt he remembered that conversation, but I will never forget it.”

District of Squamish Corporate Officer Robin Arthurs said Terrill’s commitment to the electoral process was unwavering.

“Terrill was a big believer in democracy and the power of the polls. He did not like to see civic leaders acclaimed and preferred to see an election, which is why he ran for all offices to make a race: Mayor, Councillor, Trustee, SLRD director,” says.

“The irony is that he got his own seat on Council by acclamation due to a paperwork error by his opponent.  He told me that always bugged him.”

In recent years, Terrill stepped back from his regular visits to Municipal Hall.

“He was a regular fixture at council meetings in the first few years of my first term, but we all noticed his attendance start to drop off,” continues Elliott. “I have so much respect for anyone who lets their name stand for election. Terrill did it again and again and again. He will be missed.”

The district said it wishes to extend its sincere condolences to Terrill’s family.

“We hope through the many memories shared, those who didn’t know him will see what a special person he was to Squamish. His presence, his wit and his commitment to community will be genuinely missed.”