Council's emotional sendoff

Photo: City of Kelowna

Kelowna city council observed a moment of silence prior to Monday's meeting for long-time employee Rob Mayne.

Mayne, who had been with the city in various capacities for 27 years, passed away suddenly Thursday morning.

He was 54.

Mayor Colin Basran fought back tears as he remembered Mayne.

"Rob was loved and admired for his humble, and thoughtful approach to leadership. Everyone who worked with him knows he was an accomplished manager, and insightful about many aspects of the work here at the city," said Basran.

"What really shines through is how he treated people, both inside and outside the organization."

Mayne was divisional director of corporate services and protective services at the time of his passing.

It was a large portfolio, which included police, bylaw and fire services, purchasing and the office of the city clerk.

"We wanted to take a moment today to express our condolences to his partner Martina, his three adult boy Kurtis, Brandon and Travis, and his family and friends.

"He was a really good, really smart man, and we are all going to miss our friend Rob."

Several people who worked with Mayne were in the gallery to pay their respects.