In praise of a good man

In the fall of 2009, a group of anglers proposed a pier be built in the middle of Shannon Lake. The neighbourhood association opposed it. 

As editor of the neighbourhood newsletter, I called Coun. Duane Ophus for comment. Duane was also a regional district board member. I figured he would be “in the know.” He was.

He said the proposed pier would be “too large and intrusive on the lake.” He also expressed concerns about parking and traffic. Voicing the concerns of the neighbourhood, he spoke against the proposal.

That was my first dealing with Ophus. It was indicative of the type of councillor I’ve come to know: informed, reasonable, approachable, decisive and the interests of the community always foremost. 

We became friends. And, during the last municipal election, he asked me to manage his campaign. It wasn’t too demanding. His long-standing respect in the community was self-evident. We didn’t campaign too hard, and he still received more votes than any councillor except Rick de Jong.

I’ve never known him to be petty or hold a grudge. He’s always had an open mind and is happy to debate the merits of any issue, based on facts. When the soccer association was at an impasse with the city, it was Duane’s quiet leadership that found a way to create an agreement.

He’s chosen not to run this election, so he can spend more time with his bride. Our community has been well served by his guidance. His presence will be missed on the next council.

Gordon Wiebe, West Kelowna