Myles Murdock has died, 2nd Goderich Mayor to die in office in as many years | CBC News

Goderich, Ont., Mayor Myles Murdock has died, the second mayor to have died in office in the community in as many years.

The town announced his death on Friday on its website, saying Murdock “served the residents of Goderich with dedication, commitment, and leadership.”

“Everyone’s shocked right now,” said Deputy Mayor Trevor Bazinet. “It’s hard to put into words, but I think we’re all grateful for the time that we had with him and there’s memories that will live forever.”

Bazinet said Murdock was a school teacher, a coach, and a friend and mentor to many.

“He was a person that was involved,” he said. “Any committee that we would have in the Town of Goderich, you would probably see Myles Murdock’s name on it, so it’s a huge loss for our community.”

Murdock was diagnosed with cancer in January. He leaves behind his wife, Cathy, and daughter, Alecia.

Flags at municipal buildings within the community were at half mast Friday to pay tribute to the late mayor. 

“Myles had a passion for many different issues and initiatives, with a keen interest in environmental stewardship, health care, housing, and economic development,” the statement from the town said. 

Steve Clark, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, paid tribute to Murdock with a post on the social media website X (formerly known as Twitter).

Murdock served two terms as town councillor from 2006 to 2010 and then from 2014 to 2018. 

He was elected deputy mayor in 2018 and served until he was elected mayor last year. 

Murdock stepped in as mayor following the sudden death of Goderich Mayor John Grace following a boating accident on a lake north of Thunder Bay in 2022. 

Murdock was elected Mayor of Goderich later that year.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced by his family.