Councillor Brenda Parkinson made many contributions to the community during her eight years of service, and Sooke is a better place for having had the benefit of her passion and commitment. It was with heavy hearts that we learned of her passing on June 28, 2019, after a courageous battle with cancer.
The District of Sooke will host a memorial tree planting ceremony to honour Councillor Parkinson. The ceremony will take place at John Phillips Memorial Park at 2201 Otter Point Road, on Tuesday, August 6th at 1:00 p.m..
“Brenda will forever be remembered for her vision,” says Mayor Maja Tait. “A steadfast supporter of the arts, she sought opportunities to bring beauty into people’s lives.” Many of Sooke’s public art initiatives were spearheaded by Councillor Parkinson and she was involved in numerous community organizations and events that brought residents together to celebrate the talents of our local artists and musicians.
Inspired by our natural surroundings, Brenda supported efforts to augment the inherent beauty of Sooke. Her efforts led to increased floral displays throughout the town centre, improved seasonal adornments, including the decoration of two large Christmas trees, and consideration of tree protection regulations for municipal parks and boulevards. Councillor Parkinson was also the heart and soul of Sooke’s participation in the Communities in Bloom program, and her leadership saw Sooke awarded the highest level of recognition for the past 5 years.
“It is with these values in mind that Council chose to plant a tree in memory of Brenda, and to provide an opportunity for residents to gather and remember a public figure that impacted so many lives,” said Mayor Tait.
Event seating and covered weather protection areas will be limited. Please arrive prepared for a short walk to the tree planting location and consider bringing a lawn chair should you require seating.
Further details regarding parking will be announced and posted to the front page of www.sooke.ca by August 1, 2019. Traffic control personnel and signage will also be on-site to assist.
In addition to the tree planting ceremony, a book of condolences will be made available for those wishing to reflect on their memories of Brenda. The book will be placed at the District of Sooke municipal hall in advance of the ceremony and presented to the family.
For further information, please contact the District of Sooke at (250) 642-1634.
Media Contact:
Maja Tait, Mayor
Email: mtait@sooke.ca
News-Release-Councillor-Parkinson-Service