It is with a heavy heart today that we announce the passing of former Mayor Russ Arnott. Mayor Arnott passed away surrounded by the comfort of his family on November 11, 2022.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to his wife Yolonda Lewis, family, friends and co-workers. During his time in office, Mayor Arnott has showed a genuine love for the people and this community. He led the Town through the years of the unprecedented pandemic and helped to build resiliency for a brighter tomorrow. Mayor Arnott lived to serve people, to make a difference, and inspire others to do the same. He will be greatly missed, but his legacy and visionary attributes will live forever.
The Town’s flags have been lowered to half-mast at Town Hall in honour and memory of Mayor Arnott’s great contributions to Comox.
“When you think about service, you think about Russ and what he accomplished both professionally and personally,” said Mayor, Nicole Minions. “It seems almost everyone has a story or a special moment that reflects his nature of giving and now we need to share these stories to keep and move forward his vision of positive change.”
“Working with Russ has been an honour these past years. His dedication and love for our community and the people was evident every day in the commitment he brought to being Mayor, a resident, and neighbour,” said Jordan Wall, the Town’s Chief Administrative Officer. “He took a lot of pride in his roles and was always a big supporter of the staff in our organization. He will be missed.”
Recently, Mayor Arnott received the prestige award the “Freedom of the Town” for his tireless efforts to the community. He was elected to the Office of Councillor for the Town in 2008 and again in 2014. Elected Mayor in 2018. He spent a total of 11 years volunteering his time and efforts towards the enhanced livability of the Town of Comox. Mayor Arnott served on several boards and committees over the years, including Comox BIA, Community Justice Centre, d’Esterre Seniors Centre, Marina Enhancement Committee, Nautical Days Committee, Comox Valley Accessibility Committee, Comox Valley Economic Development Society, Comox Valley Environmental Council, and the Comox Valley Sewer Commission.
Russ was a friend to many; his kindness, generosity, and passion will live on as strong values upheld in our community.