Oshawa in mourning after death of former long-time councillor
Former long-time Oshawa City Councillor John Aker has died.
Aker passed away on Thursday, Feb. 4 surrounded by friends and family at the age of 78 years.
“Aker dedicated his life to his family, and the service of others within the City of Oshawa, and the Region of Durham,” states his obituary.
Aker was first elected to Oshawa City Council as an Alderman in 1973 serving as both city and regional councillor from 1974 to 1997 when he stepped away to join the Ontario Municipal Board.
A 10-year member of the board, Aker returned to local government in 2010 where he served two more terms as a city and regional councillor.
“A life-long resident of Oshawa, John was proud to serve his community and was an inspiration to those around him,” says Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter. “John helped guide our city through important years of transformation and growth and he will be greatly missed.
A number of Oshawa councillors also shared their remarks for Aker through statements on social media.
“A very astute politician, John absolutely loved his work in the service of others,” says City Council Rick Kerr, who recalls his fondest memory of Aker, in his first term of council, was his “willingness to share this amazing recall of all things to do with development in our city.”
“Many of us had the chance to work with John and will remember his many years of service and commitment to the city,” says City and Regional Brian Nicholson.
City Councillor Derek Giberson states, “Although our political leanings were different, John was always friendly and supportive towards me and a good example of the reality that municipal politics was a space where productive work could be done across differences in political alignments, or particular relevance in an era of hyper-partisan politics.”
City and Regional Councillor Tito-Dante Marimpietri also extended his condolences to Aker and his family.
“From our collaboration on the development of projects, to your service as a former chair, your contribution to helping build our community will be remembered,” he states.
Flags at Oshawa City Hall and city facilities have been lowered to half-mast in memory of the former councillor and a book of condolences is available on the city’s website.
Aker leaves behind his wife Teresa, his six children, Kelly, Clare, Kathryn, Krystle, Angela, and Michael, and nine grandchildren.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private family funeral will be held at the DeStefano Funeral Home in Oshawa on Wednesday, Feb. 10 at 1 p.m. A live stream link will be available just prior to the service time.
Those interested in making a donation in Aker’s memory can donate to Asthma, or a charity of the person’s choosing.
Memories can be shared and the live stream link for the funeral service is available through the DeStefano Funeral Home website.