Stan Hagen Dies

Tuesday, January 20, 2009 09:03 PM

VICTORIA - Premier Gordon Campbell released the following statement today after learning of the sudden passing of Agriculture and Lands Minister and Comox Valley MLA Stan Hagen:

"The province has suffered a great loss with the passing of my friend and colleague, Stan Hagen. He was a man who gave of himself to public life from 1986 until today. He loved British Columbia and the people who live here. Our thoughts and prayers are with Judy and all his children as they mourn the passing of their father.

"Stan served as minister of 10 different ministries in governments from 1986 to 2009. No one in Canadian public life can match that. Whether as Minister of Advanced Education or Agriculture and Lands, Stan's record was one of exemplary service. He worked with people in a way that encouraged them to do their best as he worked on their behalf.

"His passing reminds us all of the suddenness of life and of the time we take away from our families to serve. It reminds us of the importance of friendship and inner strength, two characteristics that defined the man.

"All British Columbians have suffered a loss today. Our gratitude goes to Stan's family for sharing him with all of us. He embodied the spirit of 'the Honourable Member of the Legislature'. He will be sorely

missed."

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Posted on Tuesday, January 20, 2009 09:03 PM in News by 250 News

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Comments

Posted by: Eagleone on January 21 2009 3:54 AM

I'm not sure if I've ever heard of a serving minister passing before. Is this a first in BC? Raises all sorts of questions....

My condolences go out to his family.

Posted by: Big-Wayne on January 21 2009 5:09 PM

although i may not have agreed on his politics my condolences to his family & friends

Posted by: socredible on January 21 2009 6:16 PM

Why would it raise all sorts of questions, Eagle? Someone else will be appointed Minister of Agriculture and Lands to replace Mr. Hagen. We know that the general election is going to be held in May, and the Legislature will re-convene before that, in mid-February.

There doesn't seem to be much sense in holding a by-election, since by the time that could be arranged and held the legislative session would likely be at least half over. And we'll be going to the polls anyways within a month or two of that.

Mr. Hagen was one of Gordon Campbell's more competent Ministers, although hardly in his "inner circle". As a former one-term (so-called) "Social Credit" Cabinet Minister and MLA under Premier Vander Zalm he was extremely effective as an administrator, and in gaining many long lasting benefits for the people of the Comox Valley. He had far less success in that area under Campbell, but his previous accomplishments have left a legacy that will be long remembered by his riding's constituents.

Posted by: lostfaith on January 21 2009 7:37 PM

I have his signatures on my trade certificates.
RIP Stan!