Bob McGhee (Red Deer Archives)

By Troy Gillard

12 years in mayor's chair

Bob McGhee, former Mayor of Red Deer, passes away

May 27, 2021 | 9:47 AM

Bob McGhee, who served as Red Deer’s mayor form 1980 to 1992, has passed away.

McGhee died May 22 at the Red Deer Hospice with his family by his side. He was 88.

“Mayor Bob McGhee was a faithful public servant who cared immeasurably for our community,” Red Deer Mayor Tara Veer said Thursday in a statement. “He distinguished himself not only in politics, but also in sport and business through his leadership, hard work and service.”

Veer said McGhee’s many leadership contributions to our city and region include the construction of Red Deer Regional Hospital, the moving of the Westerner Exposition grounds from downtown to the city’s southern outskirts, and the relocation of the C.P.R. rail line from the heart of the community to the west side.

“His greatest legacy was his support of the development of Waskasoo Park along the Red Deer River and Waskasoo/Piper Creeks,” Veer shared.

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“Mayor McGhee was a dedicated Red Deerian and Albertan,” she declared.

“On behalf of City Council, The City of Red Deer, and the citizens of our community, we want to express our deepest condolences to his family and his many friends. Please know that we share your grief, and are so grateful for Bob’s life and legacy, and his many contributions in exemplary public service to our community and province.”