Former North Glengarry Mayor Chris McDonell has died.
McDonell died at Ottawa Civic Hospital on Thursday, October 17 at age 81.
The former mayor’s 18-year political career followed a 40-year career with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) that began in 1969. He retired in 2009 as a Detective Constable.
McDonell served as a Councillor at Large, Deputy Mayor and later Mayor for North Glengarry. McDonell entered his first election race in November 2000, when he was elected at “councillor at large”. He was re-elected to this position in 2003. In 2006, he ran for Deputy Mayor, winning a closely contested election against two other opponents. He maintained this position during the 2010 election, which he won by acclamation. Running for Mayor in the January 2012 by-election, McDonell was elected and again re-elected by acclamation during the 2014 municipal election.
McDonell also served as Warden of the Counties of Stormont-Dundas-Glengarry in 2009.
McDonell was a huge supporter of his community. He was always attending events, even post retirement, in a truly caring Glengarian way. As Mayor and Councillor, he continuously worked on ensuring the residents were served well. “I am not sure if there is anyone who has held North Glengarry closer to their heart,” current North Glengarry Mayor Jamie MacDonald said. “He always operated in the best interest of our Township, and we are grateful for the legacy he put in place for North Glengarry.”
McDonell is survived by his wife Yvonne, a daughter, and two sons. He was also the eldest of 12 children.
Visitation for Chris McDonell will take place on Monday, October 21 and Tuesday, October 22 at the Munro-Morris Funeral Home in Alexandria. The funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, October 22 at St. Margaret of Scotland church in Glen Nevis. Complete details are available at https://memorials.munromorris.com/christopher-chris-mcdonell/5501355/index.php.
