Former East Zorra-Tavistock councillor passes away

Former East Zorra-Tavistock councillor Don Lazenby passed away peacefully at home March 12 at the age of 87. Contributed photo

By Lee Griffi

A former East Zorra-Tavistock (EZT) councillor was remembered at last week’s council meeting.

The township’s flags were lowered to honour the passing of Don Lazenby, who served on council from 2010-2014. The township released a statement on social media following his passing.

“Mayor, council and staff extend their deepest sympathies to the Lazenby family, and we ask that the community keep Don’s family in your thoughts as they navigate this difficult time.”

Coun. Jeremy Smith, who has been on council since 2006, said it was an honour to serve with Lazenby.

“He was the wise elder at the council table when we were across the street in that term. He brought a background in education and agriculture to his work as a township councillor. His impressive resume included induction in 2004 into the Ontario Agriculture Hall of Fame for his innovation and systems development in the dairy sector,” said Smith.

Lazenby was also awarded the Ontario Bicentennial Certificate of Merit, the Ontario Junior Farmers Lifetime Achievement Award and the Canadian 4-H Council Leadership Award.

“Known for his consensus building, he was an integral force in the formation of the Hickson trail committee during his term of council, which led to significant improvements to the functionality of the trail that continues to be enjoyed by users to this day.”

Lazenby passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, March 12, at the age of 87.

He was a high school teacher at Woodstock Collegiate Institute and College Avenue Secondary School before returning to the family dairy farm.

In retirement, he pursued his passion of breeding and working with Percheron draft horses. He was a longtime member of Oxford Baptist Church where he provided leadership through his involvement with the deacons’ board and building committee.

A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, April 11, at Oxford Baptist Church (595465 Oxford 59, Woodstock). Visitation will begin at 1 p.m. with a service at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Lazenby’s memory can be made to the Oxford Baptist Church building fund or Diabetes Canada.