Longtime London politician Russ Monteith has died.
The three-term board of control member passed away Sunday night at the age of 85.
Monteith served on city council from 1997 to 2006. He returned for a brief five-month stint as a councillor in 2014, filling the Ward 5 vacancy left when Joni Baechler was appointed mayor.
"He was a good friend to many people, highly respected. He carried himself in an honourable and kind manner and he was always very calm, methodical, and intelligent to his approach to issues and discussions," said Baechler, who developed a close friendship with Monteith during the six years they served together on council.
"Russ was helpful in dealing with affordable housing and issues around affordable housing. We could always count on him to be a voice for people who didn't have as many opportunities as others."
Baechler said she learned over the weekend that Monteith had taken a turn for the worse and had planned to visit him on Monday before being notified of his passing by his brother Ken on Sunday night.
"He was highly approachable. He would always make sure the constituents knew that he was listening to their issues and their concerns and would always follow through on any concerns that were raised," said Baechler. "He was just a dedicated politician."
Monteith was a lawyer in London for four decades, specializing in estate law. He also served on the boards for University Hospital and the Pillar Nonprofit Network.
Tributes for Monteith have been pouring in through social media.
"Sad to learn of Russ Monteith’s passing. An old friend, and an honourable gentleman. He will be missed," tweeted Mayor Ed Holder.
Deputy Mayor Jesse Helmer referred to Monteith as a "truly decent, thoughtful man", while London West MP Kate Young recalled with fondness the political discussions she used to engage in with Monteith.
Funeral arrangements for Monteith have not yet been made public.