Sarnia residents are mourning the loss of "dedicated public servant" Wayne McMichael.
McMichael died suddenly on Thursday, March 16, at the age of 77.
According to his obituary, he started his career working for Canada Immigration in 1967 and retired as Senior Operations Manager in 1996.
"He was a knowledgeable and charismatic leader and he was very well respected by all his peers at Customs and Immigration at “440” the Blue Water Bridge," it reads. "He made friends all over the world through his career and remembered them all fondly. Dad would proudly share with you that he was instrumental in starting the Nexus program, one of his many career accomplishments."
McMichael acted as one of Santa's helpers to continue his father Harvey's legacy.
Harvey McMichael launched the Celebration of Lights at his Oak Street home in the 1980s and his family later donated the displays to be erected at Centennial Park during the holidays.
"Dad walked on every single bus for the celebration of lights tour and had a small gift for every single person. This was a tradition which he proudly and with great joy passed on to his son, Jason."
The display marked its 38th anniversary in 2022.
In a social media post over the weekend, Mayor Mike Bradley said McMichael was "larger than life."
"As a dedicated public servant, Santa, car buff, businessman and as an engaged citizen," Bradley added. "His greatest legacy is his family."
A visitation is planned Monday, March 20, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Smith Funeral Home on London Line in Sarnia.
A funeral service will be held Tuesday, March 21, at 10:30 a.m.