The town of Central Butte recently honored Alvin Klassen for his many hours of work in helping to make this community become a better place to live and do business.
Al was mayor from 2001-2016 and volunteered many hours of his time on several organizations throughout the years.
To honor his ongoing commitment, the town of Central Butte recently presented Al with a plaque listing all his accomplishments:
- Central Butte Lions Club (1965-2014)
- Central Butte United Church Board (2003-present)
- Central Butte Minor Hockey Association (1974-1984)
- Central Butte Economic Development Association (2007-2015)
- Lake Diefenbaker Tourism Association (2002-present)
- Agri-Sports Plex Fundraising Committee (1984)
- Initiated Development of Iver Main Place (2005)
- Board of Directors Iver Main Place Inc. (2005-2019)
- Klassen Auction Service (1974-2005)
Al has still been volunteering his time by watering the grass at the Splash Park in the summer months.
A heavy truck route access into the town has been set up with the cooperation of Central Butte Feeds and Nutrien Ag Solutions. This has been named Klassen Road and is the first access into the south side of Central Butte when traveling north on Highway # 19. A road to service our business community and honor a special volunteer.
If you see Al and Doreen thank them for contributing and being part of Central Butte and the surrounding area and Congratulations.
Alvin Klassen reflects on civic involvement in Central Butte
When I reflect on my civic involvement, I think back to 1967 when Central Butte was granted town status. Not that I was involved, however it was the time Gardner Dam was built and Lake Diefenbaker became a reality. The mayor and council of the day had the vision to brand the slogan Service Center of the Region. I trust their intent was to promote a business sector that would attract residence, tourism and serve the needs of the newly established region.
Other mayors, councillors, and administrators that followed certainly were guided with the same vision.
I was always driven by that slogan and during my tenure as mayor felt the need to set policies and initiatives that would not only attract businesses but support them in the necessary services they provided. Their involvement and input at monthly CEDA meetings regarding community projects provided their voice to the council chamber.
At the end of it all, it has been said many times and I do truly believe that it is not only the things you do that are important, it’s about people, places and memories.
PEOPLE: First to my wife Doreen and family for their support. My community involvement has given me an opportunity and pleasure to work with many people in this community. Folks like my good friend and mentor, Ken Galloway, and many others that were inspired, innovative, volunteered and contributed in so many ways to establish the many projects which have become part of our landscape.
PLACE: I guess I can say that for the past 80 years Central Butte has been my playground.
MEMORIES: It has been a great journey, and regardless of our future moves for Doreen and I, we will always have fond memories to share.
Al Klassen
