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Mayor offers thanks to staff, community following son's death

'Myself and my family have been overwhelmed by the care and compassion we've received from this whole community,' Dan Marchisella said during his address at City Council
2020-08-31 Dan Marchisella Facebook
Dan Marchisella. Source: Facebook

In his report to Elliot Lake City Council at Monday night's regular meeting, Mayor Dan Marchisella issued a statement and some words of public thanks following the untimely death of his 17-year-old son Brody earlier this month.

"Our family is still recovering from the loss off our 17-year-old son in the last two weeks. He was a thoughtful and caring young man who was beginning to show much potential for his future," the mayor stated. "No words can express the loss which has been felt by our whole family and also by you.

"No parent should have to experience such pain and emptiness. But I will say we are blessed to have you in our lives. We did have a private farewell last weekend. Thank you everybody who participated.

"I want to express my gratitude to the EMS staff that was led by Dennis Bastien, the OPP squad led by Sergeant Gordon, Constable Hutchison, Constable Phil Young and Commander Sturgeon. Your caring consideration for our family was absolutely extraordinary. And we're truly grateful to all people, along with the ladies from the Counselling Centre of East Algoma for jumping in immediately and taking care of my other two children, and my mother.

"Fire Chief John Thomas, I wish he was here this evening, with William Elliott at his side. The time you took for us I know was your personal time. And we still had closure. And I can't tell you how grateful I am. I can't thank you enough.

"I am thankful for the support of all of you on council. City staff, many of you have gone out of your way to comfort our family.

"Both myself and my family have been overwhelmed by the care and compassion we've received from this whole community.

Looking forward, the mayor had these words: "A lot of questions in the last two weeks about my position on council – I would just want everyone to know that I am still committed to this community. And I'll continue to strive to do the best job I can, as long as I have the privilege of sitting in this chair."



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About the Author: Brent Sleightholm

As a reporter, Brent has covered everything from amateur and professional sports, to politics, entertainment, police and courts, to human interest stories and government issues
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