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Former Crossfield Mayor Mike Budd passes away, funeral to be held next Sunday

James Michaele (Mike) Budd, former Mayor of Crossfield, has passed away at age 72
MikeBudd
Former Crossfield Mayor Mike Budd has passed away, and his funeral is set to be held in the town next Sunday.

A celebration of life will be held on May 29 for former Crossfield mayor James Michael (Mike) Budd, who passed away peacefully at the age of 72 on April 30. 

A British Navy veteran, Budd was born in Cardiff, Wales. Budd spent his early life travelling the world but chose to make his home in Crossfield after meeting his wife, Diane Budd and her two boys, Steven and Derek, in Calgary in 1979. According to his obituary, the pair were married for 39 years and completed their family with a son, Christopher. 

Though his career following his time in the navy was spent as a power engineer, Budd was a public works foreman before serving as a council member for the Town of Crossfield from 1998 until 2001, and he later served a three-year term as mayor starting in 2004.

Away from council chambers, Budd was also a Grand Master for the Crossfield Masonic Lodge. 

“He was very passionate about serving the community,” said Jo Tennant, who served multiple terms on the Crossfield council, including as Mayor of Crossfield while Budd was a council member. 

As a council member, Budd was “knowledgeable, engaged, and really cared about the community,” Tennant added. 

Tennant found Budd “very respectful,” recalling her time away from public office when a project she was involved in was completed. The project – the installation of the Crossfield splash pad at Banta Park – had its grand opening when Budd was serving as mayor. But remembering Tennant’s contributions to the initiative, Budd made sure to invite her to the event.

Stepping away from public office allowed Budd time to focus on his hobbies, like building models of ships, planes, and submarines. According to his obituary, Budd could also be found playing and colouring with his two granddaughters. 

“He’ll certainly be missed,” Tennant added. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Crossfield Community Hall on May 29, at 1 p.m. and a reception will follow afterwards. All friends and family are invited to join. 

Those wishing to view and/or share photos, condolences and stories of Budd can visit choicememorial.com. Arrangements can be sent to the Choice Memorial Cremation and Funeral Services.

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