Flags outside the village office in Port Clements were lowered to half-mast Wednesday afternoon (Aug. 20) after the sudden death of mayor Wally Cheer.Mr. Cheer, who was in his mid-60s, was well-known for his quiet and polite manner and the countless volunteer hours he contributed to his community. He had been extremely involved this year in several events organized to celebrate Port's 100th anniversary. He was also the president of the Port Clements Historical Society, and served on almost every committee of the village council.Queen Charlotte mayor Carol Kulesha, who worked with Mr. Cheer on the Misty Isles Economic Development Society and other all-islands endeavours, said she would remember Mr. Cheer for his vision, leadership and listening skills."When I think of Wally Cheer I think of his great love of his community. His determined desire to find ways to increase Port's economy. He had a vision and worked persistently and consistently towards it," Ms Kuleshsa said. "He was the man at the table who added his comments at the end of the discussion after listening to the different points of view. Port Clements was fortunate to have had his leadership. When I think of Wally, I remember a gentleman."Masset mayor Andrew Merilees said Mr. Cheer's expertise on the forest industry will be missed at the MIEDS table, where islands representatives are currently working on a community forest proposal."His expertise was invaluable," Mr. Merilees said. "He was soft-spoken but a very strong voice for his community. He worked very well with the other island communities, he was a team player."Mr. Cheer was first elected to council in 2005 and served two terms as a councillor. He was elected mayor in 2011.There will be no by-election to replace Mr. Cheer because municipal elections are already scheduled for November. Port council will continue with four members for the next three months, with Urs Thomas as deputy mayor.