Tributes are pouring in for former Inuvik firefighter and town councillor Vince Sharpe.
Sharpe passed away Feb. 15, his family announced. He was 76 years old.
Since then, several organizations and individuals have publicly commemorated the life-saving public figure.
“Vince was one of the first people I met when I moved to Inuvik 30 years ago and we remained close friends since that time,” said Inuvik Boot Lake MLA Denny Rodgers during his member statement in the legislative assembly on Feb. 21. “Vince has always been an incredible advocate for our community that he so dearly loved. He served several years as a municipal councillor. He was a staunch supporter of the Inuvik Fire Department, any local protective services, and he supported and fundraised for community events such as the Muskrat Jamboree, the Firefighters Gala, the Children’s First Centre, and many, many more.
“Vince lived life on his own terms always and was a true pillar for Inuvik and a legend for Inuvik, and he’ll certainly be sorely missed,” Rodgers added.
Sharpe was recognized in 2007 with the Governor General’s medal for bravery for rescuing two people from a burning building in Inuvik. A 1977 Inuvik Drum article details a rescue of a six-month baby boy by Sharpe and two other firefighters.
Born Feb. 10, 1948, Sharpe moved to Inuvik in 1968, working as a firefighter for Transport Canada at the airport. Later, his construction and contracting business Just Call Vince became a staple in the community, employing numerous residents over the years.
Sharpe was a patron of Northern arts, known for his wood carving collection, including one piece he donated to the Inuvik Regional Hospital, which is on display in the lobby.
He married twice, first to Mabel Keevik and having three children, then to Lena Allen and having two more children.
Inuvik Fire Department honoured Sharpe with a procession escorting his body from Mike Zubko Airport to the town. A funeral service was held Feb. 22 at the Midnight Sun Complex.
“The Town of Inuvik, council and staff wish to express their condolences to Vince’s wife and family,” wrote Mayor Clarence Wood in a statement. “We remember the phrase ‘Gone but never forgotten.’
“Rest in Peace Vince, may we all meet again.”