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‘Flyin’ Phil’ life celebration planned for Parksville Community Park

Statue also considered, contingent on community fundraising
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‘Flyin’ Phil’ St. Luke leads the Parkinson’s Superwalk along the Parksville waterfront in September 2018. (PQB News file photo)

The City of Parksville will host a celebration of life for ‘Flyin’ Phil’ St. Luke this spring or summer.

The city will consult with St. Luke’s family and, as plans are confirmed, will announce details for the event, to be held at the Parksville Outdoor Theatre in Parksville Community Park, according to a news release by the city.

The resolution to host the celebration came during a closed council meeting on Feb. 6. Council also voted to support in principle a statue of St. Luke, who died on Jan. 13.

That support is contingent on funding being raised by the community, with a final decision on location, design and role of the city being made after proposals from community groups are considered.

“Parksville Council wishes to recognize Phil St. Luke as an ambassador for the City of Parksville and support the community’s wishes for a celebration,” the release read. “There has been an outpouring of condolences as citizens share many personal stories and memories of Phil; his impact on the community was immeasurable and he will be missed.”

READ MORE: Parksville icon ‘Flyin’ Phil’ St. Luke dies

City staff will investigate cost sharing, entertainment and community partnership opportunities for the celebration of life and report back to council with options, the release said.

Staff will also provide opportunity for public engagement on additional ideas for recognition of St. Luke on Let’s Talk Parksville. There will be an announcement once that has been setup, the release added.

In the meantime, residents can contribute time or share their thoughts by emailing communications@parksville.ca with their name, contact information and how they would like to be involved.

— NEWS Staff, submitted

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