Flags flying at half-mast for Wilmot’s first mayor
Posted Mar 14, 2024 06:25:58 PM.
Last Updated Mar 14, 2024 06:26:02 PM.
Flags are flying at half-mast in Wilmot in memory of the township’s first mayor.
Ernst “Ernie” Ritz died Mar. 13 at the age of 98.
He was the last mayor of New Hamburg and the first mayor of Wilmot when regional government was formed in 1973.
“Being Wilmot’s first mayor was one of many accomplishments of Ernie Ritz during his lifetime of public service,” said current Wilmot Mayor Natasha Salonen in a release. “A community builder and mentor to many, he will be remembered not only for his life’s work but for the relationships he formed along the way.”
Ritz received several accolades for his contributions over the years, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ontario Heritage Society.
A visitation will be taking place this Saturday in New Hamburg. A memorial service is being planned for Apr. 5.
More details can be found by clicking here.
