Iqaluit mourns loss of former mayor Jimmy Kilabuk

Flags are flying at half-mast at city hall in Iqaluit as people grieve the passing of Jimmy Kilabuk.

The long-time city councillor and former mayor died on the weekend. He had been ill for several months and was unable to attend some council meetings since he was re-elected last fall.

Kilabuk,70,tendered his resignation through a phone call to City Council two weeks ago. He told council members at that time that he didn't have long to live.

Kilabuk served as mayor of Iqaluit from 1997 to 2000.

The current Mayor John Graham said the city's thoughts and prayers are with Kilabuk's family. Grahamsaid Kilabuk's 35 years of service to the community are a great example of what a person can do to enhance the community. He said Iqaluit needs more people like Kilabuk.

Heand many othersknew Kilabuk as "Flash"

"Flash earned that nickname by winning numerous times, and in record time, the long distance Ski-Doo race which were held during Toonik Tyme in the early 70s to lake harbour Kimmirut."

Kilabuk also served as a volunteer firefighter.

Simon Nattaq served with Kilabuk for many years on the Iqaluit City Council.

"I remember him around 1960, he was the Fire Chief for Iqaluit and I was the chief for Hall Beach.We became friends at that time and stayed friends until he died. Thanks for everything Jimmy," Nattaqtold CBC News inInuktitut.

A funeral service will be held at St. Jude's Cathedral in Iqaluit at 1:15 p.m. ETon Tuesday.