Former Prince Edward Island MLA and cabinet minister Wes MacAleer has died at 82 years old. The Progressive Conservative politician had served as MLA for Charlottetown-Spring Park, minister of economic development and tourism, minister of community services and attorney general. Many, including P.E.I. Premier Rob Lantz, have taken to social media to share condolences for MacAleer’s friends and family. “His passing is a real loss for our Island,” Lantz states. He says MacAleer brought energy, curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit to politics, “and a genuine belief in the potential of our province.” After leaving elected office, he gave his time to UPEI innovation and entrepreneurship, Rotary, and other Island causes. Many have taken to sharing memories online, highlighting MacAleer’s extensive career and prolific humanitarian work. “What I will remember most, however, is Wes the person,” writes Lantz. “I had the pleasure and privilege of working side by side with him in business. His optimism was infectious. He had a warmth and enthusiasm that made people feel welcome, and an ability to make a conversation feel like you were the only person in the room.” Non-profit organization JA PEI helps build skills for youth in the community, focusing on financial health and preparing them for employment. The group shared condolences online after MacAleer’s passing. It credits much of its success over the last 40 years to the role he played in expanding youth-focused programming on the Island. “He was a mentor, a supporter and a true champion for youth entrepreneurship across the Island,” JA PEI says. MacAleer’s commitment to community was recognized with the Canadian Red Cross PEI Humanitarian of the Year award in 2014 and honorary Doctor of Laws from UPEI in 2018. “He has worked tirelessly for those who are in need in the community, province, and country,” the university wrote in a news release at the time. Before politics, he worked in publishing at The Guardian during the 1990s. Barb McKenna, a now-retired journalist, says he was her boss at the time. “He was a very kind man, a supportive leader and a man who wanted you to believe in yourself because he sure did!” she shares online. “The kind of guy who sincerely expected everyone to succeed and supported all.” “He cared deeply about this Island and was never shy about sharing his ideas about how we could make it better,” writes Lantz. “He will be greatly missed.” For more P.E.I. news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
