Nenshi declares April 5 as Ralph Klein Day

In a ceremony on the steps of Municipal Plaza, Mayor Naheed Nenshi declared April 5 as 'Ralph Klein Day'.

On the steps of the Municipal Plaza, just ahead of a memorial for Ralph Klein, Mayor Naheed Nenshi officially dedicated April 5 in the former Premier's honour.

He made the proclamation and presented the Calgary flag to Colleen Klein, Ralph’s widow during a brief ceremony.

The ceremony was held just prior to the formal Celebration of Life event, attended by thousands of members of the public including many invited VIP guests.

“The outpouring of affection we see today is tangible evidence of the legacy that Ralph Klein leaves behind him, as Mayor, as Premier and as a Calgarian,” said Mayor Nenshi in a release.

“On behalf of City Council and the citizens of Calgary, it is my privilege to declare today ‘Ralph Klein Day’.”

Ralph Klein, a former reporter at CTV Calgary, began his political career at Calgary City Hall, serving as mayor from 1980-1989.

As mayor, he hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics, created the Calgary Economic Development Authority, and led the development of the city’s LRT system.

He passed away on March 29, 2013, at the age of 70.

For a gallery featuring photos from Ralph’s tenure as mayor, click here.