Friends, relatives, politicians mourn passing of Nick Ternette at age 68

Friends and family are mourning the loss of longtime social activist Nick Ternette, 68.

For more than 40 years, Ternette was an outspoken activist at city hall, speaking out about poverty and social justice issues.

“He’s one of those people that you measure in a generation that is really hard to replace,” said David Northcott from Winnipeg Harvest.

“Nick will not be forgotten. He will always be remembered for his persistency and coming forward to fight for the average person,” said Coun. Harvey Smith (Daniel McIntyre).

Ternette died early Monday morning.

He was born in Germany and came to Winnipeg at age 10.

His wife Emily said Ternette became a social crusader because he couldn’t stand silent while others suffered.

"Realizing this is not what democracy is all about - there's a lot of poor people around here, people who don't have their homes, people who are actually starving," said Emily.

He ran unsuccessfully for mayor several times.

“If you don't take care of you're own back yard, the rest of it (isn’t) going to matter so that's why he got into civic politics,” said Emily.

He fought against a crackdown on panhandlers, and advocated for light rail transit. He called for a ban on pesticides, believe they were linked to cancer.

"He was absolutely convinced and believed that research backed him up - that was one of the reasons why,” said friend Donald Benham.

After losing his legs to an infection, Ternette announced in 2009 he was retiring from his appearances at city hall, but he wasn’t able to keep that promise.

“You couldn’t keep him away. He was just that passionate about things,” said Coun. Jeff Browaty, acting deputy mayor.

While Ternette admitted he didn’t win many of his fights, he told CTV News in 2009 the battles were worth it.

“I’ve never won any battles here, not at council, but I’ve had some influence,” he said.

Multiple politicians and officials issued statements on Monday about his passing.

“Nick's selfless commitment to social justice through political advocacy has left an indelible mark on our city and our province,” said Premier Greg Selinger.

“I am saddened to hear of Nick Ternette’s passing. He was well known to everyone here at City Hall and his dedication to activism and advocacy will not soon be forgotten. My sincere regrets go out to his wife, Emily,” said Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz.

In 2009, Ternette and his wife moved into a residence at the University of Winnipeg’s McFeetor’s Hall.

Lloyd Axworthy, University of Winnipeg president, also issued a statement on Monday about Ternette.

“A political activist, social advocate, journalist and volunteer, Nick Ternette dedicated much of his life to the fight for fair treatment and justice for all,” said Axworthy.

Emily said Ternette prompted other ways of envisioning the city.

“(He) made the citizens of Winnipeg think about the alternative, alternative ways for this city to be,” said Emily.

Ternette's autobiography is slated to go to print.