One of Flin Flon’s foremost volunteers and education figures has died.
Andy Burbidge, a former trustee of the Flin Flon School Division board and a local business owner, died April 20 after a battle with cancer. He was 47 years old.
Burbidge was the long-time owner of Flin Flon Insurance, owning and operating the business for more than 16 years. Born and raised in Flin Flon, Burbidge graduated from Acadia University in Nova Scotia before moving back to the north.
In 2014, Burbidge was elected to the board of the Flin Flon School Division. During his time with the board, Burbidge held the position of vice-chairman and served on school division committees. Burbidge was involved with creating the school division’s long-term strategic plan, mental health initiatives and was part of the division’s purchase of part of the former St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church.
“He was a gentle and compassionate man and a very wise and thoughtful trustee,” said Flin Flon School Division superintendent Constance McLeese.
“His first goal was always advocating for kids. He really fought for the kids.”
Burbidge was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2006 and had a reoccurrence in 2011. He worked with the Canadian Cancer Society and with local cancer-related charities, including Relay for Life and Movember.
Burbidge stepped down from the school board in March.
“He was quite active and involved, a very quiet and wise councillor. He didn’t speak a whole lot, but when he did, it was very wise and very compassionate,” said McLeese.
Burbidge also volunteered with the Uptown Curling Club and the Flin Flon/Creighton and Area SPCA.
