The flags at Ottawa City Hall (110 Laurier Avenue West) will be lowered to half-mast from sunrise to sunset on Monday, August 26 in honour of the late Marlene Catterall, who passed away on Monday, August 12.
Marlene Catterall was an accomplished teacher, politician and community activist. She began her career in politics as an alderman and regional Councillor for the former City of Ottawa, representing Britannia Ward from 1976 to 1985. Following her career in local politics, she was elected to the House of Commons, representing the riding of Ottawa West from 1988 to 1997. In 1997, she was elected as the member of Parliament for the newly formed Ottawa West-Nepean, holding the position until her retirement from federal politics in 2006.
Marlene championed many causes during her career, but foremost was the advancement and empowerment of women. In 2001, she was appointed as the Chief Government Whip with the federal government, the first woman in Canada to serve in that role. In 2023, she was awarded the Governor General's award for her work.
A park in Ottawa, Marlene Catterall Park, bears her name in recognition of her service to the community.
Marlene Catterall’s funeral service is scheduled for Monday, August 26.
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