The City of Calgary issued a statement on the death of former Premier of Alberta and former Mayor of Calgary Ralph Klein:
 
“We are deeply saddened to learn of Ralph Klein’s passing,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi.  “Our thoughts and condolences are with his wife, Colleen, and their family in this difficult time.”
 
“The many highlights of his career and political legacy will undoubtedly be shared over the coming days, and many Albertans will mourn him as a beloved former Premier.  But Calgary was always the city he called home.  A true born-and-raised Calgarian, he served as Mayor from 1980-1989 and, to me, he will always be Mayor Klein.
 
“As mayor, he had a tremendous impact on Calgary as a city government, helping shape both our policy and our culture. Ralph Klein taught us, as Calgarians, that we don’t need to put on airs. We don’t need to pretend we’re something we are not in order to be a truly great city in this world.
 
“His legacy surrounds us, and he will be sorely missed.”
 
The City will organize a public Celebration of Life at the family’s request and says more details will be shared as arrangements are made.