Lockeport has lost a legend, according to the town’s former mayor.
Alonzo ‘Lonnie’ Townsend passed away Monday, his birthday, at age 74.
Townsend was known as a devoted Christian man who spent most of his working career in media.
He was a photographer and editor of the Coast Guard newspaper before spending 20 years as a news reporter with CKBW.
Darian Huskilson says ‘Lonnie’ was a friend.
“He taught me never to apologize for being passionate about anything I believed in. I, as well as many others, are going to miss our ‘pard’ as he referred to everyone.”
Townsend also spent more than 15 years on council in Lockeport as a councillor and deputy mayor until his death.
He also enjoyed singing and playing guitar, solo, and in various gospel groups including Shepherd’s Joy.
Huskilson says Townsend was honourable and a rare breed.
“There was never a time on council and even personally that if Lonnie told me something he didn’t stay true to his word.”
Huskilson says ‘Lonnie’ was a community man who enjoyed meeting new people and resolving issues.
Visitation will be Sunday from 6-8 p.m and a memorial service on Monday at 2 p.m; both at the Lockeport Pentecostal Church.
The full obituary for Lonnie Townsend can be found here.
