Former colleagues of the late Andy Wells have been reflecting on memories of the sometimes controversial political figure, as they share condolences with family and friends.
Wells was sometimes known for his combative style. The regular weekly council meetings broadcast on Cable 9 in the early 1990s became must-viewing for many because of Wells’ exchanges with his fellow councillors which became the stuff of legend.
One of the people with whom he frequently jousted was former Mayor Shannie Duff. Here’s part of an exchange between the two from 1991:
Duff expressed sadness at what she calls the “end of an era” in Wells’ passing. Despite their battles on council, the two started out as good friends, having been first elected at the same time.
Wells would invite her to special dinners and he also played Santa Claus at her family Christmas party. She even has a picture of her son sitting on Well’s lap in his Santa suit.
Shannie acknowledges that while they both cared very deeply about the city, their approaches weren’t always the same. She says she had an opportunity to mend some fences earlier this year.
She bumped into Wells in the spring at Tim Horton’s in the mall and says they had a very nice chat that she felt very better about “because I felt there was a bridge broken there between us.”
