Former Orangeville mayor dead at 92

February 26, 2014 · 0 Comments

Orangeville lost arguably one of the community’s strongest supporters with former mayor Vic Large’s recent death, just a week after returning to Orangeville to accept a Sesquicentennial Commemorative Award.
One of Orangeville’s longest-serving council members, Mr. Large, 92, died suddenly at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto.
A resident of British Columbia in recent years, he was first elected to office in 1955 when he won a council seat. He also served as councillor the following year, and again from 1985 through 1988. He was elected deputy reeve in 1957, 1958, 1958-1960, 1966-1968, 1988-1991, and he served as reeve from 1968-1970.
His tenure as mayor from 1970 to 1982 was marked by significant decisions in Orangeville’s growth. He was known for his strength of character and standing up for principles. He was also known as a character.
Outside municipal government, Mr. Large was a manager of the LCBO when it was located in the downtown core.
The Town of Orangeville honoured Mr. Large in 2009 with a street named after him. Victor Large Way is a residential street in the Amelia Street and Hansen Boulevard area. Mr. Large, who spent the past several years living in British Columbia, returned to Orangeville for that street dedication ceremony.
“Vic served many years on Orangeville council,” Mayor Rob Adams said. “He put his heart and soul into Orangeville and helped shape the community as it went through a period of tremendous change.”
Adams said Mr. Large’s death is a sad time for the town, but those at town hall can look back fondly at his many contributions to the community.
“Vic was a friend and mentor,” said Councillor Mary Rose, also a former mayor. “His vision and leadership saw him play a significant role in the decision to renovate the Town Hall and Opera House, as well as many other projects in town over the years.”
Mr. Large is survived by his wife, Alvina Greene, and predeceased by former wife Jean Ward. He is also survived by his four children: Jim of Orangeville, Bob of Alton, Linda of Orangeville and Kathy of British Columbia: He also had five grandchildren.
Memorial donations in memory of Mr. Large can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or Headwaters Health Care Foundation.