A former Chatham-Kent councillor is being remembered for his kind nature and service to community.
Frank Vercouteren passed away at the age of 86 on Friday, October 11.
Vercouteren entered the world of politics at the age of 25, elected to Ridgetown Council. He served 15 years on Blenheim Council, was elected Kent County Reeve in 1988, and served on the amalgamated Chatham-Kent Council representing East Kent from 1999 until 2018.
Vercouteren’s work in the community also included serving as chair of the 1979 International Kent County Plowing Match and Farm Machinery Show, Commissioner of the Chatham-Kent PUC, President of the Blenheim District Chamber of Commerce, and member of the Blenheim Royal Canadian Legion Branch 185, among other organizations.
Outside of politics, Vercouteren worked as a hairdresser alongside his wife Theresa before turning to real estate. He was also a member of the Canadian Pheasant Association, operating a breeding hatchery, raising ornamental pheasants, peacocks and quail on his hobby farm.
Visitation will be held at Blenheim Community Funeral Home on Wednesday, October 15 from 2-4pm and 6-8pm. A celebration of life and funeral mass will be held at St Mary’s Roman Catholic Church on Thursday, October 17 at 10am.
