Former B.C. Premier and long-time Kelowna resident Bill Bennett died on Thursday at the age of 83.
Formally known as William Richards Bennett, son of W.A.C. Bennett, he served as Premier of British Columbia from 1975 until 1986.
Born in Kelowna in 1932, Bennett was an avid business man, politician and community member.
Bennett first dabbled in provincial politics when he was elected as a South Okanagan MLA in September 1973. That was followed by his successful election into office as Premier in 1975.
“As the son of one of British Columbia’s most iconic leaders, Bill Bennett not only emerged from his father’s shadow – he built his own legacy. He will be remembered as one of our greatest and most influential leaders," said Premier Christy Clark.
The former Premier is credited with pulling the province out of a bleak recession, thanks in part to a number of massive projects, including the construction of the Coquihalla Highway and the introduction of Vancouver’s Expo 86.
The former leader of the Social Credit Party passed away after a long battle with Alzheimer’s, leaving behind his wife Audrey Bennett and four children.
