Town of Vegreville Mourns the Passing of Former Mayor Dr. Richard N. Coleman

Vegreville, AB (September 3, 2025) – The Town of Vegreville is deeply saddened to announce the passing of former Mayor Dr. Richard N. Coleman, a dedicated public servant and respected community leader, on August 20, 2025. 

Dr. Coleman served as a Town Councillor from 1992 to 2004 before being elected as Mayor, a role he held from 2004 to 2013. During his years of leadership, he helped guide Vegreville through periods of growth and change, always committed to the well-being of residents and the future of the community. Dr. Coleman’s dedication, vision, and commitment to Vegreville have left a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. 

In 2012, Dr. Coleman was recognized nationally for his dedication to public service when he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, a distinction honoring significant contributions and achievements in Canada. 

“Dr. Coleman’s impact on Vegreville will not be forgotten. His years of service as both Councillor and Mayor shaped the foundation of our community in countless ways. We honour his legacy, his leadership, and his unwavering dedication to the people of Vegreville. On behalf of Town Council and our community, we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.” 

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Tim MacPhee, Mayor, Town of Vegreville 

 

The Town of Vegreville extends heartfelt sympathies to Dr. Coleman’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. 

Please note: In honour of Former Mayor Richard Coleman's passing, the Town of Vegreville flags will be at half-mast on September 3, 2025.

To learn more about the current Town of Vegreville Council, click HERE.  

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About Vegreville: Home to the World’s Largest Freestanding Pysanka (Ukrainian Easter Egg), the Town of Vegreville is located about 100 kilometers east of Edmonton and conveniently adjacent to Highways 16 and 36, two of Western Canada’s major transportation corridors. A friendly and thriving community, Vegreville has positioned itself to become a future hub of Agriculture and Industrial Business thanks to its proximity to major cross-continental highways, access to TELUS PureFibre internet and the now under construction Prosperity Industrial Park.  

 

MEDIA INQUIRIES  

Sabrina Curtis 
Community Engagement Coordinator, Town of Vegreville 
scurtis@vegreville.com