Former Agriculture Minister and Alberta MLA, Leroy Fjordbotten, passed away June 8th at the age of 78.

Serving his position as the Ag Minister from 1983 to 1986, he served with Premiers Peter Lougheed, Don Getty, and Ralph Klein.

He was also the Tourism Minister from 1986 to 1987, and Forestry, Lands and Wildlife Minister from 1987 to 1992.

George Groeneveld, who was the Ag Minister following Fjordbotten, says he was an agriculture man through and through.

"When I was Ag Minister, it didn't matter where I went in Southern Alberta, he would be there the first year or so to support me. I guess he felt sorry for a rookie Ag Minister."

Fjordbotten farmed Northeast of Granum, and was also a member of the Flying Farmers of Alberta.

A celebration of his life will be held on June 25 at the Claresholm Community Center. Flags will also be flown at half-staff that day to honor his memory.