Winnipeg city councillor Jason Schreyer has died, the City of Winnipeg announced in a statement Wednesday morning.
Schreyer had served as the councillor for Elmwood–East Kildonan since 2014, winning three elections. He was known as a passionate advocate for his community the City said in the statement.
“He was a strong and independent voice in the Council chamber, always focused on fighting for the residents of his community and keeping life affordable for Winnipeggers,” the statement reads.
“Beyond politics, Jason brought joy and creativity to those around him. He had a love of music, often being the first to grab the mic at karaoke, delighting colleagues with performances at national conferences, sharing his talents in multiple languages at Folklorama, and even offering a song as a prayer at the start of council meetings.”
Schreyer was the son of former Manitoba premier and former governor general Ed Schreyer. Before entering municipal politics, he worked with NDP MLAs Steve Ashton and Jim Maloway, and remained deeply connected to the provincial NDP throughout his career.
Mayor Scott Gillingham said council was shocked to learn of Schreyer’s death.
“Jason comes from a family dedicated to public service – a legacy his parents set, and Jason carried on,” said Gillingham.
Flags at Winnipeg City Hall have been lowered to half-mast in Schreyer’s honour.