Former local Progressive Conservative MPP and proud Prince Edward County resident, Gary Fox has passed away.

Fox's daughter Lori Slik said her father passed away Thursday night surrounded by his grandchildren.

"Gary Fox was a strong voice for the people of Prince Edward County and agriculture in Ontario," Bay of Quinte MPP Todd Smith said in a statement.  

Fox served as a councillor on the Sophiasburgh township council and the Prince Edward County Regional Council, before being elected Reeve of Sophiasburgh.  During his time in office Fox always stressed the importance of maintaining contact with his constituents and was passionate about agriculture.

He was elected to the Ontario legislature in 1995 in the riding of Prince Edward—Lennox-South Hastings. Fox served as a backbench supporter of Mike Harris's government for the next four years, and was chair of the PC Rural Caucus Advisory Committee.  Following Fox's political career, he remained very active in politics as a Conservative party faithful. Most recently, during this year's federal leadership campaign Fox attended one of Jean Charest's whistle-stops in Belleville.  Fox was eager to talk politics and reminisced about working on Charest's successful federal campaign in the '90s.  

"He loved his wife of 57 years, Lynn, their family, their farm, and their community," Smith expressed.  "I will miss his candour, enthusiasm, and dedication to public service.  My condolences to the Fox family and Gary’s many friends on his passing.  My team is devastated by this news.  Gary’s granddaughter Olivia worked at my Bay of Quinte constituency office and is now working at the Ministry of Energy."

Flags at all of the municipal buildings have been lowered in Prince Edward County in honour of Fox.