The City of Calgary has moved forward with the removal of temporary memorials for an 11-year-old boy who went missing this summer and was later found dead.
The City said the tributes that were created for Parker Wells, whose disappearance captivated the Calgarians for two weeks, demonstrated the care, compassion and sense of community in the city.
“We understand the desire to remember Parker and the importance these tributes hold for many people,” said Doug Morgan, Chief Operating Officer – City Services, in a news release.
“We recognize that everyone grieves differently and that these memorials were created with heartfelt intentions.”
Hundreds of people paid tribute to Parker during a vigil held shortly after his body was found in a stormwater drainage pipe this summer. Parker went missing from his Thorncliffe dayhome on July 16.
According to the City of Calgary, temporary memorial items like flowers, cards or stuffed animals left in parks are maintained for a short period of time before being removed, and offered to the family.
“Because these items are exposed to weather and environmental conditions, they can deteriorate over time and create maintenance and safety concerns,” the City of Calgary said.
The tributes that have been placed at various locations in Calgary have since been removed, the City of Calgary said. Other tributes, such as those covered under graffiti bylaws, will be removed according to established processes, it said. They contacted those directly affected, and no concerns about the removal were expressed.
“Their removal does not diminish the significance of his memory or the community’s desire to honour him,” it said.
“As stewards of public spaces across Calgary, The City has a responsibility to approach these situations consistently and fairly, while ensuring that everyone affected by this tragedy is treated with compassion, dignity and respect.”
Permanent memorials are a more appropriate way to memorialize individuals, the city said, and interested individuals can contact city administration about that process.
People may still be experiencing grief related to the tragedy this summer.
The Calgary Distress Centre provides 24-hour support by phone or text at 403-266-4357.
