Mayor Cathy Heron has proclaimed today, March 12, 2024, as Kyle Dubé Day in St. Albert, to memorialize Dubé's vast community involvement and impact after passing away from a heart attack earlier this month.
Dubé served as the executive director of Edmonton-based non-profit YOUCAN Youth Services for more than 20 years, and was a St. Albert resident known well in the community, especially after the death of his 16-year-old son Luke in 2021.
After Luke's death, Dubé and his family started the Be a Light for Luke campaign to raise awareness about youth suicide and build community connections.
In a video posted to YouTube, Mayor Cathy Heron said Dubé was a community leader, friend, and passionate advocate.
“I encourage all residents to look for ways to build up our community in remembrance of Kyle, and continue his legacy,” she said. “Kyle worked tirelessly as the executive director of [YOUCAN Youth Services], to help young people battle houselessness, addictions, gang involvement, and mental health issues.”
“For more than 30 years Kyle dedicated himself to being a community builder by supporting at-risk youth.”
Heron told the Gazette on Tuesday that she first met Dubé prior to being elected to city council in 2010, and in the years since she relied on him as a resource when it came to community issues like youth mental health and houselessness, as well as the Humboldt Broncos bus crash in 2018, which claimed the lives of four local hockey players.
“He just was everywhere, he was always involved with the community,” she said. “I feel like we need more people like him.”
“At the end of my proclamation I encourage people to honour his spirit by giving back to your community.”
In a social media post, the YOUCAN organization wrote that Dubé touched many lives both in Edmonton and St. Albert.
In addition to his work in the community, Kyle was also a father & husband. He was the glue that held things together for his family & his community - the role model, the financial contributor, the cheerleader, the emotional stabilizer, the connector, & the beacon of laughter. 2
— YOUCAN Youth Services (@YOUCANEdmonton) March 12, 2024
“Kyle dedicated his life to those in need and believed in the power of laughter to heal, connect, and uplift,” the post reads. “Our hearts and thoughts go out to the Dubé family as they learn to navigate this difficult time without their anchor.”
“His absence leaves a void that undoubtedly cannot be filled.”
Edmonton's Mayor, Amarjeet Sohi, also proclaimed March 12, 2024, as Kyle Dubé Day in Edmonton.
Today I want to recognize the passing of an invaluable member of the Edmonton community: Kyle Dubé.
— Amarjeet Sohi (@AmarjeetSohiYEG) March 12, 2024
Kyle served as the Executive Director for @YOUCANEdmonton, a role that helped him change the lives of many youth across the city.
When we lose a community leader like Kyle, the… pic.twitter.com/lhGRZar8Uj
A memorial service for Dubé took place today at an Edmonton church.
