Former Cape mayor, Ivan Irvin, dies

Former Cape Girardeau Mayor Ivan Irvin has died, according to a news release from the City of Cape Girardeau.

Irvin was mayor from Jan. 8, 1969, to April 2, 1970. Below is the text of the news release:

Reacting to the news of the passing of former Cape Girardeau Mayor Ivan Irvin today, Mayor Knudtson said, "Former Mayor Irvin was a great public servant for all of Cape Girardeau. Ivan Irvin has been a real friend to me since I arrived in Cape. Ivan possessed tremendous people skills and had a great ability to assess a situation and make a good, solid and informed decision.  Even though he took great pride in his accomplishments, his most revered roll was that of grandfather.  On behalf of the entire City of Cape Girardeau our thoughts and prayers are extended to his family. "

Ivan Irvin served as Mayor from January 8, 1969 to April 15, 1970.  He served on the City Council from April 2, 1965 to April 6, 1971.  During his term on City Council, Irvin served with J. Ronald Fischer, Robert Pierce, Hugh Logan, Glenn Bishop, Howard Tooke, Ken Lipps, Stephen Strom and John Kollker. 

During his term as Mayor Irvin saw several significant events take place in Cape Girardeau.  Some of these include the opening of the Procter & Gamble plant in the Cape Girardeau area, an ordinance approving bowling to take place on Sunday’s, and a contract approved for private trash hauling for the City. 

Additionally during his term the City Council voted to terminate stock car racing in Arena Park, the Cape Girardeau Housing Authority was authorized to administer a Low Rent Housing Program, installation of first 911 emergency phone system in the City was completed, and construction began on I-55 overpass at Highway 61.

Ivan Irvin also served on the Board of Adjustment for the City of Cape Girardeau as a full member from 1990 to 2007, and as an alternate member from 2007 to the present time.