Young's mayor John Walker officially confirmed this morning that the long-time shire councillor had passed away at the weekend.

Mr McGregor had been unwell and was hospitalized for several weeks prior to his passing at Mercy Care Centre in the early hours of Saturday morning. 

He was 81 at the time of his death.

“It was with sadness to have heard of the passing of Cr John B McGregor,” Cr Walker said. 

The mayor said Mr McGregor was well known and respected throughout the Young community for not only his commitment to local government but to many other local community groups. 

He was still very active on Young Shire Council after being first elected for the term in 1995, and serving as deputy mayor from 2001 to 2007.

John had previously served with Burrangong Council in 1967-1968. 

John represented Young Council on the Southern Slopes Noxious Weeds County Council  from 1995 to 2005, and at the time of his death was still active as council’s representative on Golden Fields Water County Council, where he had served since 1997. 

"His same diligence and commitment was evident in these roles," Cr Walker said.

Cr Walker described Mr McGregor as a devoted and passionate advocate for the residents of the Young Shire and said he would be missed enormously by his colleagues on the council, by the employees of Young Shire and the many townspeople he came in contact with.

“John will be remembered for his dedication to the community he loved, and his enthusiasm and passion in debate," he said.

A previous career in real estate gave Mr McGregor knowledge of the district and the people and this, said the mayor, allowed him to contribute constructively to the shire’s development.

"His valued input to the council allowed for hearty discussion, which in many ways, was a reflection of John’s passion for the betterment of Young and its people," Cr Walker said.

"It was through this business at council that we grew to realize the network of friends and connections that John had with councils, government departments and with officials throughout the state.

"He treated all his associates with the same manner of interest and warmth that invited us to share his enthusiasm for a united advocacy approach for the community he loved.

"On behalf of councillors, staff and our community our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Elizabeth, and children Robert, Rose-Anne, Regina and Jonathon and their extended family as we share in their grief," Cr Walker said.

The staff of The Young Witness pass on their condolences to John's family - he was always a very welcome guest to our office - always made it his business to know the staff he was talking to, took the time to chat and was always a positive and upbeat presence.

Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.

A requiem mass to celebrate John's life will be held Wednesday, August 12 at St Mary's Catholic Church, Young commencing at 11am.