Former city councillor and well-known Kamloopsian Dieter Dudy died this week.

Dudy was known in local politics first for his run against Peter Milobar for mayor in 2011. He lost the race and later served as city councillor from 2014 to 2022 before losing a run for mayor again.

The longtime farmer owned Thistle Farm with his late-wife Deb Kellogg for decades and would be found frequently at his booth at the Kamloops farmers’ market.

Condolence messages from former colleagues and politicians have poured onto social media on Sept. 8.

I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Dieter Dudy, a good friend and a man who gave so much to this community. Many will remember Dieter as the founder of Thistle Farms, where his commitment to organic farming reflected the same care and integrity he brought to everything he did.… pic.twitter.com/ONDrv5LJaI
— Peter Milobar (@PeterMilobar) September 8, 2026

Dudy most recently ran against Mayor Reid Hamer-Jackson in 2022 and landed in second place. He quashed rumours of another attempt earlier this year and, this summer, Thistle Farm was listed for sale.

Dudy was 71 years old.

I can't believe this news. My dear friend and long time colleague Dieter Dudy has passed. Dieter and I served together on Kamloops council for 8 years

Dieter loved his friends and family deeply. He was a fundamentally decent man. Kamloops has lost a great man and leader. pic.twitter.com/jLX77phPVP
— Arjun Singh (@arjunsingh) September 8, 2026