The City extends its condolences to the de San Miguel family on the passing of Don, a family man, business owner and stalwart of the Cockburn community, on 15 June.
Don Miguel OAM, JP was a Cockburn councillor for many years and remains the City's longest serving mayor, with 14 years at the helm. He is only one of five members of the community given the honour of Freeman of the City.
He was known for his robust discussion at Council meetings and his strong advocacy for Cockburn right up to his passing.
His direct and forthright advice to mayors, councillors and CEOs over his long and distinguished contribution from a local and statewide perspective, was always relevant and focused.
The City has agreed to host a Wake for the late Mr Miguel following his funeral on Tuesday, 26 June. As is tradition, the flags at the City of Cockburn will be flown at half-mast on the day of his funeral.
Mr Miguel served the Cockburn community as a Councillor and Mayor from 1965 until 1993. His tenure began when Cockburn was still part of Fremantle Roads Board, through its evolution to a shire, a town, and later to a city.
He became inaugural Mayor of the City of Cockburn when the former town, of which he was also Mayor, attained city status on October 26, 1979.
As Mayor for 14 years, he successfully contested an annual vote by his fellow Elected Members, and retained this position until retiring from Council in 1993. He previously spent seven years as Deputy Mayor.
On 15 May, 1984, Mr Miguel was named Honorary Freeman of the City in recognition of his dedicated service to the Cockburn district.
Other community members given the honour of Freeman of the City are Joseph Cooper JP, Alan Thomas JP, Wally Hagan OAM, JP and Ray Lees JP.
Rest in Peace Don.
Mayor Logan Howlett
Caption: Freeman of the City, the late Don Miguel OAM JP - second from left, pictured with CEO Stephen Cain, Cockburn's inaugural Shire Clerk Tony Armarego and Mayor Logan Howlett during the City's 35th anniversary celebrations.