by
Mayor Richard Notte
Sterling Heights Mayor Richard J. Notte, who had been battling pancreatic cancer, died at home Tuesday morning, the city announced in a story on its website. He was 76.
The city described the fedora-wearing mayor as a "a beloved fixture in Sterling Heights municipal government for over thirty years" and noted that he was serving his 11th two-year term as mayor. He had previously served on the city council.
The story on the website states:
Described as “a working man’s mayor,” Notte was beloved by the residents of Sterling Heights. While donning his trademark fedora, Mayor Notte was immediately identifiable throughout the community when representing his constituents at thousands of ribbon cuttings, charity balls, dinners, luncheons, school events, and scouting ceremonies. Notte believed his role was to serve all Sterling Heights residents and he never took for granted the trust and faith that voters placed in him when they cast their ballots.
“I, myself, don’t like to be called a politician,” Notte remarked in a 2013 induction speech to the Macomb Hall of Fame, “I’d rather be called a representative, representing the people, because it’s what I do.”
Notte took great pride in the growth of Sterling Heights during his tenure. Notte repeatedly attributed the city’s success to teamwork. “Sterling Heights is a good place to work, live and play and I'm proud of being part of that effort."
Funeral Arrangements are pending at this time.
