FARGO (KFGO-AM) -- Fargo Mayor Dennis Walaker has died. He was 73.
Deputy Mayor Tim Mahoney confirmed to KFGO News that Walaker died at his so. Fargo home shortly before 7pm Tues. He had been battling kidney cancer for several months.
Walaker spent most of his career as public works operations director for the city and became experienced in the protecting the city against flooding. As mayor during the record-setting 2009 flood he stood up to federal officials who wanted to evacuate the city, which was saved with massive sandbagging. His employment with the city lasted 32 years.
Walaker was a native of Leonard, North Dakota. He was first elected Fargo mayor in 2006, when flood protection was his campaign theme. He was re-elected twice, most recently in June when he turned back a challenge from former City Commissioner Brad Wimmer. He leaves behind his wife, Mary, and two grown daughters. Funeral arrangements are pending.