A SINGLE white rose was laid where Launceston City Council Deputy Mayor Jeremy Ball would have sat yesterday.
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Aldermen, council staff and a packed gallery stood for a minute's silence to remember Alderman Ball before some aldermen chose to say a few words.
Alderman Ball was killed in a crash on the Bass Highway last week.
His funeral will be held today.
Mayor Albert van Zetten began tributes by saying the past week had been extremely difficult for himself and for the council.
He described Alderman Ball as a rare individual, someone of extreme intelligence, a loyal deputy and a great orator.
"Jeremy fought passionately for the causes he believed in but one thing about Jeremy was that he did it with great humor and respect," Alderman van Zetten said.
General manager Robert Dobrzynski paid respects to the family on behalf of council and said staff would greatly miss his passion, intellect and tenacity.
Alderman Danny Gibson said: "Jeremy was many things, made up of many elements."
"He was passionate and committed, driven by new ideas that could be fast, furious and thrilling.
"He was an injection of raw energy and at times he was just plain fun."
Alderman Rosemary Armitage described Alderman Ball as an "all-round good guy" and said there were many things that he did, people that he helped, that he did quietly and not seeking recognition.
Alderman Hugh McKenzie said Alderman Ball was a respected colleague and his memory would live on in the many things he achieved.
"He was a man with a great social conscious who inspired many, including me," Alderman McKenzie said.
Alderman Robin McKendrick remembered Alderman Ball for the good debates they had across the chamber but once outside, no grudges were held.
Alderman McKendrick said his thoughts were also with the truck driver and the emergency service crews who attended the scene.
Alderman Ball's public funeral will be held at Albert Hall at 2pm, followed by the release of bio-degradable balloons and picnic at City Park.