Roger Wierinckx, Former Mayor of Linden and Lubbeek, Dies at 98

Roger Wierinckx, a revered former mayor of Linden and Lubbeek, has passed away at the age of 98. Wierinckx was a dominant figure in local politics, serving as mayor for a combined 36 years.

His political career began in 1959 as a council member in Linden. Following the merger with Lubbeek, he served as mayor of Linden for 19 years. After the amalgamation, he briefly served as a council member in the unified municipality before becoming mayor of Lubbeek for another 17 years. His influence extended beyond municipal borders, as he also served as a provincial councilor and a senator.

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An icon of Linden and Lubbeek. Devoted mayor and senator for everyone. He made our village prosperous. An example.

Wierinckx retired from politics in 2006. Current Mayor Theo Franken (N-VA) remembered him as "an icon of Linden and Lubbeek," praising his dedication as a "devoted mayor and senator for everyone" who "made our village prosperous." Former council member Ann De Martelaer recalled warm, trusting conversations with Wierinckx, expressing gratitude for his willingness to share his life story openly in a podcast interview.

Wierinckx died on Wednesday at the Campus Dommelhof care center in Tielt-Winge. His long tenure and significant impact have left a lasting legacy on the communities he served.

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Our conversations were warm, full of trust in a friendly atmosphere, always with a wink. I am grateful that he was willing to share his life story so openly with me.