Sid, the honorary postmaster at the historical Whonnock Post Office, has passed away.
Whonnock resident Paul Stanley made the announcement, saying the beloved 16-year-old cat had medical issues and that he died peacefully.
Sid was named honorary postmaster in March to get more people using the post office.
Originally Stanley thought the orange, short haired, feline, who used to hang out between McFli’s Feed Delivery, on River Road at 272 Street, and the Whonnock Post Office, was only 10 years old. He only recently discovered that Sid was, in fact, six years older.
Stanley came up with the idea after hearing about Canada Post having to close rural post offices across the country and he was concerned the Whonnock Post Office could be a casualty.
So, a postmaster hat was made and the jaded cat posed for photos which were put on postcards and stickers – free to anyone who used the post office.
The idea was inspired by a Japanese cat named Tama – who was named honorary stationmaster of the Kishi Station on the Wakayama Electric Railway Kishigawa Line – which was slated to close due to low ridership.
Stanley hoped that people would send the postcards to family and friends using the services of the office in Whonnock.
Tama passed away in 2015, and a shrine to the cat was built on the platform. The Kishi Railway Station has since named two successors: Nitama and Yontama.
In March Stanley said when Sid’s final day came, another postmaster would be appointed.
For now, though, they are asking for privacy to deal with their loss.
“That’s why I am posting this informaiton so that you will know why you aren’t seeing our favourite furry friend carrying out his duties at the post office and store. He will be missed,” wrote Stanley online.