John Engen

Missoula, Montana, lost its 50th and longest-serving mayor on Aug. 15, 2022. He was 57 years old. John Engen was a champion of conservation efforts, a partner in tackling hunger and homelessness, and a proponent of thoughtful business development. Missoula is one of the nation's most desirable places to live in part because of Mayor Engen's 16-year commitment to comprehensive planning, making Missoula compact, sustainable and vibrant with thriving cultural and recreational infrastructure. One of his greatest achievements was restoring the city's water system to public ownership.

Mayor Engen was a consummate public servant. "Local government does the work that doesn't make sense for the private sector, because it's too risky, too expensive, not profitable and unattractive, while still being absolutely necessary. We have the resources, expertise and ability to make our community safer,” he once wrote, when making a case for the city purchasing a motel to use for emergency shelter.

Mayor Engen will be remembered for his humor, dedication to the middle class and his vision for a progressive Missoula. He did not shy away from difficult challenges. He openly shared his struggles with obesity, alcoholism, depression — afflictions shared by so many people — and in seeking treatment, demonstrated the power and possibility of recovery.

When he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March, he reminded city employees and partners, "You all inspire me every day. I see you solve problems, improve lives, keep people safe, protect our environment, take care of kids and demonstrate compassion and professionalism in everything you do. And sometimes all of that comes with slings and arrows from the folks we all serve, but I still believe most Missoulians, most days, appreciate you and are grateful to live in this place. It continues to be a privilege to serve you. Thank you for all you do."

— Juanita Vero, Missoula County Commissioner and Western Leaders Network Board Member