COLLINSVILLE, Ala.– Collinsville is mourning the loss of former mayor Johnny Traffanstedt, who passed away over the weekend. Town officials say Traffanstedt’s impact on the community will be felt for years to come.

According to his obituary, Traffanstedt was dedicated in everything he did — from working at his father’s grocery store to serving in the National Guard and supporting numerous local organizations.

He served 17 years as mayor of Collinsville and was a founding member of the Collinsville Jaycees. He also served for many years as president of the Collinsville Athletic Club, spent nearly two decades on the board of DC Gas, and served 15 years as president of the DeKalb County Mayors’ Association.

Late last year, both chambers of the Alabama State Legislature passed resolutions honoring Traffanstedt for his years of service and leadership.

Projects highlighted in those resolutions included securing 200-thousand dollars for water line upgrades, construction of a new fire hall, renovations to Town Hall and the former National Guard Armory — now the Collinsville Community Center — along with improvements to Veterans’ Park.

Current Mayor Jeff Chandler said he had known Traffanstedt his entire life and described him as having one of the sharpest business minds he had ever known.

Chandler said Traffanstedt always understood the town’s financial position and left Collinsville in strong financial shape.

He also reflected on their many conversations about town business, as well as seeing Traffanstedt regularly in the stands supporting Collinsville High School athletics.

While much of their relationship was professional, Chandler said the two also shared friendly rivalry moments — with Traffanstedt being a devoted fan of Auburn University.

Chandler said Traffanstedt loved Collinsville deeply and will be greatly missed.