He was a quiet taskmaster, and one who will be sorely missed.

Jeff Viney, a longtime Algona resident who performed many civic duties and was an active volunteer in the community, died Nov. 11. He was 54.

Viney’s memorial service is at 1 p.m., Saturday at Yahn & Son Funeral Home, 55 W. Valley Highway.

“He had a quiet willingness to take on tasks that needed to be done,” said Algona Mayor Dave Hill, a longtime friend. “He never blew his own horn. He was a quiet, mellow man who had a quirky sense of humor.

“Anything that was good for residents of the valley he was involved in,” Hill said. “He did so much for his community … and he will be missed.”

Viney served on the Algona City Council, Planning Commission and King County Solid Waste Advisory Board, among the many roles and responsibilities he performed.

An Algona resident since 1985, Viney was involved with the planning and development of the city under several administrations and worked on the original and newly-updated comprehensive plans.

Viney also was an instrumental part of a steering committee that brought back the Auburn International Farmers Market. He designed the first market button and business card, which organizers initially used for marketing purposes.

“Jeff was a unique, dependable person … a gentleman,” said Auburn City Councilman Bill Peloza. “Jeff was a quiet individual who worked very hard behind the scenes and accomplished huge projects. He was extremely artistic and talented and had a very dry sense of humor.”

Viney also was one of the charter members of the Valley Regional Fire Authority Board of Governance, which he served on for three years.

“Jeff was a quiet leader, who did not need to be out in front or get recognition,” said Eric Robertson, VRFA administrator. “He was more interested in ensuring it was done right and less interested in the fanfare. Jeff’s fingerprints of service can be found all over the region.”

Viney is survived by his wife, Cathi, family and many friends.