KING'S CORONATION MEDAL
After receiving nearly a hundred nominations for the King's Coronation Medal — each of which had invested a significant amount of time and energy to improve their community and country — I am honoured to announce that thirty exceptional individuals from the from the Portage–Lisgar constituency have been selected for this medal.
Recipients have dedicated their time, energy, and expertise to making a positive difference in the lives of others — whether through volunteer work, public service, or leadership in their respective fields.
Thank you to everyone that took the time to nominate a fellow community member for this honour. It was inspiring to read through the submissions and see the exceptional contributions that so many have made to our communities. Their work is truly a testament to the spirit of service, compassion, and selflessness that thrives in Portage–Lisgar.
For a list of recipients and photos, please see below.
RECIPIENTS
Maurice Butler served as police chief in Morden and St. Anne and made significant contributions to the development of several non-profit organizations and community projects. He is commemorated for dedicating his life to the service of his community.
Peter Cantelon is an active volunteer in the Winkler-Morden area, award-winning columnist, and military veteran. He currently serves as the Executive Director of The Jubilee Fund, a non-profit charity that works to reduce poverty throughout Manitoba.
Isaac Dyck has been an active volunteer for 86 years, including 52 years with the Winkler Fire Department. Isaac is recognized as an encouraging, committed, and hardworking individual by his family and all those he has worked with.
Kenton Dyck is recognized for his philanthropy in science and innovation. Working entirely on a not-for-profit basis, Kenton has used his passion for astronomy and community to teach hundreds about the sky and space innovation over the past 80 years.
Harold Espinosa is an active philanthropist in the Winkler community, best known for sponsoring refugees and supporting families and youth in need. Harold is recognized for improving and supporting his community and others around the world.
Capt (Ret) Eric Fast spent 37 years in the Air Force, serving as a pilot, instructor, and trainer, and we went on to become a well renowned Snowbird. He has volunteered on flood duties and with the Salvation Army. Eric is recognized for his perseverance and eager volunteerism.
Linda Fehr is a cheerful and dedicated volunteer, lending a hand at almost every community event. Her contributions have touched many. Linda's servant heart and humble spirit are recognized by the Morden community and all those around her.
Dawn Froese has 30 years of service to Big Brother and Big Sisters and has made meaningful impacts on the lives of countless young people across our region. She has also volunteered with various organizations, including on boards and foundations.
Dennis Galbraith has long been a valuable member of the Oakville community. His efforts to build a new community centre and daycare, as well as his numerous local contributions, demonstrate his commendable and humble dedication to the community.
Patricia Gibson played a key role in developing the Boundary Trails Health Centre, overseeing the building of Tabor Home, and lobbying for the BTHC expansion. She is commemorated for her significant contributions to health care in her community over the past 40 years.
Jack Heppner demonstrates a dedication to bringing people together through his management of the community garden and support for newcomers. His contributions and initiatives have had an invaluable impact on the Altona community.
Valerie Hill has been an active volunteer for over 20 years, including 16 years at the Portage Salvation Army. Her earnest efforts to help youth and women have garnered respect and gratitude from her community.
Sergeant Jason Hoshowski has served in the Canadian Armed Forces since 2013 and is a volunteer firefighter in his community. Jason is dedicated to several volunteer positions and is recognized for fostering community and wellness.
Staff Sergeant Rodney Hutter has served with the Winnipeg Police for over 33 years. His service, along with his involvement with several non-profit organizations, exemplifies excellence and commitment in both policing and community service.
Michael Jarvie has a long and distinguished record of service with the Royal Canadian Air Cadets, the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves, the Canadian Army and with the Royal Canadian Air Force. After serving for over 4 decades, Michael retired and has since joined the Corp of Commissionaires and is employed at Cancer Care Manitoba.
Betty Jean-Checkley is a retired teacher and has been involved with Habitat for Humanity since 2008. She strongly believes in giving back to her community and currently volunteers with a variety of organizations.
Paulette Martel is a dedicated volunteer as an editor, photographer, and publisher of the local French Paper: Le Montagnard, recognized across North America and overseas. Paulette is commemorated for her countless hours and effort.
Robert McMillan is a devoted member of his community, volunteering for 67 years as an organist, 62 years with the Austin Historical Village, and 7 years as a driver for cancer patients. He is recognized for his philanthropy and visiting those in need.
Jenn McStravick is a leader in addressing economic hardship, food insecurity, and low morale among military families. She runs the Borden Support Centre, organizes community events, and is recognized for fostering support within the CAF community.
Callum Morrison is an active volunteer in the Altona community and has helped countless families integrate into the community. Through organizing fundraisers and events, he has demonstrated outstanding commitment to helping newcomers and making all those around him feel welcome. He has volunteered for numerous organizations and also involved with the Monarchist League of Canada.
Nahid Rahman is a dedicated member of the Portage la Prairie community. By supporting newcomers and organizing community events, his unwavering commitment to helping others has strengthened the social fabric of the community.
Neil Schmidt demonstrated a lifetime passion for the community of Winkler. He served as a council member and mayor, was an active volunteer in his community, including his service as a volunteer firefighter and served on several boards and projects. He is honored for his humble servant leadership.
Pastor Gennadiy Sharapov is an active philanthropist within the immigrant community. In his roles as a pastor and business owner, he has helped many families find jobs, vehicles, and homes. He is recognized for providing great relief to those in need.
CWO Charles Smith served Canada for over 30 years and retired as a Chief Warrant Officer. He is commended for his involvement in creating the non-profit organization, Kilo 9 Elite Training Inc., that helps veterans dealing with PTSD through K9 companionship.
Cheryl Stock serves on several boards and non-profits, organizes community events and fundraisers, and is a major contributor to local projects. Cheryl is recognized for her endless support and dedication to making the world a better place.
Estelle Thornson is an active member of the Starbuck and Elie communities. Her numerous contributions to local organizations reflect her selfless dedication to her family and community. Estelle continues to be a role model to those around her.
Eva Unger volunteers with Sixteen16 Ministry in various roles, having been with the Ministry since its start. She and her three girls are always willing to lend a hand, even at a moments notice.
Kelvin Vanderveen is the owner of Vanderveen Greenhouses in Carman. Kelvin provides the flowers along the main street each year and is an active member of his church. He is recognized as a valuable and generous member of his community.
Rob Wiebe is a founding member of the Winkler Veterans Association and has organized Remembrance Day services for over 20 years. Rob is recognized as a positive person and tireless advocate for veterans and serving members in his community.
David Wilson has spent a lifetime as a community volunteer and 25+ years volunteering in his community. With over forty years of military service in the reserves, David’s volunteerism is widely recognized and commemorated by his community.
