Twenty outstanding individuals from Huron-Bruce have been awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
The medal, created to mark the King’s coronation in May 2023, recognizes Canadians who have made significant contributions to their communities or brought distinction to the country.
The twenty local recipients were selected following an open nomination process for residents of Huron-Bruce. Huron-Bruce MP Ben Lobb, who oversaw the nomination process, says the recipients come from diverse backgrounds.
"We had many qualified applicants, and it was truly remarkable the number of people in Huron-Bruce that have dedicated so much of their time and effort to the betterment of our community. The recipients embody different backgrounds, careers, and interests but each of them has shown a lifetime of commitment to their community and country," Lobb shared.
The Coronation Medal Presentation was held in Wingham on March 5 in a ceremony held for recipients, their nominators and family.
Andrew Charles Dykeman (Nominated by: Jessica Dykeman)
Andrew Dykeman is a dedicated community-focused business owner whose generosity has made a lasting impact. His unwavering support for local organizations includes charitable donations and sponsorships benefiting the Food Bank, Lions Club, breakfast programs, local schools, and the Drop-In at The Bridge. Through his commitment to giving back, Andrew continues to strengthen and uplift his community, making a remarkable difference in the lives of those around him.
Bonnie Sitter (Nominated by: Elaine Cook, Linda Schori, and Patricia Campbell)
Bonnie Sitter is a dedicated historian and storyteller committed to preserving Canada's rural heritage. Her work has been featured in publications such as The Rural Voice, Legacy, Harrowsmith, Esprit de Corps, Ontario Farmer, and Oh Canada. As an author, she has written On the Wright Track and co-authored The Beauty and Bounty of Huron County and Agriculture Today. Bonnie is currently working on a documentary highlighting the Farmerettes and their significant role in Canadian history, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and remembered for generations to come.
Captain Ryan F. McClinchey (Nominated by: Wayne Arthur McConnell)
Captain Ryan McClinchey has dedicated over 30 years to community service and leadership. A recognized life member of the Kinsmen Club of Goderich, he has served in numerous roles, including President, Vice-President, and as a member of the national board of directors. His commitment to local events such as the Goderich Winter Carnival, Summerfest, and the Kinsmen TV Auction has strengthened community engagement and support. In addition to his civic contributions, Captain McClinchey actively mentors and supports youth through his involvement with the 532 Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron of Goderich, inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Chandrashekhar Tripathi (Accepted by his son) (Nominated by: Abhilasha Tripathi)
Chandrashekhar Tripathi is a dedicated advocate for inclusivity, community building, environmental stewardship, and cultural harmony in Huron-Bruce. As a founding member of the Kincardine Multicultural Celebration and the Hindu Cultural Open House, he has played a vital role in fostering cultural awareness and unity. His commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in his efforts to plant 1,000 trees through the Living Snow Fence Project. Additionally, he actively supports education and spiritual care as a member of the Grey-Bruce Health Care Spiritual Council, ensuring holistic well-being for the community. His contributions continue to enrich and strengthen the region.
Commander Patrick H. Armstrong (Nominated by: Wayne Arthur McConnell)
Patrick Armstrong serves as the Commander of Huron and Area Search and Rescue, an organization he co-founded and has led since its inception. His dedication to public safety is evident through his leadership in emergency response efforts, as well as his commitment to community outreach and education on preparedness. His contributions have played a vital role in enhancing safety awareness and readiness in the region.
Donald McFadzean Dodds (Nominated by: Darrell Bergsma)
Donald Dodds is a lifelong volunteer whose dedication spans decades of service to his community. Since the 1970s, he has served as the Clerk of Sessions for Caven United Church, providing steadfast leadership and support. A devoted 4-H volunteer for 65 years, he has contributed in numerous capacities and was honoured with the prestigious Arbor Award, the highest recognition a 4-H member can receive. Additionally, Donald has been an integral part of the Huron County Plowmen for an incredible 75 years, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to agricultural heritage and community engagement.
Doug Kennedy (Accepted by his wife Cathy) (Nominated by: Keith Davidson)
It is a great honour to recognize the late Doug Kennedy, with this award being accepted by his wife, Cathy. Doug dedicated nearly six years to serving as a council member for the Town of Kincardine and was a beloved figure in the hockey community. As General Manager of the Kincardine Bulldogs for over 25 years and an official in the Provincial Junior Hockey League, his impact on the sport was immeasurable. In recognition of his 50 years of outstanding service to hockey in Kincardine, Doug was awarded the prestigious Golden Hockey Stick by the Ontario Hockey Association, a testament to his lifelong commitment to the game and his community.
Douglas Fines (Accepted by his staff) (Nominated by: Leah Bortolotti)
For over 30 years, Douglas Fines has been a dedicated member of the Lions Club, embodying a deep commitment to volunteerism and community service. As a local small business owner, he is not only an inspiring entrepreneur but also a passionate advocate for social change. His charitable efforts and dedication to uplifting the community have made a meaningful and lasting impact.
Dr. Maureen Oyaide-Ofenor (Nominated by: Eduvie Martin)
Dr. Maureen Oyaide-Ofenor has dedicated her career to improving the lives of children with special needs. Since moving to Canada over a decade ago, she has practised as an optometrist in Walkerton, specializing in the care of neurodiverse children. As the author of A to Z on How I See, she provides parents with a valuable tool to detect special needs early by observing how children interact with the words in her book. Beyond her clinical work, Dr. Maureen mentors pre-optometry students and uses her platform as a digital creator to advocate for and support children with special needs, making a meaningful impact in both her profession and community.
Dr. Tara Somerville (Nominated by: Vicki Bartels)
Dr. Tara Lynn Somerville is a dedicated and compassionate physician who plays a vital role in her rural community. Combining her medical expertise with a deep commitment to community development, she brings people together to promote healthy lifestyles and improve overall quality of life. Her holistic approach to rural healthcare fosters collaboration and ensures that individuals receive not only excellent medical care but also the support needed to thrive.
Jared Morley Petteplace (Nominated by: Hassan Chamas)
Jared Petteplace is a dedicated community leader and business owner committed to making a positive impact. Actively seeking opportunities to support local initiatives, he exemplifies the spirit of generosity and service. His unwavering dedication to both his community and his family makes him an outstanding role model, inspiring those around him with his leadership and commitment.
Marianne Elizabeth Hogan (Nominated by: Joanne Doherty Marianne)
Elizabeth Hogan is a distinguished leader in the arts and a dedicated mentor within her community. A recipient of the 2013 Mother Teresa Award and the 2018 Inspiring Women of Huron Award, she has made a profound impact through her work as the Artistic Director of the Kingsbridge Centre. Leading initiatives in music, theatre, choir, and visual arts, she showcases talent at the local, national, and international levels while nurturing the creative growth of community youth.
Matthew Digby (Nominated by: Shelby McCallum)
With over 30 years of dedicated community service, Matthew Digby has made a lasting impact through his volunteer efforts. As the manager of the Firefighter Charity Boot Drive, he has helped raise over $100,000 to support those in need. In addition to his role in the Canadian Coast Guard, where he coordinates international disaster response missions, Matthew is an active member of the Lake Smith Conservationists, advocating for environmental preservation. This year, his bravery and dedication were exemplified when he rescued an individual from human trafficking.
Patrick O'Connor (Nominated by: John Cherrie)
Patrick O'Connor is a dedicated community leader, volunteer, and professional auctioneer whose efforts have significantly contributed to numerous local initiatives. He has played a vital role in fundraising for key projects, including the Hospital Foundation, Marine Heritage Society, and the Rotary Clubs of Southampton, Port Elgin, and Saugeen Shores. In addition to his fundraising work, Patrick actively serves on the Town of Saugeen Shores Parks and Trails Committee, chairs both the Planning and Advocacy Committee and the Committee of Adjustment, and has led as Chair of the Marine Heritage Society. A past president of the Rotary Club of Southampton and the charter president of the Rotary Club of Saugeen Shores, Patrick's leadership and dedication continue to strengthen his community.
Rick Shropshall (Nominated by: Nancy Scriver)
Rick Shropshall has dedicated his life to service, both in the military and in his community. Joining the Canadian Armed Forces in 1975, he served for 25 years in the Regular Force before continuing for another nine years in the Primary Reserve. A Legion member for 47 years and now a Life Member, he has held numerous leadership roles, including President, Poppy Chairman, Catering Chairman, Service Officer, Cadet Liaison, Secretary, and Zone Officer. Beyond his contributions to the Legion, Rick has volunteered with the Military Family Resource Centre and worked at the Integrated Personnel Support Unit in London, ON, providing essential support to military members and their families. His unwavering commitment to service continues to have a lasting impact.
Robert Duncan McGregor (Nominated by: Diane Thorne, Nicole Griffin, Anne Elliott, Erin Donald, Wes MacVicar, Kathryn Wettlaufer, and David Armour)
Robert Duncan McGregor has been a driving force in the arts and his community for over 60 years. A playwright, director, actor, and artistic director, his work has tackled important themes of fairness, tolerance, and Canadian history, leaving a lasting impact on audiences. Beyond his artistic contributions, Robert has been a dedicated supporter of local organizations, raising funds for initiatives such as the Beach Festival, Blyth Festival, St. Joseph's Historical Society, The Livery's Excellence in Education program, and the Alexandra Marine & General Hospital (AMGH). His lifelong commitment to the arts and philanthropy continues to enrich the community.
Sergeant Laszlo Santha (Ret.) (Nominated by: Kim Porquet-Santha)
Retired Sergeant Laszlo Santha is a distinguished veteran who dedicated 34 years to the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves, maintaining outstanding service and attendance until his retirement in September. Throughout his career, he served with the Governor General's Foot Guards in Ottawa, The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders in Hamilton, and the Grey and Simcoe Foresters in Owen Sound. His duties included performing in Honour Guards for royalty and foreign dignitaries, granting him the privilege of meeting both Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Anne. In 2003, he represented Canada and his regiment on a historic battlefield tour in Europe. Beyond his military service, Laszlo has also devoted 17 years to the Tiverton Fire Department, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to public service and community safety.
Steve Travale Sr. (Nominated by: Jay Bell)
Coach Steve Travale is a dedicated leader in youth baseball, making a lasting impact on players and the community. As an active board member of the Western Ontario Baseball Association and the Kincardine Minor Baseball Association, he has devoted countless hours to the development of young athletes. His coaching has led the Kincardine U18, U13, and U11 teams to provincial championships, a testament to his expertise and commitment. Beyond the field, Steve goes above and beyond by mentoring players interested in continuing their baseball careers, helping them build portfolios and navigate opportunities for college-level play. His passion and dedication to the sport continue to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Superintendent Paul James Thorne (Nominated by: Diane Thorne and Norm Leddy)
Paul Thorne is a dedicated advocate for veterans and a committed community leader. For the past 15 years, he has worked closely with veterans, providing one-on-one support and preserving their legacies through local community initiatives. As President of Legion Branch 109 for five years, he played a key role in strengthening veteran services and community engagement. In addition to his work with the Legion, Paul has contributed to healthcare governance as a board member of Grey Bruce Health Services and has supported youth development through his role as an executive board member of the Saugeen Shores Minor Hockey Association. His lifelong dedication to service continues to make a profound impact on his community.
Thomas Prout (Nominated by: Scott Currie and George Finch)
Thomas Prout has dedicated his career and volunteer efforts to environmental conservation and community development. As the former General Manager and Secretary-Treasurer of the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Authority, he played a pivotal role in preserving local natural resources. He continues this work as a director of the Ausable Bayfield Conservation Foundation. With nearly two decades of service to the Sunset Community Foundation, Thomas was instrumental in establishing the South Huron Community Fund, which has grown to $280,000 in endowments, ensuring long-term support for community initiatives. His leadership and commitment have left a lasting impact on the region.