Each honouree of the Pathway of Fame, Peterborough and District has made a distinct contribution to the area’s arts and humanities heritage. As outlined on our ‘Nominations’ page, the first step in the journey to becoming a Pathway honouree is the submission of a formal nomination by a member of the community, which is then scrutinized by a neutral Selections Committee.
It remains, truly a humbling experience for every individual to whom is bestowed the lasting tribute to their contributions, and recognition of their talent in becoming a Pathway of Fame honouree.
You can find individual Pathway of Fame honourees by doing a simple search of their name using the search bar in the upper-right sector of the page (just look for the magnifying glass). You can also glean a ready snapshot of all inductees in any given year, by clicking on the button that corresponds to the year in which you are interested.
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John Morris
Entertainment/Musical -
Bobby Kinsman
Entertainment/Musical
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Julie Johnston
Literary -
Neil Broadfoot
Visual Arts -
Jan Dries ‘John’ Oosterbroek (d. 2019)
Entertainment/Musical -
Rob Phillips
Entertainment/Musical -
Stan McBride Sr. (1919 – 2005)
Cultural Betterment -
Bea Quarrie
Dramatic Arts -
Richard Hayman
Dramatic Arts -
Mary Lavery (1936 – 2014)
Community Betterment
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Joe DeNoble Sr. d. 1988
Entertainment/Musical -
Freidel Washchuk
Visual Arts
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Geoff Hewitson
Dramatic Arts -
The Bobcaygeon Olde Tymers
Entertainment/Musical
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Father Leo Coughlin
Cultural Betterment -
Mike Towns
Cultural Betterment -
Paul Ayotte
Cultural Betterment -
Clare Galvin
Literary
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Graham Hart
Media -
Una and Alan Golding
Samaritan -
Maureen Harris-Lowe
Entertainment/Musical -
Randy Read
Dramatic Arts -
Paul Brown
Cultural Betterment
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Don Parnell
Cultural/Community Betterment -
David Sutherland
Community Builder -
Barb Bell
Samaritan
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Yeotes Family
Samaritan
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William Lett
Visual Arts
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Dr. Barclay McKone (1914 – 2006)
Cultural Betterment
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Stephen Kylie
Cultural Betterment
John Morris
Entertainment/Musical
For many, the true test of life well-lived, is the capacity to make mole hills out of mountains. To be a respected entertainer, songwriter and tireless community volunteer are true enough achievements on their own. But along the way, John Morris has had to make the mountain of blindness into a mole hill.
John is a self-taught musician and songwriter who’s given selflessly of his time and talent to raise money for charities such as the Cancer Society, Easter Seals, The Heart & Stroke Foundation, Peterborough Food Bank and Peterborough Warming Room. John works extensively with CNIB, often going into schools to give young people a sense of what it’s like to live with blindness and work with a guide dog. To make life better for others, he works with Council for Persons with Disabilities, the Transportation Committee, and Access Awareness Committee.
In 1994, in recognition of his efforts, he was given the City of Peterborough Award of Merit. John is one of the founding members of the Pathway of Fame, which recognizes in others the qualities and achievements so evident in John himself.
John Morris is living proof each of us should face our unique challenges; the quality of our lives lay in who we become, and what we accomplish.
- photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner
Bobby Kinsman
Entertainment/Musical
One of the best-known, and most loved figures on Peterborough’s music scene: Bobby Kinsman was known as ‘Mr. Big Band’ for over 50 years. During the War years, Bobby did tours of duty with Canadian Army Shows overseas. Returning to Peterborough, he assembled a tight-knit big band that played to packed houses every night at Club Aragon (now The Trentwinds). Many of his Saturday night performances were broadcast ‘live’ across Canada on the old CBC Blue Network.
The popularity of the Big Band era began to wane as musical tastes changed. But Bobby Kinsman’s Big Band popularity, never waned. His group continued to perform at dances, concerts, and venues such as the Festival of Lights, as Bobby Kinsman kept the sound of the Big Band alive.
Julie Johnston
Literary
Julie Johnston grew up in a small town in eastern Ontario, then went to the University of Toronto to study physio and occupational therapy. After university she and her husband, whom she met while in Toronto, worked for over a year at the Ontario Hospital School for physically and mentally handicapped children in Smith Falls. There followed four months in Europe, a move to Kingston, then Toronto and, finally settling in Peterborough where Julie raised four daughters.
Over the years, she published many short stories in several magazines, but not until an encouraging interview with a writer-in-residence at Trent University, did she begin work on a novel. The first draft of ‘Hero of Lesser Causes’ was completed in 1986. After many re-writes and several publishing delays, it was published to great acclaim in 1992, winning the Governor General’s Literary Award / Children’s Literature (for English text) that year. Julie Johnston’s second novel, Adam and Eve and Pinch-Me, was also honoured with the Governor General’s Literary Award, making her the first author to win the award for both her first, and second books.
Neil Broadfoot
Visual Arts
The superb works of Neil Broadfoot, a Peterborough artist with a wide reputation for his landscapes and wilderness scenes, are found in several private and corporate collections. While he worked mostly with watercolours, Broadfoot also dabbled in oils, acrylics and multi-media.
Upon graduating from the Ontario College of Art in 1961, he worked as a commercial artist for five years before becoming a teacher. ln addition to teaching at Crestwood Secondary School in Peterborough for 34 years, Broadfoot taught at art schools in Buckhorn, Haliburton, and locally. He worked on maps, murals and banners for the Canadian Canoe Museum, where he was an artist-in-residence. With the late George Elliott, another noted Peterborough artist and Pathway inductee, Neil Broadfoot painted the former mural at the Peterborough Memorial Centre, and designed the iconic Petes logo for the historic Jr. A hockey franchise. His artwork has been featured on the cover of Reader’s Digest, in illustrations for text books, and in calendars for General Motors.
Neil Broadfoot passed away in July, 2020 following a brief illness.
- Photo courtesy of Lance Anderson, Peterborough This Week / Metroland / MYKawartha.com
Jan Dries ‘John’ Oosterbroek (d. 2019)
Entertainment/Musical
Many Peterboronians may not be capable of correctly spelling his last name, but it is certain there are not many citizens who have not heard of him. Also affectionately known as ‘Johnny O’, he is well-regarded for his commitment to music and for the generosity he has shown sharing his time and talent.
John Oosterbroek’s life and musical journey are one, and the same. From the time, at 8 years of age, when his father taught him clarinet, his passion for playing and sharing his talent spread from his native Utrecht, Netherlands to Europe, the Middle East and North America. His teaching at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School and Lindsay’s LCVI High School endeared him to generations of aspiring musicians.
It is his involvement as Conductor of the Peterborough Symphony Orchestra (PSO) and Peterborough Concert Band, as well as his status as a lifetime member of the Kiwanis Music Festival, that shine as his crowning achievements. So too, are the many, many people who have benefited from dutiful teaching courtesy of John and his wife in one of the two New Horizon Band organizations in this area.
A serious accident while performing only slowed him for a while, but with his recovery came his renewed dedication to giving of himself. A recipient of an Ontario government Volunteer Service Award for his work with the PSO, John Oosterbroek has touched so many hearts and brought forth their love of music.
With great pride and humility, The Pathway of Fame welcomes Johnny O to join its group of distinguished Honourees.
Mr. Oosterbroek passed away in June, 2019.
Rob Phillips
Entertainment/Musical
To hear Rob Phillips play the piano is to immediately sense that both, are part of the other!
He began classical studies at the age of 7. However it is safe to say, now decades later, that Rob was born to play, sing and write music. Introduction to boogie-woogie mates Meade Lux Lewis, Pete Johnson and Albert Simmons set a tone for his musical pedigree, and articulates his jazz interpretation even now.
Peterborough and district is fortunate that Rob has so completely involved himself in playing with, and contributing to the sound of bands and individuals here at home. His dedication to playing piano and organ, singing, writing and arranging jazz, blues, rock and pop music – as well as being an accomplished classical pianist – has highlighted the local music scene for decades.
Rob Phillips is engrossed in the musical life of the community – from taking part in Musicfest, to serving as a director of Trent Radio, as well as fashioning and organizing countless benefit concerts.
Although he teaches classical piano and preps jazz students for post-secondary jazz studies at McGill and Humber Colleges, it is his commitment to the hometown music scene that makes Rob such an asset to this community. It’s his professionalism and musical excellence that shines as a respected ambassador for Peterborough wherever he travels, with his work.
Stan McBride Sr. (1919 – 2005)
Cultural Betterment
In the history of Peterborough, no one more personified the term ‘community service’ than did Stan McBride Sr.. Nearly all his adult life, he gave unselfishly of his time, energy and talents on behalf of almost every worthwhile community cause that came along.
In his early days, area residents cheered on his athletic abilities and, later, he served his city as Alderman, Mayor and Sheriff.
On a more casual basis, Stan was a popular and revered emcee, toastmaster and humourist – not to mention a willing volunteer for numerous boards and committees. For more than 50 years, Stan McBride Sr. demonstrated that volunteerism, with a smile, is the key to a better community.
Bea Quarrie
Dramatic Arts
Confirmation of any kind is a less-than-desirable state, in which to exist. Bea Quarrie remains an example of a life spent championing the transformative power of what arts can achieve. Bea is involved in all aspects of the arts, experiencing everything the world of drama offers in its many facets.
Bea’s theatrical experience extends a resume of over 150 productions as actor, director and producer; an award -winning director whose productions represented Canada at international festivals in Japan, Germany, Ciruba, Venezuela, and in her homeland. For years, her expert theatre reviews appeared in The Peterborough Examiner.
Bea Quarrie found time to teach dramatic and visual arts at Lakefield College School. Her expertise is acknowledged far beyond Peterborough but, thankfully, this community is beneficiary of her unique artistic vision.
- photo courtesy of Lance Anderson, MyKawartha.com
Richard Hayman
Dramatic Arts
For a true devotee, art is an integral element of life. It’s as essential to existence as food or oxygen. There’s no moment when an artist stops being an artist.
For much of his life, Richard Hayman has been consumed by his art.
As a respected artist and educator, Richard touched the lives of many in the community. In art, creating and teaching are part of the same thing. He first gained prominence teaching art at Lakefield College School. He went on to establish the Art School of Peterborough, There he expanded the artistic horizons of literally thousands of students by developing courses in pottery, etching, watercolours, as well as oils and portraiture. His personal creations adorn numerous collections, both public and private. Over the years, his commissioned portraits of Trent University’s presidents added a human flavour to the history of Peterborough’s remarkable university.
There’s no doubt, art is a talent. However, for Richard Hayman art is also a gift to be shared, and nurtured. It’s a reciprocal relationship. His accomplishments prove that by sharing art, you heighten and hone your own artistry.
The Kawarthas have been the beneficiary of that relationship.
Mary Lavery (1936 – 2014)
Community Betterment
While many have been, and still are champions of the preservation and celebration of local heritage and history, few have displayed the level of passion and sheer tenacity that Mary Laverty brought to bear over some three decades.
Starting in the early 1980s, Mary clearly recognized the need to preserve all forms of local heritage, including researching and presenting the history and architecture of buildings. She volunteered her time for restoration efforts, was involved with the naming and cataloging of Roy Studio Images, assisted in the writing and development of public policy on heritage issues, and rewrote the bylaws of the Peterborough Historical Society to bring them in line with 21st century thinking and practices. In short, Mary saw the pressing need for cultural preservation, rolled up her sleeves and made it happen.
Mary’s work with Roy Studio Images led to her researching for her book Upper Stoney Lake: Gem of the Kawarthas. Later, with her husband Doug, she researched and wrote Up The Burleigh Road: Beyond The Boulders. For her writing prowess and the breadth of her research, she received the 2011 Award of Merit from the Ontario Heritage Trust.
Among the many who worked with Mary on a number of committees and projects was inaugural Trent University president Dr. Tom Symons. Just recently, he remembered Mary for “standing out amongst those who have cherished and cared for the distinctive heritage of this old Ontario town.”
During her five terms as president of the Peterborough Historical Society, Mary sewed heritage dresses for volunteers to wear and managed the historical preservation of the museum. In addition, she organized the High School History Awards and the annual Heritage Awards presentation. Mary also spoke on heritage issues before numerous groups as well as promoted and organized active community participation in local heritage activities, most notably via the annual Doors Open Peterborough initiative.
Before her passing in July 2014, Mary amassed a number of awards and honours. In 1985, her championing of the educational and historical significance of PCVS brought her an Award of Merit as Educator of the Year; in 2007, and again in 2009, the City of Peterborough presented her with its Cultural Betterment Award; and 2011 brought her the Award of Merit from Heritage Ontario. Mary also won the George A. Cox Heritage Award.
It’s no small wonder that Trent Valley Archives director Elwood Jones praised Mary as the backbone of the Peterborough Historical Society, her husband Doug noting “When Mary got involved in a cause, she really believed in it.” Mary’s many contributions continue to form the foundation of historical understanding and preservation in Peterborough.
Joe DeNoble Sr. d. 1988
Entertainment/Musical
Music is made in many different ways; no one was more aware of it than Joseph DeNoble Sr., or just plain ‘Joe.’ The Musicland store he created and operated was a palace of musical instruments and a place of learning.
Joe played most every instrument but was quick to emphasize, he played them all badly, except for the accordion and Hammond organ.
‘Music is Happiness’ was his motto and Joe DeNoble’s contribution of instruments and sound equipment to charitable functions of the day, remains legendary to this day.
Musicland benefited from Del Crary’s promotion which aided the excellent quality of service; some of the area’s foremost musicians staffing the teaching roster.
Joe’s generosity and accomplishments served as a lively springboard for careers of countless musicians in the area.
Mr. DeNoble passed away in 1988 after a courageous battle with cancer.
Freidel Washchuk
Visual Arts
In her native Germany, Freidel Washchuk learned needlework and weaving skills, making her one of Canada’s most compelling artists. On a world tour to promote her works, Friedel fell in love with the allure of the Canadian landscape and heritage, and moved to Canada. After working for a time in Toronto, she relocated to the Peterborough area, devoting herself to a remarkable passion as a tapestry artist.
Drawing on the natural beauty and history of the Kawarthas, Freidel Washchuk became the first weaver to serve as Artist-in-Residence at Trent University. Her tapestries have delighted patrons at galleries across Canada and Europe.
Geoff Hewitson
Dramatic Arts
Musicologists agree we can thank The Beatles for more than an exceptional body of music. A generation can thank them for opening the door for young people to form their own music groups with no formal musical training. Teenagers of the 1960’s and beyond created their own sound, and had loads of fun along the way.
Geoff Hewitson is a great example of that era. As lead singer for such wells of memory as The Continentals, The Jaguars and The Fabulous Fugitives, he’s considered a legend of the golden age of Peterborough Rock & Roll. What set Geoff apart was his eagerness to expand his creative horizons. His highly acclaimed and award-winning YOUR TV documentary ‘Peterborough’s Rock & Roll Roots’ revived wonderful memories of those who lived through the era and, maybe, just a small measure of envy among those born too late to enjoy the special good times.
Geoff also wrote a comic drama ‘Wild Oats,’ a highlight of Peterborough Theatre Guild’s 2003 season. Over the years, he’s performed in various capacities with almost every local theatre group, including a superb performance in 4th Line Theatre’s production of “Doctor Barnardo’s Children.”
Geoff Hewitson is a product of a time when music and performing were fun. Creativity was hands-on, and heartfelt. Performance in Peterborough is the richer because he’s carried the spirit, and never dropped the ball…
The Bobcaygeon Olde Tymers
Entertainment/Musical
To have talent to make music is a joy! To make music with a sense of tradition and community is an even greater joy for both artist, and audience alike.
It’s that joy that’s made Bobcaygeon Olde Tymers one of the most popular musical groups in the Kawarthas, and Central Ontario.
Bobcaygeon Olde Tymers is a group of seniors who have loved, and played music all their lives. Collectively, these eight musicians represent over 400 years of musical experience and they take pride in their dedication to performing and preserving old-time fiddle music. The music, and the style without doubt has an energizing effect because these ‘mature’ musicians average close to 100 dates each year – performing at hospitals, nursing and senior’s homes, as well as dances, fairs and countless community functions; in other words, wherever a toe is willing to tap.
Bobcaygeon Olde Tymers are frequent, and welcome performers at The Seniors Jubilee held every year at Roy Thompson Hall in Toronto. In 2003, the group received a recognition award from the Bobcaygeon Chamber of Commerce honouring their dedication to community.
From Bobcaygeon to Bowmanville, Peterborough to Port Hope, Lindsay to Lakefield, wherever people gather to enjoy old-time fiddle music, the Bobcaygeon Olde Tymers have been there.
Father Leo Coughlin
Cultural Betterment
His vast reputation of never the narrow-minded or exclusionary cleric is legend in this area. His birth, and raising on a farm in Norwood may have had a lot to do with his ecumenical viewpoint on life.
‘Father Leo,’ or just plain ‘Leo’ to those who know him, has pastored the wider community, intellectually and spiritually, in life’s happy and sad moments without distinction. His greatest legacy is one of inclusion and genuine love and respect for all. Believers and non-believers have found in him one who is consoling, stimulating and collaborative.
Few clergy spend as much time visiting the sick at PRHC including those in Palliative Care, providing comfort to patients and family members during their difficult moments.
His life has been one of a lifelong search and study not only of spirituality but also of modern scientific cosmology.
Father Leo has an active internet presence (at Leospot.ca) where one can keep in touch with his thinking, read his Sunday homilies and read articles of interest from other contributors.
He has worked among leaders of all denominations and held workshops on difficult questions, such as death and dying. His secular community interests have seen him serve on the Board of Directors for Big Brothers and Big Sisters, organizing a commercial softball league and an industrial hockey league.
Father Leo Coughlin can be best described as a man who is loved by many – a happy and a humble man, a generous, spiritual and social man, and an all-inclusive person, – embodying all those qualities to which many aspire but few attain.
Mike Towns
Cultural Betterment
Mention the former Towns General Store, and ‘Douro’ will probably be mentioned in the same breath – and the reverse will happen when one mentions Douro – Towns General Store will be mentioned too. Ask the whereabouts of Michael Towns and you will be corrected to say ‘Mike’ Towns. For it is as ‘Mike’ that Towns is held by the entire region as the successful, dedicated and newly retired businessman, accomplished musician and now it’s more recent Author-In-Residence!
Just as his father and grandfather before him, Mike welcomed customers to the famous store established in 1892, and operated continuously until it succumbed to a massive fire on February 2nd, 2018. When minding the store for most of his life, he always showed a genuine interest and deep compassion for those who frequented his establishment.
It can truly be stated Mike’s journey has been walked with integrity, humility and grace. He is certainly regarded as a cherished gem within the community of Douro. Now it is Mike Town’s penning as an author too which has allowed the many descendants of Douro residents, those residing within it, and those who have moved away to rekindle their roots.
Mike’s two books, ‘While Minding The Store,’ and ‘I Mind The Time,’ chronicle the life and history of the early settlers and previous generations of Douro residents. Readers are gently guided back to a time of faith, family and community.
Mike’s friendly demeanor, ready smile and handshake are testimonial that even in this hurried day and age, one can be assured of personal attention and interest – a genuine quality only transferred from generation to generation.
The Pathway of Fame was formed to enshrine important people such as Mike Towns who represent and maintain those special ideals that have made this area the extra special place that it is.
Paul Ayotte
Cultural Betterment
Paul Ayotte was a technical writer for General Electric of Canada, 1964-2002, but is best known for his remarkable contributions to municipal government. He represented Ashburnham ward, 1978-85, 1987-2003. He served as mayor of Peterborough from 2006 to 2010. During these years he served frequently on committees for finance, public transportation, council procedures and affordable housing.
After the Ides of July flood in 2004, he chaired the Peterborough Area Flood Relief Committee, and while mayor established and energized the Mayor’s Action Committee on Poverty (Peterborough’s first since 1875). During 28 years in public office he has been a tireless advocate for fighting poverty, building affordable housing and finding ways to help the disadvantaged. He then accepted the challenge of chairing the Peterborough United Way campaign for 2012.
His family has been in the area for eight generations, and he admired the community’s ability to meet challenges and to support those in need. He challenged people to give a “gift of hope.”
His amazing public career has always been about finding ways to lead, ways to better the community one person at a time.
Paul Ayotte photo courtesy MyKawartha.com
Clare Galvin
Literary
A wise person once said you cannot know where you’re going without knowing where you came from. Few have been able to express so warmly their appreciation of family and community roots than has Clare Galvin.
Clare’s great, great grandfather was an immigrant of Peter Robinson, who settled in Ennismore Township in 1825. Mr. Galvin built a family home on land settled by his grandfather, and for more than 40 years, Clare was a successful men’s clothier in Peterborough.
However his true passion was sharing history in a gentle, yet compelling fashion. In 1978, drawing on his Irish heritage, he authored ‘The Holy Land – A History of Ennismore Township.’ He also wrote two other books sharing warmhearted memories of a lifetime lived in the Peterborough area: ‘My Town, My Memories,’ and ‘The Days of My Years.’ Along the way, he displayed his wit and humour through the pages of The Peterborough Examiner by way of his ‘Clare Remembers’ columns.
For Clare Galvin, history, place and family roots were a living trust, and he abided by that trust with perception, gentle grace and good humour.
Graham Hart
Media
If Peterborough hasn’t already formally thanked CHNS-FM, it’s well past the time some form of appreciation is shown the Halifax radio station for giving a young Graham Hart a summer job.
In pursuit of an engineering degree at the time but bitten hard by the broadcasting bug, Graham left Dalhousie University after his third year and pursued radio full-time. A series of on-air positions in Nova Scotia followed before Graham moved to Ontario and worked at radio stations in Chatham, Hamilton and Niagara Falls before his acceptance, in 1973 of a job offer from CHEX Television in Peterborough. Hired as news anchor, Graham quickly became the face of CHEX. Before retiring in 2018, he had served as News Director, Assistant Television Program Director and executive vice-president of affiliated CHEX Radio.
As big an impact as Graham had on viewers’ daily lives via his news reports, and his hosting of specials, documentaries the long-running Campus Quiz and Flashback programs, his work outside of the studio cemented his position as a community leader. Beyond volunteering his silky smooth delivery to the benefit of countless events and fundraisers as an emcee and guest speaker, Graham has worked tirelessly for a number of non-profit organizations. The Canadian Mental Health Association, the Peterborough Family Resource Centre, the Lakefield Animal Welfare Society, the Peterborough Festival of the Arts, the Community Foundation of Greater Peterborough, the Peterborough Pathway of Fame, and the Ontario March of Dimes are but just a few of his many volunteer affiliations. And then there’s his work for Easter Seals that has seen him appear as a regular on the annual telethon broadcast for no fewer than 47 years.
As one would expect, Graham has been duly honoured by a variety of organizations. Named a Paul Harris Fellow by Rotary International and a Melvin Jones Fellow by the Lions Club International Foundation, Graham was the first recipient of the Gordon Holnbeck Community Service Award and, in 2014, the City of Peterborough presented him with its prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.
Una and Alan Golding
Samaritan
If you look at Pathway of Fame nomination form, the criterion for Community Samaritan category reads, “one who is ready and generous in helping others.” Una and Alan Golding were a pair who readily and generously helped others. As a couple, as well as individually, they were also proof that what is important isn’t the magnitude of the act, it’s the magnitude of the heart behind them.
Una, and her late husband Alan were both veterans of World War II and, for years, were involved, energetic members of The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52: Una as Branch secretary and Alan as youth education representative. Alan was also active with Smith Township Historical Society and Una, the chief organizer of the immensely popular Seniors Picnic every June at Del Crary Park.
Both were involved in organizing numerous seniors’ luncheons and events. For nearly two decades, they volunteered with Meals On Wheels and gave generously of their time and energy with Peterborough Community Care.
In their unselfish and caring way, Una and Alan Golding have made Peterborough area a better place in which to live. Now a widow, Una continues that proud tradition.
Alan Golding passed in 2019.
Maureen Harris-Lowe
Entertainment/Musical
There’s a reason any reference to Maureen Harris- Lowe is generously sprinkled with the term ‘mentor.’
As director of the Peterborough Children’s Chorus for the past 20 years, Maureen has served as a wonderful role model for countless youths and young adults, helping each to grow not only as a vocalist but also as a confident performer whose professionalism and good manners represent Peterborough and area exceedingly well.
Under Maureen’s direction, the Peterborough Children’s Chorus has won numerous awards while traveling to competitions across North America and beyond. Striving to give her charges new experiences that will create lifelong memories – the chorus’ recent backing of iconic rock band Foreigner during its recent Peterborough concert is one example – Maureen sets a high standard for the choral group but does so in a fun way that leaves all feeling good.
“She is quick to give him a smile, a hug and make him feel like he is the most special one in the room,” says a parent of a young chorus member.
A graduate of the University of Western Ontario with a Bachelor of Musical Arts, Maureen is a superb vocalist who sings with the Peterborough Pop Ensemble as well as performs at numerous local events and gatherings. Her passion for music is abundantly clear in all she undertakes and that passion has been, and remains, infectious much to the benefit of all who cross her path.
Randy Read
Dramatic Arts
Randy Read’s involvement in theatre began in 1975, while a student at Trent University. He worked with Peterborough Theatre Guild, Kawartha Summer Theatre, Edmonton’s Citadel Theatre, Manitoba Theatre for Young People, and the Canadian Stage Company.
While continuing his work in Toronto, Mr. Read has maintained his to the Peterborough area. With a world of experience, in 1997 and assisted by backers and new developments such as Showplace, Randy Read founded Peterborough’s New Stages Theatre Company, a local professional company “bringing compelling stories to life on stage.” New Stages presented works and readings at Showplace and Market Hall Theatre. In 2010, he played the role of Champlain for Little Lake Cemetery Pageant.
As Artistic Director of New Stages he works to give area residents a rare opportunity to see many of Canada’s top actors and singers perform on stage at Showplace and Market Hall. Whenever possible, Mr. Read mixes local actors in productions with seasoned professionals. He’s been a director with the Theatre Guild, and has served as a judge for several events.
Randy Read continues to contribute time and energy to help amateur groups and young thespians. Peterborough is lucky to have a theatre professional promoting the arts in our city.
Paul Brown
Cultural Betterment
To the casual observer, sport is a form of exercise, competition, and entertainment. The primary object is to win but, for those feeling an affinity for athletic pursuits, the word ‘winning’ can take on a wide spectrum of meaning. For Paul Brown, sport is a way of touching the soul.
For close to 50 years, Paul Brown has been deeply involved in the discipline of Judo. He’s a 4th degree black belt and has spent countless hours teaching Judo to young people in the Peterborough area. Significantly, that teaching experience ran parallel to a longtime relationship with the Kawartha-Haliburton Foster Parents Association. With his wife Linda, Paul has been a foster parent for more than 25 years and has used sports to enhance the lives of young people. Through sports, he’s instilled in them the sense of accomplishment, dignity and self-worth; qualities essential to molding a vital human being. In recognition of his efforts, Paul received numerous honours, including and Ontario Volunteer Service Award and Certificate of Merit from the Government of Canada.
In 2004, Paul was inducted into the Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame. The recognition is appreciated. But the true rewards, for Paul Brown, are the meaningful lives that blossom because of his teaching; each human being has worth and can do amazing things.
Don Parnell
Cultural/Community Betterment
The fact that Peterborough has been, and remains, a relatively safe city to live, work and play can’t be denied. For those who believe that status is simply a matter of good luck, Don Parnell reminds us that rolling up one’s sleeves and getting the job done plays a very important role in our collective well-being.
A proud auxiliary member of the Peterborough Police Service for close to 15 years, Don has volunteered an average of 320 hours annually for a variety of supplemental law enforcement tasks, the past nine years as a lead team member of the service’s Home Guard doing, among other things, inspections of break-ins and incidences of domestic violence as well as assisting with missing person searches, door-to-door canvassing and traffic control.
As a full-time member of the Pedal For Hope support team, Don has gifted his time to the annual police-led fundraiser for pediatric cancer research and support dollars. A Commanding Officer’s Certificate of Appreciation awarded him by the RCMP is a testament to his dedication to Pedal For Hope and its mission. In addition, over the past nine years, Don has assisted in a big way with the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics, both locally and in other Ontario jurisdictions where he has assisted other police services with the staging of their special events.
A Kenner Hall of Honour inductee – a distinction he shares with his wife Lesley – Don has been a member of the board for the Kenner Foundation since 2009, serving as its chair for past six years. As such he has been very involved in the organization of fundraising events for the foundation.
Since 1989, Don has played a major role in the staging of the annual Victoria Day fireworks presentation over Little Lake as the lead pyrotechnician, has served as coach and trainer for numerous local hockey and soccer teams, and has been involved with the Food For Kids program.
A recipient of the Queen’s Jubilee Medal for Community Betterment, Don has received two City of Peterborough Civic Awards for his long service.
David Sutherland
Community Builder
In a city where post-secondary education is an exemplary pillar of the community both past and present, David Sutherland stands out as a true architect of that legacy.
Arriving in Peterborough in 1967 to assume the founding president role of what was then known as Sir Sandford Fleming College, David ensured the community college was exactly that with its offering of daytime and evening courses, the establishment of campuses in Lindsay, Haliburton and Cobourg, and the fostering of relationships with local employers via college advisory committees.
More uniquely, David’s relationship with Trent University founding president Tom Symons laid the groundwork for what was a mutually beneficial education-based partnership that remains intact to this day in a number of ways, including the joint nursing program. To show their commitment to that relationship, both David and Tom served on each other’s board of governors.
Retirement in 1981 did little if anything to slow David down. With local lawyer and parole board member Alex Edmison, he helped establish Edmison House, a halfway house for parolees, many of whom were given work at the city’s recycling plant. It didn’t hurt matters that David’s wife Sylvia was mayor at the time and had some influence on that decision.
Other volunteer pursuits saw David serve on the boards of Junior Achievement, the Greater Peterborough Area Economic Development Council and Trent Valley Literacy. Also benefitting from David’s clear commitment to community, was Meals On Wheels.
David Sutherland passed in 1991, robbing Peterborough of what was sure to be years of more meaningful contributions. As Sylvia notes, David’s initial plan was to stay at Fleming five years. That became 10 years and then almost 15, leading to the relatively easy decision that Peterborough, thankfully, would remain their home after his retirement.
Barb Bell
Samaritan
For close to 40 years, Barb and her husband, Allen served as foster parents for the Kawartha Haliburton Children’s Aid Society. She was also actively involved with the Foster Parent Association of Ontario, working extensively to balance the rights of foster parents and the rights of foster children. For many years, she hosted the ‘Good & Country’ show on Trent Radio and is one of the founding members of the Peterborough Pathway of Fame.
Yeotes Family
Samaritan
For many, altruism is a luxury. To Louis and Gus Yeotes and family, it’s a way of life.
In 1903, Louis Yeotes opened his first business on George Street and, for the next 74 years, embraced this community as few others have done. He donated money to almost every sports league in the city and purchased equipment for teams struggling through the Depression when money was scarce. To all charities and civic endeavours, he was a generous donor and the first major contributor to the Memorial Centre building fund. To honour his generosity and kindness to Peterborough, especially to the sporting community, Louis was inducted into the Peterborough & District Sports Hall of Fame.
Louis’ son, Gus, has followed his father’s footsteps. For over 25 years, he’s freely made available Lakeview Bowl to support Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Gus and his family continued to make substantial donations to a multitude of local causes, including Sports Hall of Fame, Showplace, Save The Town Clock fund and Peterborough Regional Health Centre, until they ultimately retired from the business.
For a century, the Yeotes Family has been a vital part of the Peterborough community and, for a century, far too many individuals and organizations – to even begin to mention – have benefited from their heartwarming generosity and kindness.
William Lett
Visual Arts
What defines uniqueness and quality of a city or community? A first impression, most lasting, is often the sense of community and physical design. A city is, first and foremost, buildings whose purpose is to facilitate comfort, function and creativity to those who inhabit it. If architecture and humanity enjoy a happy marriage, it follows that community will be a vital and proud experience.
Over the past 40 years, much of Peterborough’s physical beauty and appeal is the product of the mind of William Lett.
Bill’s introduction to Peterborough came in 1960’s when invited to work with Ron Thom on Trent University’s master plan. He soon added his architectural artistry to the design of Champlain, Lady Eaton and Peter Robinson Colleges. Since establishing his own practice, Bill has given form to numerous Peterborough homes, businesses and public buildings. Remarkable examples of his work include Showplace Peterborough, Royal and Princess Gardens, Fairhaven and Otonabee River Trail Boathouse, just to skim the surface.
To create a setting in which community members can thrive, dream, hope and aspire, the fluidity of movement and design should meld into an appealing and functional physical reality. For that unique melding, the city of Peterborough owes an immense debt of gratitude to the creative vision of William Lett.
Dr. Barclay McKone (1914 – 2006)
Cultural Betterment
If you’ve any doubt that one individual can make a difference in the betterment of the human condition, look no further than the life of Dr. Barclay McKone.
A trusted, tireless family physician, Dr. McKone set his sights on the treatment, and prevention of tuberculosis. Over the years, he helped pioneer programs to rehabilitate tuberculosis patients, particularly with the Department of Veterans Affairs and First Nation bands in Northern Canada. He was instrumental in establishing a vaccine program to help eradicate tuberculosis in Ontario.
With an abiding commitment to cultural and the medical well-being of his community, Barclay McKone served with the Kiwanis Club, the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce and late in life gained attention for his remarkable, handcrafted models of Peterborough’s historical buildings.
Stephen Kylie
Cultural Betterment
Few can claim to equal Stephen Kylie for his dedication and service to his community. He devotes so many volunteer hours to all his various pursuits that it gives one pause to wonder when he has time to pursue his law practice.
Stephen Kylie is one of those people who finds a great deal of satisfaction knowing he is contributing to the well-being, and strength of his community.
Stephen’s vision of a better, caring place in which to live is reflected by the committees in which he is involved. His focus is always on those who require a better standard of housing and care.
At present, Stephen is Chair of the Peterborough Poverty Reduction Network, as well as Chair of the Mount Community Centre. Both are challenging, and demanding responsibilities that Kylie handles with ease, together with an insight possessed by a select few.
Stephen Kylie proves, at every turn, that he is the man of the moment.
It is an impossibility to list Stephen’s volunteer pursuits, as space does not allow.
However we dare mention a few: Co-Chair of the Rotary Club Victoria Day Fireworks and Family Night (Peterborough); President of the Peterborough Diocese Good Shepard Foundation, and Vice-Chair of the Trent University Board of Governors – chairing the Executive and Property and Finance Committees.
He is widely respected among his peers as a pillar of the community and one who can be trusted to offer up thoughtful, caring advice on any problem presented and requested of him. As busy as he is, he always has time to help assist projects other than those which may be commanding his attention at any given moment.
Stephen Kylie’s greatest attribute is the complete devotion he freely offers to any, and all community or church project requesting his expertise.
It is because of people like Stephen Kylie, that our City and surrounding areas remain the jewels they are – and all, for his willingness to give of himself so unselfishly, in order to make it a better place in which to live, for all.
- photo courtesy Clifford Skarstedt, The Peterborough Examiner