Medal recipients: top row, left to right: Chris Daly, Glenn Wallace, John Robertson, Kevin Holm, Thomas Orr, Jamie McRae, Michael Nolan, Ranjith Mathew and Joe Kowalski; middle row: Josh Woermke, Jason Lee, Lori Hooper, Brian Hooper, Don Lemke, Evelyn St. Amour, Ann McIntyre, David Lemkay, Kathy Haycock, Blanche Mirault-Ducey and John Jeffrey; front row: Rose Leclaire, Rima Aristocrat, MP Cheryl Gallant, Jody McDonald, Lauretta Rice, David Bennett and Scott Murray.

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Renfrew – Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke MP Cheryl Gallant presented King Charles III Coronation Medals to 26 residents of the riding at a ceremony in the Horton Recreation Centre on Monday, March 3.

She told the recipients the gathering not only celebrated a historic moment in the life of the monarchy, but also to shine a light on the true heart of the Ottawa Valley: its people.

“The Ottawa Valley is a place woven together by its rich history, its cherished traditions, and the
unshakeable spirit of those who call it home,” she said. “Yet, what truly defines us is something even deeper: selflessness, a love of community, and a commitment to uplifting one another.”

She said the people being honoured embodied those values in the most remarkable ways.

“Through your extraordinary acts of service and volunteering, you have strengthened the fabric of our
community, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those around you and an example to follow for future generations here in Renfrew County,” she said.

She said the medal, presented in the name of His Majesty King Charles III, is more than a symbol of recognition—it is a testament to their dedication, compassion, and the quiet heroism that has shaped
the Ottawa Valley into the vibrant, caring place it is today.

“On behalf of all of us here, I extend my warmest congratulations and thanks for your contributions, and I congratulate your families and loved ones for your extraordinary achievement.

“And so, let us now come together for the reason why we are all here today: to celebrate you, our community champions, as we reflect on the importance of service and the enduring legacy you are building for generations to come.”

Medal Recipients

Rima Aristocrat:

Honorary Col. Rima Aristocrat, former President & CEO of Willis College, has transformed lives through innovative education, equipping adults with job-ready skills in business, healthcare, technology, and cybersecurity. A trailblazer, she founded the Canadian Association of Immigrant Professionals, TeKnoWave Inc.—Canada’s first national Indigenous IT training initiative—and the Veteran Friendly Transition Program. She also established the Willis Cybersecurity Academy and scholarships like A Soldier’s Hero for military spouses. Her groundbreaking contributions have earned her global accolades, including the 2018-19 Cyber Hall of Fame, 2020 Women in Cybersecurity, and 2020 Women Who Work awards, and today she is being awarded the King Charles III Crown Coronation Medal.

David Bennett:

Horton Township Mayor David Bennett has been a longstanding figure of Renfrew County politics. He entered the scene of municipal government in 1981 when he first ran, and was elected, as Town Councillor in Horton Township. In 2018, he ran for Mayor, and was acclaimed to his second term in the last municipal election. Beyond his contributions to the people of Horton and the County of Renfrew, Mayor Bennett demonstrated heroism and selflessness when residents along the Ottawa River experienced wreckage to their homes and property during the floods of 2019 and 2020. In good ol’ Ottawa Valley fashion, he rolled up his sleeves and answered the call of duty. He helped flooded residents by restoring and offering materials to rebuild damaged property. Your Worship, thank you for your service, and congratulations on receiving this award.

Chris Daly: Owner and Operator of Daly Construction. If you live in the Madawaska Valley area, you are likely to have seen buildings constructed by Chris. While his craftsmanship is noteworthy, it is his commitment to helping those most vulnerable in our community for which he is being honoured in today’s. For years, Chris has donated 100 turkeys every year to struggling families across Renfrew County. At a time when families are deciding whether to eat or pay for their dwelling, it is people like Chris who truly leave a positive mark on the lives of many.

Kathy Haycock:

Kathy Haycock, a renowned artist from the Ottawa Valley, is our next Coronation Medal recipient. Kathy draws deep creative inspiration from her father, Arctic artist Maurice Haycock, and her long-time artistic role model, A. Y. Jackson of the Canadian Group of Seven. After years as a fiber artist, Kathy discovered her love for oil painting in 1998. Now a dedicated painter, she captures the wild beauty of the Algonquin wilderness and beyond, from Canada’s northern landscapes to the American Southwest. With her rhythmic compositions and expressive brushwork, Kathy’s award-winning work is featured in galleries and collections across Canada and internationally. She is also a passionate advocate for conservation, a passion that is distinctively embodied in every one of her art pieces.

Kevin Holm:

Before pursuing elected office, Kevin was best known in the community for his career as an electrician and his contracting business, Safeguard Electric. Kevin also worked at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories in Chalk River, having the responsibility, among other things, to develop the Electrical Safety Program of the plant. And while today he is being awarded the King Charles Coronation Medal, Kevin has also earned other awards and distinctions, national and international, like the Distinguished Merit Award, the 2014 Mayoral Award, and the Nationwide Electrical Safety Champion Award. Kevin, your contributions to our community have not gone unnoticed. Thank you for your continued service to our community.

Brian & Lori Hooper:

Before moving to the Valley, both Brian and Lori worked at the General Motors Plant in Oshawa. Upon their return to the Valley, however, both Brian and Lori have kept busy giving their time to the community for several causes. From volunteering their time with the Pembroke Lumber Kings, to helping at-risk children, Brian and Lori have helped youth in our community through wise mentorship and compassionate counseling. Brian and Lori: thank you for all the work you do for our youth in our area.

John Jeffrey

We are honored to recognize John Jeffrey, a founding member of the Renfrew County Chapter of the Landowners Association, a former municipal councillor for the Township of Killaloe-Hagarty-Richards, and a committed Knight of Columbus. John’s contributions to his community are matched only by his reputation for friendliness and generosity. Known for lending a helping hand to those in need, he embodies the spirit of service and kindness. Anyone who has had the fortune of encountering John will know that he lives up to the following creed: Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism. It is with great pride that we present him with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his exemplary dedication and compassion to others.

Joe Kowalski:

A true champion of the outdoors and a deserving recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal. While many in our community share a love for nature, Joe stands out for his tireless efforts to promote the wilderness and weave it into the fabric of Renfrew County’s tourism industry. As the pioneer of Whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River and owner of Wilderness Tours, he has dedicated himself to showcasing and preserving the stunning natural beauty of the Ottawa Valley. His passion and hard work have not only enriched our region, but inspired countless others to cherish the great outdoors.

Rose Leclaire

A devoted pastor, Rose Leclaire is a worthy recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal. For years, Rose has been a beacon of spiritual guidance in the Ottawa Valley, serving not only within church walls, but also by visiting homes to offer comfort and support. She has organized and led the 24-hour Bible Readings in Renfrew. Her unwavering commitment to loving thy neighbour has touched countless lives, as many in our community can attest. Through her heartfelt prayers and selfless acts of kindness, Rose has exemplified the spirit of a true Good Samaritan, bringing solace and strength to those in need.

Jason Lee:

Jason Lee is the visionary Founder and CEO of SmartCone Technologies, a company dedicated to saving lives and securing assets through innovative IoT solutions. With a mission rooted in safety and security, SmartCone has been advancing intelligent, cost-effective technologies since 2011, serving a variety of industries. Jason’s extensive career spans aviation, business intelligence, manufacturing, and software development, with notable contributions in Kuwait and Afghanistan developing smart safety for military use. His leadership has driven SmartCone to create award-winning products, transforming risks into opportunities and making the world safer. At a time of global uncertainty, it is people like Jason who make our communities (and frankly our world) a safer place to live in.

David Lemkay:

Dave Lemkay, a dedicated community leader and forestry professional, is the next recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal. With deep roots in the Ottawa Valley, tracing back to the 1820s, Dave’s remarkable 40-year career in forestry communications management spanned Canada and Europe. His early work with the Timbertown Theme Park and the Canadian Forest Service, paved the way for his extensive contributions. After retiring from the Forest Service in 2010, he led the Renfrew Industrial Commission until 2021. An active director with several local organizations, Dave’s passion for history and preservation shines through his involvement in publishing five history-related books, with his most recent title, Pines in the Sand – Roots and Branches of the Lemke Family, being published just last year. A vintage car enthusiast and community advocate, Dave and his wife Delores reside in Douglas, Ontario.

Donald Lemke:

Donald Lemke is being honored today with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his exceptional community service, particularly around firearm and safety instruction. In Renfrew County, where hunting is a cherished tradition, Donald’s dedication to educating firearm owners on safe operation and storage has been invaluable. His efforts have ensured that the legacy of responsible hunting continues to thrive in the Ottawa Valley. Through his commitment to safety, Donald has helped preserve a long-standing community tradition while fostering responsible firearm use for generations to come through his extensive involvement with the Pembroke Outdoor Sportsman’s Club. His work exemplifies a deep commitment to both his community and our heritage.

Ranjith Mathew:

Ranjith Mathew is being awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his outstanding community service, focusing on supporting diverse individuals, including new immigrants, recent graduates, and job seekers. Through various initiatives, he has played a key role in helping former Canadian Armed Forces members transition into civilian careers. Actively involved in youth leadership programs and nonprofit organizations, he serves as both a mentor and board member, guiding individuals toward success. Driven by his personal creed of helping at least one person a day, Ranjith has made a lasting impact on the future generation of Canadian workers. 

Jody McDonald:

Jody McDonald is a tireless advocate for mental health, creating impactful curricula like “Who I Am” (JK-Grade 12), the faith-based J.O.Y Project, and “Empowering Religious Educators” for adult training. She’s written extensively on faith and wellness while championing her Petawawa community as a fifth-generation resident. Jody secured a crosswalk tribute to CAF members, ran for Town Councillor (2003) and Mayor (2022), and shared local history through Heritage Corner with Jody Anne. Currently, she serves as a Board Director at the Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre, President of the Catholic Women’s League, and volunteers across numerous parish roles. Over 30 years, Jody’s volunteered with over 30 organizations, embodying service and dedication.

Jamie McRae:

Jamie McRae is being recognized with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his outstanding contributions to the timber industry. As the leader of McRae Lumber, located just outside of Algonquin Park in the Town of Whitney, Jamie continues the legacy of manufacturing high-quality hardwood and softwood products, a tradition dating back to 1885.  Fun fact: if you are a basketball fan, and follow the NBA, then you’ve seen some of his work. Most of the courts have lumber sawed at his mill! His commitment to sustainable forestry practices ensures the longevity of the lumber industry, just as his family before him has done for generations. Recently elected Chair of the Ontario Forest Industries Association, Jamie’s leadership is making a lasting impact on Renfrew County and Ontario’s forestry sector.

Blanche Mirault-Ducey:

Blanche Mirault-Ducey is being honored with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her selfless community service in Pembroke. As the founder of the nonprofit store Got You in Mind, Blanche has been a lifeline for many in need, offering clothes, housewares, and more, all donated by generous community members. Known for her compassion, she initiated a winter coat rack on the sidewalk, allowing anyone in need to take a coat. A strong supporter of the Robbie Dean Family Counselling Centre, Blanche’s efforts have earned her the Community Builder Award from United Way East Ontario. She is truly regarded for her kindness and heart of gold.

Ann McIntyre:

Ann McIntyre is being honored with the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of her outstanding efforts in safeguarding Petawawa’s cultural heritage. As the founder and former President of Petawawa’s Heritage Society, Ann played a pivotal role in establishing the Heritage Village, which stands as one of Petawawa’s most valued cultural sites. Her unwavering commitment to the preservation of this historical landmark, along with her initiatives to promote awareness of local history, has significantly contributed to attracting visitors to the town and ensuring that a vital aspect of the region’s heritage is accessible for future generations. Beyond her preservation work, Ann actively engages with local charities, reflecting her profound dedication to both heritage and community service. We extend our gratitude to Ann for her remarkable contributions and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.

Scott Murray:

Scott Murray is being honored with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his exceptional achievements in marksmanship and his dedication to firearms safety. One of the top 10 riflemen of his generation, Scott has qualified for 31 Bisley Teams and competed at Bisley for 30 consecutive years. A distinguished marksman, he has won the Canadian Fullbore Rifle Championship and earned numerous top finishes, including winning the Governor General’s Prize in 1994. He has also qualified for the Queen’s Prize Final 13 times. Outside of competition, Scott serves as a firearms instructor committed to promoting responsible firearm ownership.

Chief Michael Nolan:

Michael Nolan, Director of Emergency Services and Chief of the County of Renfrew Paramedic Service, is a trail blazer in search and rescue. Recognized nationally for his remarkable contributions, Chief Nolan has been a tireless advocate for advancing paramedicine, particularly in our rural communities here in Renfrew County. Chief Nolan’s dedication led to innovative programs such as the Renfrew County Virtual Triage & Assessment Centre (RCVTAC) and the Community Paramedic home visit program. Honored with the Premier’s Award in November 2021, Chief Nolan’s impact extends beyond local borders, including his vital role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic. More recently, and indeed unexpectedly, Chief Nolan also responded to the call of duty to an emergency in Toronto. While waiting for a flight at Toronto Pearson Airport, Chief Nolan saw the plane crash that many of us saw with horror on the news 2 weeks ago, and swiftly offered to help. It is true what they say, not all heroes wear capes. And so, it is quite fitting that Chief Nolan is one of the King Charles III Coronation Medal recipients we are celebrating here today.

Thomas Orr:

Thomas Orr is a distinguished individual whose career spans over 35 years in the construction, property development, and property management industries. Tom’s journey began with founding and running his own construction company, where he led a host of projects before turning to property management in 2016. Today, he manages an impressive portfolio, including multi-unit apartments, an Ottawa River Subdivision, and a 60-site RV Resort, all while co-owning the Antrim Truck Centre with his daughter. Tom’s past achievements are equally remarkable, from developing subdivisions and contributing to major infrastructure projects to building a concrete plant that was later acquired by a North American company. Outside of his professional success, Tom is also deeply involved in local philanthropy, often dedicating time to community work behind the scenes when his busy schedule allows it. For his outstanding contributions, Tom is receiving the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal.

Loretta Rice:

Loretta is a passionate advocate for the preservation of family farms, agricultural stewardship, and traditional farming practices here in Renfrew County. With a deep commitment to sustainable farming, Loretta works tirelessly to ensure that farming remains a respected and viable way of life for future generations. Farmers and the agricultural industry are at the heart of the Ottawa Valley’s culture and tradition, shaping not only our landscape but also our community’s identity. Through her dedication and unwavering efforts, Loretta continues to champion the family farm and its crucial role in both our region’s legacy and future

John Robertson:

John Robertson, General Manager of ETM Industries, has made a lasting impact on both Renfrew’s economy and its community. Under his leadership, ETM Industries has grown into a key player in a wide range of sectors, providing CNC machined and plastic injection precision components for industries including aerospace, military, automotive, mining, telecommunications, and medical. John’s commitment to technological advancement and his visionary leadership have helped ETM thrive. Notably, when Arnprior Aerospace closed its doors recently, John worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure that its skilled workforce found new opportunities at ETM, reinforcing his dedication to both innovation and community well-being. Most of all, John is keenly aware of the value of people and the importance of meaningful employment for area residents. He continues to grow opportunities for many citizens to make a good life for their families.

Evelyn St. Amour:

Evelyn St. Amour is being awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of her outstanding community service across a variety of local organizations. With a passion for conservation, Evelyn has dedicated her time and efforts to groups such as horticultural societies, the Ottawa Valley River Keepers, and local historical organizations. Her unwavering devotion to preserving the natural beauty of the Ottawa Valley, often described as our region’s crown jewel, has made her an integral part of the Valley’s community of volunteers. Evelyn’s deep care for her community and the environment makes her a truly deserving recipient of this honor.

Glenn Wallace:

Glenn Wallace, a dedicated teacher at Arnprior District High School (ADHS), is being awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for his exceptional contributions both in the classroom and beyond. Known for his commitment to helping youth excel academically and in extracurricular activities, Glenn is also a passionate outdoorsman. His heroism was on full display on October 10, 2020, when he was involved in a dramatic rescue on Opeongo Lake in Algonquin Park. Despite harsh weather conditions, Glenn rescued two individuals from the frigid waters, though tragically, one victim did not survive. His swift actions, intuition, and selfless dedication saved lives, making him a true hero and a deserving recipient of this prestigious honor.

Joshua Woermke:

Josh is being awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of his steadfast dedication to his community. Josh has volunteered his time and energy across Pembroke and Petawawa, lending a hand to a variety of local organizations, including the Pembroke Lumber Kings and the Pembroke Fire Department, where he brought joy to many as Sparky the Fire Dog costume at local events. Known for his warm personality and willingness to help others, Josh’s infectious enthusiasm and affection have given those who meet him great joy. His selflessness and dedication to his community make him a truly deserving recipient of this honor.