Second World War veteran and local historian John Walsh has been named Wellington North’s 2016 Senior of the Year.
In the packed council chamber on June 6, Walsh received a standing ovation after being recognized for his “outstanding contribution” to the community after the age of 65.
“He is one of the best known citizens in our community and particularly recognized for his contributions to local life,” said Wellington North Mayor Andy Lennox.
The Ontario Ministry of Citizenship, Immigration and International Trade made a call for nominations earlier this year. The annual award, established in 1994, seeks nominations from each municipality to honour one outstanding local senior who, after the age of 65, has enriched the social, cultural or civic life in his or her community.
The Wellington North Cultural Roundtable decided Walsh was the perfect fit.
Walsh was one of 333 Arthur residents who enlisted in WWII. He served in the Royal Canadian Navy on the HMCS Wallaceburg as part of the anti-submarine detection investigation committee.
After the war, Walsh became a pharmacist and opened a pharmacy in downtown Arthur. The store was expanded into Mount Forest in 2014.
“John’s achievements are too numerous to mention,” said Lennox. The mayor however did list a few of the notable achievements, such as Walsh’s dedication in spearheading the move to design a plaque honouring the women who funded the cenotaph in Arthur.
Lennox went on to say Walsh was instrumental in raising money for restorations of the stone work on that monument, organizing the restoration of the plaque bearing veterans’ names and providing historical information at the cenotaph park during Doors Open Wellington North
He is also the founder and first president of the Arthur and Area Historical Society.
Walsh has written three volumes of local history, which made over $14,000 – all of which has been donated to the Arthur and Area Historical Society, said Lennox.
Walsh has also provided tours – many for students – of the historical society’s headquarters.
