A local Drumheller businessman and notable volunteer was awarded one of Canada’s most distinguished awards on Saturday.
At a ceremony attended by family, friends, and Freemasons, Doug Wade was presented with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal by Kevin Sorenson, MP Crowfoot.
Wade, who was born and raised in Drumheller, was awarded for his extensive volunteer service in the community, which includes sports, theatre, the Drumheller Music Festival, and politics.
“For me, there are two categories of people I have to thank; my immediate family and also my family at Wade’s Jewellery who have supported me over the years,” said Wade. “This medal is representative of following the example of many people in Drumheller of what they achieved. They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery and I’ve had a lot of great examples here to imitate.”
The medal Wade received was one of 30 given to Sorenson to award.
“The recipients of these awards have generally done more than what one medal recognizes. As I travel around Crowfoot, the communities are what they are, because of the volunteers who help make them a better place to be. I think we can all agree Mr. Wade is one of those who helped make Drumheller a better place to be,” said Sorenson. “He sets his mind on certain things and really gets behind them.”
During the presentation Sorenson talked about his admiration for Queen Elizabeth II and his pride in Canada’s British heritage. Afterwards, he pinned the medal on Wade and shared a story of their first meeting.
“I remember running into him when I was first running. He asked me certain questions like why I felt I’d make a good MP. It wasn’t easy, but he wanted to do his research,” said Sorenson.
For Wade, the medal is a huge honour and will be something to continue to inspire him.
“I often think there are many people just as deserving of this medal and I know people who are more deserving, so I’m really going to treasure this,” said Wade. “Getting this medal is really humbling and it makes me want to do more.”
On February 23, Drumheller resident, businessman, and volunteer Doug Wade was awarded the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal at a ceremony at the Freemason’s Hall. Pictured are Stan Schumacher (left) Don Ewing, Doug Wade, wife Ann Wade, MP Crowfoot Kevin Sorenson, Bob Llewellyn, Ryan Wade, and Paula Wade.
