Founder of Freson Market IGA chain, Mr. Frank Lovsin was inducted as a Member of the Order of Canada on Tuesday, December 30.
Mr. Lovsin of Peace River, Alberta was one of sixty Canadians and one of three from Alberta announced to be named to the highest Canadian civilian honour. He was named as a member of the Order of Canada for his contributions as a volunteer, philanthropist and entrepreneur. He has served as a vocal advocate for his community in regional and provincial affairs.
Mr. Lovsin of Peace River, Alberta was one of sixty Canadians and one of three from Alberta announced to be named to the highest Canadian civilian honour. He was named as a member of the Order of Canada for his contributions as a volunteer, philanthropist and entrepreneur. He has served as a vocal advocate for his community in regional and provincial affairs.
He was contacted by the Governor General's office some months ago,
but didn't think too much of it. In fact, he told his wife not to
mention it to anyone in case it was a joke.
Commenting to The Mail Tuesday afternoon, Mr. Lovsin was unassuming in his words. "I never saved anyone's life. I just went to work, and felt I always had a good attitude, and that is more important than aptitude or talent."
He still loves going to work every day, and puts in a full 10 hour shift at the Peace River Supercenter.
In 1955, Lovsin and two other partners opened the original Freson Market in Hinton, Alberta. In 1962 the Downtown IGA in Peace River was built. Today there are 15 Freson Market IGA stores across Alberta, employing close to 1,000 people.
Mr. Lovsin is well known to many Drumheller residents, is still very active in the family business and visits the Drumheller store on a regular basis. He is well respected by residents and staff alike.
He will be presented with the award in a ceremony in Ottawa at a later date.
Commenting to The Mail Tuesday afternoon, Mr. Lovsin was unassuming in his words. "I never saved anyone's life. I just went to work, and felt I always had a good attitude, and that is more important than aptitude or talent."
He still loves going to work every day, and puts in a full 10 hour shift at the Peace River Supercenter.
In 1955, Lovsin and two other partners opened the original Freson Market in Hinton, Alberta. In 1962 the Downtown IGA in Peace River was built. Today there are 15 Freson Market IGA stores across Alberta, employing close to 1,000 people.
Mr. Lovsin is well known to many Drumheller residents, is still very active in the family business and visits the Drumheller store on a regular basis. He is well respected by residents and staff alike.
He will be presented with the award in a ceremony in Ottawa at a later date.