Ten residents from the Borderland constituency were presented with the Queen's Platinum Jubliee Medal at a ceremony Monday at the Manitoba Legislature.
The medal was personally reviewed and approved by Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. 1,000 medals were struck, celebrating Her Late Majesty’s 70 years as sovereign (1952-2022). They are awarded to Manitobans from all walks of life who have made a contribution to society.
The following is the list of Borderland recipients, nominated by MLA Josh Guenter.
Perry Batchelor, for his 17 years of service in Canada’s Armed Forces, and 25 subsequent years with the Altona Police Service including 12 as police chief. Perry’s leadership has provided important support to local organizations and events, such as YFC Altona and the annual local Remembrance Day ceremonies.
Dave Carlson, for his advocacy for the communities of Emerson-Franklin, including revitalizing economic development and providing supports for seniors in the area.
Cheryl Harder, owner of Dustyridge Equine Centre, Cheryl has been involved in many causes, including her local 4-H, church and youth groups. She uses her horses to connect with and help children and youth who are struggling, and provides an outlet for families and children to enjoy time together through a kids camp, a petting zoo and trail rides.
Bill Klassen, owner of Bill Klassen Auctions Ltd. with over 50 years of experience. Bill is a southern Manitoba icon who is a respected citizen and a positive presence in the community.
Paul Peters, for his kind and generous spirit, and service to the region including over two decades as councillor in Rhineland and leadership in organizations such as the Pembina Valley Water Coop and Winkler and District Healthcare Board.
June Letkeman, a cheerful and tireless volunteer, June is a champion of her community of Plum Coulee and many important causes throughout the region, including the Boundary Trails Health Centre Foundation and service as a municipal councillor.
Kathy Hildebrand, for her decades of service assisting immigrant families in accessing supports and resources, and providing important advocacy for homeschool families.
Paul Maendel, a member of HEART Team a non-profit, professional dive team from Oak Bluff Hutterite Colony that recovers drowning victims. Paul receives this medal on behalf of the team in recognition of their selfless service for others, and being a light at a difficult time in the lives of families who have lost loved ones.
Keesy Rodewald, a force of energy and optimism, Keesy is a community organizer and volunteer who brings families and her community together through organizing local events, projects and celebrations. Her efforts have helped advance many local projects and offerings, and her volunteerism has set a standard for service for others.
Mark Wilson, for over two decades of service to our country in Canada’s Armed Forces, including tours of duty in Afghanistan in 2007 and Iraq in 2017. Mark is a high school teacher at Garden Valley Collegiate in Winkler.