The Town of Sundre should take measures to recognize a local pioneer who will soon reach the centenarian milestone, a councillor suggested recently.
Following a recent discussion with a customer at his restaurant, Chris Vardas told his colleagues during the Feb. 13 meeting that the subject of John Whitesell Sr., who will be turning 100 in April, came up.
"I wanted to know if there's anything we could do," the councillor and local businessman said.
"I'd like to try to celebrate his birthday with him. Canada's 150 years old. John Whitesell is 100. So I can imagine what he's seen in his life."
Vardas said the stories he has heard throughout his 26 years in Sundre have described Whitesell, who "worked endlessly over at the museum," as a dedicated community-oriented individual.
"The love he's got for this town and Alberta, it's unbelievable. So maybe we can put something in motion to make his year ó make his 100 years!"
To that end, perhaps arranging some kind of special function to honour Whitesell's life as well as his contributions to the community is in order, he said.
"My heart opens up when I hear that he's having his 100th birthday. Council and the Town of Sundre should do something for him to show our appreciation."
Coun. Myron Thompson seconded Vardas's proposal.
"I've known John for 50 years," he said, adding Whitesell has done a "phenomenal amount of work" for the Sundre and District Historical Society.
"There's nothing wrong with honouring a person who's put 100 years of hard work into the community," said Thompson.
Mayor Terry Leslie suggested further discussing possible ideas with members of council, including inviting Whitesell to a council meeting for a formal recognition as well.
But Vardas said he was more interested in organizing a bigger event that could perhaps include a feature slideshow of pictures from Whitesell's past at a venue residents could attend.
"I want to do a big function, and I'll pay for the hall ó I don't care. I hope we have more people reach these goals, and you should celebrate their lives."
The councillor agreed Whitesell could be invited to a council meeting in an official capacity, but urged his colleagues to consider organizing a day of celebration with his friends and family.
"Something that he's recognized and surrounded by people who love him and appreciate him."
Thompson volunteered to help Vardas begin preparing arrangements to celebrate Whitesell's 100th birthday.
Vardas told the Round Up efforts are being planned in collaboration with the Sundre and District Historical Society.
Whitesell's actual birthday is on April 2, and the celebration is scheduled at the museum for April 1.
