One of Joyce Willick's favourite pastimes when she's not busy helping out her community. (Facebook)

By Nigel Maxwell

Outstanding people

Spiritwood woman to receive volunteer medal

Mar 26, 2022 | 8:00 AM

A woman who has driven the zamboni at the Spiritwood and District Rec Centre arena for over 30 years is being recognized for her dedication to the community.

Joyce Willick turns 85 next month and has been named one of nine recipients of Saskatchewan’s Volunteer Medal. She told paNOW she’s overwhelmed by the honour.

“It’s not something you set out to do and it just blew me away. I thought it was a scam,” she said.

In addition to her duties at the arena, Willick is also an honorary life member of the Spiritwood skating club, and has also been involved in both hockey and softball.

“In a small town everybody kinda gets involved and our seven kids were so involved in all those sports too,” she said, adding she has enjoyed watching generations of children pass through the various programs.

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Willick is also very active with the local seniors group, has helped out the Spiritwood tourist booth, and is an active member of her church.

A picture of Wilick with the local Timberwolves team. (Facebook)

The award ceremony, which will coincides with National Volunteer Week, takes place on April 26 at Government House in Regina. Despite some initial reservations about travelling alone down to the province’s capital city, Willick said three of her children have since offered to join her.

“I find it all just really humbling,” she said.

All nine recipients were announced Friday by Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty.

“The 2021 recipients of the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal have given their time and effort to organizations and communities across our province,” Mirasty said. “I congratulate them on this well-deserved honour and thank them for their remarkable contributions to the people of Saskatchewan.”

The other recipients are:

• Noela Bamford, Regina
• Bob Bjarnason, Churchbridge
• Velma Harasen, Regina
• Major (Ret’d) Keith Inches, CD, Regina
• Ishita Mann, Saskatoon
• Captain (Ret’d) Cathy Sarich, CD, Saskatoon
• Bob White, Rosetown
• Elaine Wirtz, Wadena

The Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal was established in 1995 to recognize the extraordinary work done by volunteers across the province. Since its creation, the Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal has been awarded to 240 deserving individuals.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell