Lasting legacy: two local residents honored for lifetimes of community impact

In their nomination letter, Glenn’s family noted that while his talent was extraordinary, it was his countless contributions to local and cultural scenes that truly made him worthy of the honor.

“He performed for weddings and funerals every single week for more than 60 years,” said North Battleford councillor, Rodney Fedler as he introduced Glenn’s achievements. “Ask anyone whose wedding or funeral he played at, and you’ll hear his name – sometimes unaware that their special day was graced by a world class musician.”

Myrna proudly received her husband’s award during the ceremony while surrounded by friends and family.

“Thank you for this beautiful tribute to my husband,” she said. “This is the community that encouraged him, and he had very, very fine instructors, and people here. North Battleford has always been the arts and music center, and he freely gave.”

“The only regret that I have is that he couldn’t hear these words.”

Glenn wasn’t the only community member recognized during the Order of Merit ceremony. Alongside his award was Len Taylor’s.

Taylor’s story, although also significant, was vastly different to the musician’s.

He devoted his life to public service, striving to improve the lives of people in North Battleford and throughout the province. The 74-year-old’s career spanned municipal, provincial, and federal levels of government.

“He was elected twice as a Member of Parliament for the Battlefords and Meadow Lake, serving from 1988 to 1997,” North Battleford councillor Bill Ironstand said as he introduce his friend. “In Ottawa, he was a powerful voice for rural Saskatchewan, championing the needs of farmers, families, and small communities.”

“After his time in Parliament, Len brought his expertise and passion home, serving as a member of North Battleford City Council from 2000 to 2003.”

He added this was only a few of his many contributions to government, and dedication to the community through memberships and director placements.

Taylor’s nominator was former North Battleford Mayor Ryan Bater. He served with him from 2016 to 2020. Bater explained how he was fortunate to witness Taylor’s thoughtful advocacy firsthand. Especially in areas of community development, economic opportunity, and the overall well-being of residents.

“I am deeply honored by, number one, the nomination, and number two, the award,” said Taylor.

He recalled the start of his career, beginning as a news reporter in the Battlefords.

“Not only did I go to every single council meeting and reported on it, I went to every single Chamber of Commerce meeting and reported on it. I went to every single school board meeting and reported on it. From that, I gained an understanding of how important community is.”

Taylor’s career has slowed done over the last few years, but he is still deeply involved with the community and continues to advocate for topics important to him.

Although their community involvement was different from one another, both men’s names will be noted as representatives of local excellence for years to come in the Battlefords.

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Alyssa.rudolph@pattisonmedia.com

by Alyssa Rudolph

Lasting legacy: two local residents honored for lifetimes of community impact

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