After recognizing Jeff and Pat Rowe for their work in the community, it wasn’t hard to choose who would be recognized for the second Similkameen Country Business Star Choice Award.
“It was an easy decision this year,” said Joan Baumann, the president of the Similkameen Country Chamber of Commerce. “We have a committee that’s been compiling names for the last year, and we were all agreed that it should go to Walter, and his wife Barbara.”
The award was given out as part of the Canada Day celebrations as it was last year. This year, the recipient couple were unable to accept the award in person, as they were away on vacation.
“Last I heard,” said Baumann, “They were in Iceland. The winners don’t know they’ve won until it’s awarded, so I’m sure they’ll be surprised when they get back. I hope they’re enjoying their vacation.”
Read More: Celebrate Canada Day in Keremeos
The Star Choice Award was created to acknowledge businesses and individuals who are active in supporting the community. The Similkameen Country Chamber of Commerce created the award to recognize businesses and individuals in the community who are out actively volunteering or supporting the region.
With the Despots on vacation, Baumann took a guess at how they might take being honoured with the award.
“I’m sure they’ll feel humbled, and happy, about the award. They’re not the type of people who go out and do things for the recognition, they do it because they really believe they can make a difference.”
In 2012, Walter received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for his work in the community and his leadership. In addition to serving as mayor of Keremeos from 2003 to 2011, Walter was a member for the fire department for 40 years, a paramedic for 22 years, and part-time coroner for 15. His work was also imported in the development of the diagnostic centre in Keremeos.
The Despots established themselves in Keremeos with their pharmacy, which they owned and operated from 1964 until 1998. Walter has also earned recognition for his work and leadership serving on the Okanagan Similkameen Regional District Board, as chair of the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation, and as chair of the Lower Similkameen Community Services Society.
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