WESTLOCK – Westlock’s Art Avery is one of the most recent recipients of the Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal (Alberta), created by the province to mark the 70th anniversary of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s succession to the Throne as Queen of Canada.
Avery has lived in Westlock for many years, but spent more than 40 years living, working, and giving time to public service in Fort McMurray.
He was nominated for this special award by his friend and former neighbour Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche MLA Brian Jean who made a special visit to the Avery home March 9 to present him with the medal.
The award was given to Avery specifically for his time representing the region on the Northern Alberta Development Council, volunteering as a firefighter, treasurer for the Heritage Society and public library, and member of the local Kinsmen Club (a life member). He served Fort McMurray for more than 40 years and has deep roots in the community.
Pleased to have been given this special honour for the volunteer service note in the award, he was also involved in several other ventures and volunteer service along with his full-time job as a banker.
Avery still owns and rents the family farm near Abee, and upon retirement, he and his wife Sylvia moved from Fort McMurray to Westlock. He has not been idle in Westlock and is currently the president of the Pioneer Museum board of directors, a position he has held for several years.
