Former City of Powell River mayor and coroner Stewart Alsgard was honoured with a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal at a ceremony held in his honour on January 26.
Nicholas Simons, MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast, awarded Alsgard with the medal for his community service.
The ceremony was held at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 164, and attended by almost 70 of Alsgard’s friends and supporters.
Upon receiving the award Alsgard thanked everyone in the room and said that the award was really for the community. “I’m wearing it,” said Alsgard, “but I’m thinking it belongs to all of you.”
Alsgard, a four-term mayor of Powell River, held the office for 12 years after being elected in 1999. He was coroner of Powell River for 15 years and served in the Canadian navy for 28 years.
Simons introduced Alsgard by highlighting the ways in which he enriched the community. “He initiated the community accord and he was instrumental in ensuring there was a protocol in culture, heritage and economic development with Sliammon First Nation, our neighbours,” he said.
Simons focused in on Alsgard’s years as coroner. “Speaking for those who could not speak for themselves,” said Simons, “I think that exemplifies what your service to our community has been. Of a grace under pressure, a compartment beyond reproach, leading by example and serving your community in such a strong and remarkable way.”
After receiving the award, several supporters spoke about working with Alsgard over the years. Malonie Shaffer, who worked for Alsgard at city hall, called him, “a pillar of the community,” “an ambassador” and “a man of great integrity.”
Frank Greenwood, retired Naval officer, said he was happy to acknowledge how Alsgard changed his life and his family’s life getting him involved in the cadet movement, with his talent for, “press-ganging.”
Former Tla’Amin (Sliammon) First Nation chief Walter Paul congratulated him on behalf of Tla’amin. “I really want to thank you for all your hard work to bring our communities together,” said Paul.
Staff Sergeant Andy Brinton spoke on behalf of Powell River RCMP and said that Alsgard brought “a human aspect to the table” in his time as coroner.
Mayor Dave Formosa shared his story of how Alsgard approached Sliammon with funding to build the seawalk which he said was the first step to building a bridge between the communities.
The commemorative medal was created to mark the 60th anniversary of the accession to the throne of Queen Elizabeth II.
Sixty thousand jubilee medals are being distributed by the Governor General’s office to selected Canadians who have made a noteworthy contribution to their community, town, region, province or country.
