Elizabeth (Liz) McCrindle is Puslinch Township’s 2014 Senior of the Year.
The award was presented by Puslinch Mayor Dennis Lever during the June 17 council session.
Lever noted that June is Seniors’ Month in Ontario.
“Each year our council selects a senior we believe worthy because of contributions to our community,” said Lever.
The mayor then listed a number of McCrindle’s accomplishments over the years.
“Liz’s life has consistently been about giving back in some form or another – either through caring for friends and neighbours within the community or through her involvement with Teddies for Tragedies,” said Lever, who added McCrindle’s commitment is experienced by her friends on a daily basis.
“In addition, her involvement in the international Teddies organization has been recognized by many throughout Canada.
“She devotes a great deal of time to the Teddies effort, which provides a small hand-made gift to children who have suffered through various disasters around the world.”
Dr. Hendrik A. Scholtens, of Carlisle, who takes yearly mission trips to Peru, takes as many bears as he can pack, Lever said.
“The kids just love them; for some it’s the only toy they own.”
Lever added, “Puslinch is extremely fortunate to have this extraordinary woman as a resident. Her tireless energy and ability to keep giving is a tremendous example for the entire community.”
McCrindle thanked those involved in her selection but added, “I’m sure there are many people more deserving.”
She said she enjoys living in the community and pointed to her family and many friends in the audience that night.
“When we came to Canada 40 years ago, we had no family here other than our own, and no friends. But now we have all kinds of friends and I feel very happy to have them,” she said.
McCrindle’s story was featured in the Wellington Advertiser last fall.
