Gary Will is the 2016 Puslinch Volunteer of the Year.
Will was presented the award in front of a packed municipal chamber on April 20.
Mayor Dennis Lever said it gave him great pleasure to make the announcement.
“Gary is a friend of mine and we’ve worked together on a number of Optimist events,” said Lever. “You really get to know someone when you are working in the kitchen with them at the community centre.
“Gary has worked very hard and is absolutely reliable and dependable.”
Will has been involved in Puslinch community service for a number of years “and has become a familiar face to us in the community,” Lever said.
Will is an active member of the Puslinch Optimist Club and rarely misses an opportunity to help out at events.
He is also often seen driving his van filled with wheelchair equipment, walkers etc. and helps the Puslinch Loan Cupboard by personally delivering this equipment to residents in need, Lever explained.
“He is a devoted member of Duff’s Church and has made great contributions. On behalf of the Township of Puslinch, we extend our gratitude for your great efforts and the services you provide to enrich our community.”
In a nomination letter from Susan Fielding and Patricia Ganning, Will is described as “a proud permanent resident of Puslinch since 2005.”
Will began visiting Aberfoyle frequently in 1977 with his family and they would become regular weekenders to Mini Lakes for years.
“Gary was educated in Hamilton … Soon after the death of Gary’s father, he and his mother Pat, decided to relocate permanently to Puslinch to their home at Mini Lakes, Aberfoyle.
“Feeling warmly embraced and accepted by the residents of Puslinch, Gary began volunteering and performing outstanding public service and he soon became a familiar face to all in the community.”
Will has been recognized by the Red Cross for donating over 100 pints of blood.
He marked this special achievement by having a blood drop inscribed with “100” tattooed on his arm.
He will soon be hitting the 150 pint donation level.
