MP Todd Doherty presented formal recognition from King Charles III to people from Prince George who have done good work for their community and for the country on Sunday, March 9.
The ceremony was held at the Courtyard by Marriott hotel. Similar presentations have been held across Canada,
The King Charles III Coronation Medal commemorates the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III as King of Canada.
Administered by the Chancellery of Honours at Rideau Hall, the medal honours those who have made significant contributions to Canada or have achieved outstanding accomplishments that bring credit to the country.
Recipients
This is a list of Prince George recipients, along with the remarks Doherty delivered at the presentation.
Ellen (Honey) Alexander Affleck
Honey’s extensive volunteer history includes time with the Royal Canadian Legion in Quesnel, fundraising for the Anglican Church Parish Council, the Better at Home program (in-home help for seniors), and more.
She is the president of the Friends of the Quesnel Museum, chair of the Museum Commission, a member of the Wells Historical Society, a director for the North Cariboo Seniors Council, and a Quesnel School District trustee.
Honey has also been awarded the Order of Eastern Star as a worthy matron three times.
Renzo Berra
Renzo is the founder of the Prince George Secondary School hockey program, which provides opportunities for vulnerable, at-risk, and special-needs students to be part of a larger community and develop skills to become active, contributing members of society.
He secured ongoing sponsorship from the NHL Players’ Association for students who didn’t have equipment and obtained funding and maintenance from generous community members for three buses to transport students to and from the rink.
Renzo also started and coordinated SAT exams for Prince George students wanting to attend university in the U.S., eliminating the need for them to travel far from home.
Renzo has been a dedicated hockey coach at all levels, from minor hockey to the BCHL, as well as in school sports such as tennis, soccer, and hockey.
John Brink
John A. Brink is a trailblazing Canadian entrepreneur and business leader whose career exemplifies resilience, innovation, and determination.
As the founder and CEO of Brink Group of Companies, which is celebrating its 50th year in operation, John has revolutionized the wood remanufacturing sector with his commitment to quality and sustainability.
Beyond his business acumen, John is a devoted philanthropist and champion of community engagement.
Whether advancing sustainable forestry practices or inspiring the next generation, John continues to leave an enduring impact on Canada’s business landscape.
Roy Lloyd Call
For 40 years, Roy was involved in British Columbia as a rodeo stock contractor. His lengthy commitment to promoting the western way of life and improving the skills of young rodeo contestants was a driving force in his life.
His business helped new rodeos get started, allowing the sport and lifestyle to be seen in non-traditional markets. Roy was a founding member of the Williams Lake indoor rodeo and helped plan and produce rodeos across the province, from Fort Nelson to Victoria and from Kitimat to Cranbrook.
Roy also coached minor hockey for over 20 years, with his most cherished moment being a provincial championship on home ice with his daughter’s U-18 team. Sports remain a central part of Roy’s family, and he will continue working to make his community one of the best places to live in Canada.
Terry Capnerhurst
Terry is one of the longest-serving volunteers with the 108 Mile Volunteer Fire Department, with 38 years of dedicated service to the community.
During the wildfires of 2017, when the 108 community was evacuated, Terry remained behind to help fellow volunteers protect the community, demonstrating his leadership and commitment.
His eight years as a leader with the Junior Forest Wardens showed his dedication to youth development and set an example for them as they grew into responsible adults.
Terry is a tireless volunteer in the 108 community, working to make it a better place to live, work, and play.
Katherine Carlson
Katherine volunteers as the Team Rubicon Canada membership lead for Northern B.C. and has provided support for COVID relief in Thunder Bay, Ont., assisted with flood resilience for communities in Canim Lake and McBride, B.C., and conducted recon support after the wildfires in Lytton, B.C.
She provides support for the B.C. Heritage Emergency Response Network with the Prince George Nechako Rotary Club. Katherine was recently nominated to the executive of the Prince George Royal Canadian Legion Chapter 43 and sits on the Remembrance Day Ceremony planning committee, coordinating traffic management and safety during Remembrance Day ceremonies in Prince George.
Scott James Casey
Scott Casey served with the Canadian Armed Forces from 1986 to 1994, including participating in the overseas peacekeeping mission Operation Harmony in the former Yugoslavia.
For more than 25 years, he has advocated for mental wellness in military, veteran, and first responder communities across Canada, providing insight, guidance, and forward-thinking support through peer support, speaking engagements, and organizing international and national not-for-profits.
Scott founded The Rolling Barrage PTSD Foundation, a cross-Canada event that raises awareness of mental health issues among serving CAF members, veterans, first responders, and their families. The foundation has been operating successfully for eight years.
Carrie Chard
Carrie is a dedicated volunteer with the Barkerville Heritage Trust, currently serving as the general manager of the historic town of Barkerville.
During the 2024 wildfires that threatened the town, Carrie remained behind, risking her safety to help save Barkerville. She stood her ground and provided leadership to the firefighters battling the flames.
Carrie also volunteers with the local Friends of Barkerville, is a volunteer firefighter in Barkerville, and served as fire chief of the nearby community of Wells for many years.
Michael Davis
Over the years, Mike has held many roles, each marked by a commitment to making a positive impact in the community.
As one of the first basketball alumni of UNBC, Mike has supported UNBC athletics for 20 years, providing funding to student-athletes and ensuring they have the resources to excel both academically and athletically.
Mike has also raised awareness and support for mental health challenges. As regional vice president of ICBA, he champions programs that offer construction and industry workers access to mental health resources, making a tangible difference in their lives.
Mike is also a successful small business entrepreneur, having built a thriving business with his wife by investing in their local community.
Eric Depenau
Unfortunately, Eric was unable to join us today, but his wife, Leila, and daughter, Amora, are here to accept the award on his behalf.
In his civilian career, Eric is a director with the City of Prince George, providing leadership in fire protection, emergency management, police support services, bylaw enforcement, communications, and intergovernmental relations.
Eric served in the Army Reserve for nearly 12 years, earning distinction as the top candidate during his infantry officer trade training.
A highlight of Eric’s time in uniform was representing Canada during the 2017 Centennial Commemoration of Vimy Ridge, where he was inspected by King Charles as one of 300 soldiers chosen to participate in the ceremonies in France.
Eric continues his service and is attending military training in Alberta.
Joseph Thomas Boyle Elliott
Joe is a Royal Navy veteran who was a driving force behind the national "Buddy Check" coffee program, providing peer support and networking among veterans across Canada.
He is also a Canadian Ranger and member of Team Rubicon Canada.
Joe is the recipient of several medals and awards, including the General Service Medal during the Gulf War, the Operational Service Medal for service in Sierra Leone, and the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal.
Donna Flood
Donna Flood is a distinguished healthcare leader with over 40 years of experience and has made a global impact. She worked with Mother Teresa's hospice in Calcutta and addressed healthcare challenges as director of care in Nunavut.
Donna has been instrumental in enhancing hospice palliative care in Prince George and the North, increasing the capacity of the Rotary Hospice House and creating a centre of excellence where staff are trained to be experts in palliative care.
Her four-decade journey reflects enduring passion and profound impact, inspiring healthcare excellence and compassion.
In Prince George, Donna is also vice-president and director for the Chamber of Commerce and recently volunteered as the director of volunteers for the Special Olympics.
Jim Good
One of Canada’s original naturalists, Jim Good has been developing Goodsir Nature Park for 35 years. A designated Canadian botanical conservatory, Goodsir offers 160 acres of plant exploration, featuring a national collection of species.
Devoted to conservation, Jim single-handedly built Goodsir Nature Park as a hobby nature park, funding it while raising a family on a modest salary.
This enormous effort has made Goodsir an educational hub in his community and one of the most remarkable botanical parks in the world.
Steve Hamilton
Among his many accomplishments, Steve began the Spruce City Wildlife Association Revitalization. He started as a volunteer before working his way up to director, after which he served three full terms as president.
When he became a director, SCWA had 30 members. When he stepped back from his position in December 2021, membership had grown to over 200 and was still increasing.
Steve has volunteered hundreds, if not thousands, of hours each year to improve fish, wildlife, and habitat in the area. He is also known for his conservation work with Backcountry Clean Ups, which turned into a province-wide movement.
In the Prince George area alone, the initiative has removed over 100,000 kilograms of garbage, more than a dozen vehicles, and thousands of pounds of recyclables.
In 2023, Steve was awarded the Prince George Citizen of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award.
Mike Hawes
Currently, and for the past 20 seasons, Mike has served as the general manager for the community-owned junior hockey team.
He also recently retired after 33 years of service with the B.C. provincial government, where he worked as a youth supervisor in Youth Corrections with the Ministry of Children and Family Development.
Logan Hedstrom
Logan Hedstrom is a Canadian Armed Forces veteran.
He volunteered with veterans in the hospital and with multiple veteran advocacy groups, including OIS and Buddy Check Coffee, providing support for veterans in need.
He is also a member of Team Rubicon, which supports the veteran community.
Alexander Huber
Alexander’s family immigrated to Canada in 1982 when he was a young boy. Much of his life was spent in agriculture, working as a dairy herdsperson and operating equipment.
Starting in 2001, he began volunteering at federal, provincial, and municipal elections, serving as a director and coordinating campaign signs. He continues to be active in this role today and is proud of being part of the democratic process.
For six years, he volunteered as president of the local Agricultural and Heritage Society, which hosts one of the largest agricultural fairs in B.C., the British Columbia Northern Exhibition.
His greatest achievements are his wife and three children, who live in the greatest country in the world.
Judy Jackson
Judy Jackson has dedicated more than 50 years to her community. Her energy is contagious, and her loyalty is unquestionable.
The Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation, the Prince George Community Foundation, the Chamber of Commerce, and the College of New Caledonia have all been profoundly impacted by Judy’s association and leadership.
She is respected for her keen intuition on what will move the community forward and the best way to get there.
Liz Jones
During the 2010 fire season in the Cariboo Regional District, Liz was a tireless volunteer with the Cariboo Regional District's Emergency Social Services group.
Not only does Liz volunteer in this group, but she also acts as a leader, mentor, recruiter, and trainer for the many volunteers required to assist in emergencies.
During the devastating 2017 fires in the Cariboo, Liz once again led the Cariboo Regional District’s ESS group. For her outstanding efforts during these fires, Liz was awarded the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers in 2018.
Liz continues to be a dedicated volunteer in her home community of the 108 Mile Ranch, which recently recognized her as its Citizen of the Year. She remains in her role as the ESS coordinator, providing support for victims of flooding and fire year-round.
Larry Knutsen
Larry is a dedicated community volunteer in his community of 108 Mile Ranch. He has volunteered in nearly every organization, from Junior Forest Wardens (where he was a leader for eight years) to the local community association and the 108 Volunteer Fire Department.
With 38 years of service with the 108 Volunteer Fire Department, he is one of the two longest-serving members of the department.
During the wildfires of 2017, the 108 community was evacuated, but Larry stayed behind to defend it from the advancing fire. A true community volunteer, Larry continues to be involved, helping others and doing whatever he can to improve their lives.
Soraya Litke
Soraya immigrated to Canada with her parents when she was only two years old. In her career, she has served as a dedicated constituency assistant for two Members of Parliament in the Cariboo—Prince George region for nearly 20 years.
Throughout this time, she has been driven by a passion for advocating on behalf of the people in her community. Her particular passion lies in matters of immigration. She has worked tirelessly to ensure that those seeking to build a new life in Canada are met with compassion, opportunity, and support.
Over the years, Soraya has served as a board member for the British Columbia National Exhibition (BCNE) and has assisted in organizing charity golf tournaments to support the local Special Olympics team in Prince George. Currently, she sits on the board of Prince George for Ukraine, a group focused on providing critical support during times of need.
Jennifer MacGillivray
Jennifer championed Canada’s first Critical Incident Response Program (CIRP) for flight attendants, setting a new standard for workplace mental health in aviation.
Designed to address the unique challenges of high-stress and traumatic events, the program offers timely support through a peer-based model. Specially trained flight attendants provide confidential assistance, fostering trust, reducing stigma, and empowering colleagues.
Through her advocacy for mental health in the aviation industry, the program supports initiatives to promote mental health awareness, stress management tools, and employee assistance programs, driving a cultural shift toward prioritizing employee well-being.
This innovative program is a model for fostering resilience and compassion, prioritizing mental health in the aviation industry.
Scott McWalter
Scott McWalter, based in Prince George, B.C., is a distinguished two-time graduate of the University of Northern British Columbia.
Known for his unwavering dedication to community service, Scott has played a pivotal role in raising millions of dollars by volunteering his time to support non-profit organizations, special causes, fundraising events, and other community initiatives.
His tireless efforts and passion for philanthropy have made him an inspiring force for positive change in his community and beyond.
Kathy Nadalin-Pauley
For the past 15 years, Kathy has served as a director and volunteer on the TELUS Community Connections Volunteer Society Board.
She volunteers approximately 720 hours per year for Bernie Gould at St. Vincent De Paul Society in Prince George, baking for their Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas “feed the homeless” dinners.
She regularly crochets items for fundraisers at the Kordyban Cancer Lodge and donates crochet items to the hospital auxiliary.
She volunteers by teaching a weekly line dance class for seniors and singing in a volunteer seniors’ choir that raises funds through music productions to cover expenses for senior centre operations.
Among many other charitable causes, Kathy has also written two books with short biographies of 250 seniors and donated all the proceeds to the Prince George Community Foundation.
Doherty also had a special message to deliver to Kathy:
“We are so proud of our passionately feisty, generous, and loving Grandma Kathy. She is a proactive, determined, and diligent community leader, the author of books, and is fearless about doing the right thing and giving everything she does her best effort! She, along with her husband Lino, are always welcoming and accepting, non-judgmental, and so much fun to be around!
Thank you for recognizing her many efforts locally, provincially, and federally. She is so deserving of this prestigious award, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, as authorized by the Governor General of Canada!
With tremendous love from your great-granddaughter, Eve, grandkids Steven and Lisa, as well as Andy and Cathy Cole (who all took part in a brainstorming session to come up with 'the words you would use to describe Grandma Kathy' for this family tribute!)”
Carey Price
Many of you probably know Carey for his incredible NHL career with the Montreal Canadiens, but he’s much more than that; he’s one of the most powerful voices for mental health in Canada.
Both during and after his NHL career, he bravely opened up about his own struggles, showing others that seeking help is a sign of strength. Through the Carey and Angela Price Foundation, he supports Indigenous youth and underserved communities, focusing on mental wellness and education.
He has also worked closely with Kids Help Phone and other initiatives to ensure people get the support they need.
Carey’s greatest legacy isn’t just his achievements on the ice — it’s his philanthropy and his unwavering courage to speak up, break the stigma, and remind others that they’re not alone.
Allan Frederick Richmond
Allan is a recipient of the B.C. Tel Leadership Award in 1995 and 1996, and the B.C. Tel Brian Canfield Distinctive Leadership Award in 1996.
Also in 1996, Allan was the recipient of the GTE Corporation’s Distinguished Achievement Award.
He was awarded 108 Mile Ranch Citizen of the Year in 1994 and won the 108 Mile Ranch Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021.
Wayne G. Salewski
Wayne has a distinguished career of public service, working 30 years with the Ministry of Forests.
During his time with the Provincial Wildland Fire Services, he fought fires across B.C. and Canada.
Moreover, he has spearheaded conservation and sustainability projects provincially for the past 50 years.
Wayne has also served on a number of community boards and societies, including the Nechako-Kitamaat Development Fund Society, the Nechako White Sturgeon Community Working Group, the Nechako Environment and Water Stewardship Society, the B.C. Wildlife Federation, the Artemis Gold Blackwater Project, and many more.
His work has been recognized with several awards, such as the B.C. Forest Service Protection Branch Directors Award for Mentorship and the B.C. Interior Stewardship Award for Ecosystem Excellence.
Rajinder Singh Sidhu
Rajinder moved to Prince George in 1995 with his family and served in the RCMP until his retirement in 2020 at the rank of staff sergeant.
He noticed that first-generation Sikhs from Punjab were facing significant barriers and challenges in communicating with their children, as well as an increase in gang violence and crime in Indo-Canadian youth.
To address these issues, Rajinder provided guidance and education to parents and encouraged the Sikh community to become involved in community volunteer programs such as the Canadian Diabetes Association and Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
Since retiring from the RCMP, Rajinder has dedicated his spare time to learning more about post-traumatic stress disorder and helping current and former members of the RCMP advocate for their mental health.
Lawrence Alan Sivell
Lawrence was a volunteer leader for six years across Canada, the U.S., and the Bahamas with the disaster relief NGO Team Rubicon Canada.
He has deployed to relief efforts for Hurricane Dorian in 2019 in The Bahamas, as well as recent fires in Jasper, Alberta.
He joined the Canadian Rangers in 2023 and is an active member of Buddy Check Coffee, a veteran awareness program.
Trevor Blair Sprague
Trevor has been coaching in the hockey community since he was 16, for more than 30 years. For the past 15 years, he has worked with teams in the BCEHL, coaching, mentoring, and managing players and staff.
He is proud of the programs he has helped create and believes that supporting young athletes in all areas of their lives — physical health, mental health, and education — has helped develop great young men and women who, in turn, contribute to their communities.
Trevor couldn’t have done it without an incredibly supportive family behind him, as well as the countless volunteers who help make his programs successful.
Jim Terrion
Since 1990, Jim Terrion has tirelessly raised over $960,000 for The Terry Fox Foundation, aiming for his goal of $1 million.
Born deaf, Jim's extraordinary dedication keeps Terry Fox’s dream alive as he travels door-to-door through Northern B.C., rallying communities to support cancer research.
In 1990, Jim walked across Canada to raise funds and awareness for the deaf, covering 9,917 kilometres in an inspiring journey.
Today, he continues to champion The Terry Fox Foundation while also lending his support to various non-profit organizations in his hometown of Prince George.
Anita Wlasitz
Captain Anita Wlasitz has been an exceptional contributor to the Air Cadet program in Vanderhoof as the commanding officer of 899 Vanderhoof RCACS.
She has dedicated her time and expertise to ensuring the success of the cadet program, demonstrating a commitment far beyond what is expected of her role. Beginning as a parent volunteer, she quickly recognized the value of the program and formally joined as an officer, tirelessly supporting her squadron and the wider Northern B.C. region.
Through her professionalism, dedication, and passion for youth development, Captain Anita Wlasitz exemplifies the ideals of the Canadian Armed Forces. Her steadfast commitment, innovation, and leadership have left a lasting impact on her cadets, staff, and community, making her an exemplary candidate for this honour.
Eligibility and criteria
To be eligible, candidates must meet the following national criteria:
- Have made a significant contribution to Canada or to a specific province, territory, region, or community, or have achieved an outstanding accomplishment abroad that reflects positively on Canada.
- Be alive on May 6, 2024. The award can be presented posthumously, provided the individual was alive on that date.
In total, 30,000 medals will be awarded in the anniversary year, with 4,000 dedicated to members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).
Military selection and criteria
The military selection process is based on merit and aims to represent both Regular and Reserve Forces, including Cadet Instructors and Canadian Rangers. The focus is on lower-ranking members who are essential to the CAF's operational success as the force rebuilds.
Most medals will be awarded to non-commissioned members (NCMs) up to the rank of Petty Officer 1st Class/Warrant Officer and officers up to the rank of Lieutenant-Commander/Major.
A smaller number of medals will go to higher ranks, including Chief Petty Officer 2nd Class/Master Warrant Officer, Chief Petty Officer 1st Class/Chief Warrant Officer, and Commander/Lieutenant-Colonel. The Directorate of Honours and Recognition (DH&R) is responsible for administering the military allocation.
Public selection and criteria
Public service employees from federal departments and agencies, including the Department of National Defence (DND), will also receive medals. Nominations will follow the criteria outlined above and reflect the diversity of each department.
The Corporate Awards and Recognition Team at ADM(HR-Civ) will administer medal allocations within DND. More details on criteria and selection guidelines for DND employees can be found on the Defence Information Network (DIN) under CANFORGEN 063/24.
Design
The medal is a 32-mm circular, silver-coloured piece featuring:
- Obverse: A crowned and robed effigy of His Majesty King Charles III facing right, surrounded by the inscriptions CHARLES III DEI GRATIA REX and CANADA.
- Reverse: A frosted background of 13 triangular shapes evoking celebratory pennants, symbolizing Canada's provinces and territories. The Royal Cypher of Canada appears in the centre, with the Coronation date (6.V.2023) on the left and VIVAT REX ("Long Live The King") on the right.
A 12-mm ring passes through a small hollow ball at the top of the medal, supporting the ribbon.
Ribbon
The ribbon, 32 mm in width, consists of:
- A 5-mm red stripe in the centre
- White stripes (2 mm on each side of the red stripe)
- Dark blue stripes (9.5 mm on each side of the white stripes)
- Red edge stripes (2 mm)
The design is identical to the British Coronation Medal ribbon, which was inspired by the ribbon of King Edward VII's Coronation Medal from 1902.
Bar
There is no bar for this medal.
Wearing
The medal should be worn on the left breast, suspended from the ribbon, in accordance with the Canadian Orders, Decorations and Medals Directive. It will be positioned after the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal and before the RCMP Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.
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