60+ Impact Awards Celebrating Older Adults’ & Elders’ Contributions to The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo
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Photography by Bison Multimedia
Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo is home to a diverse and dynamic community where people of all ages contribute to making a positive impact every day. Their dedication and spirit shape our region into a welcoming, inclusive, and thriving place to call home.
Among these inspiring individuals, our elders and seniors play a significant role in strengthening our community. That’s why we’re thrilled to celebrate the recipients of the 2025 60+ Impact Awards!
This year, a selection committee of community members has chosen 10 outstanding individuals to be recognized. We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of Larry Dewey, Hushmukh Patel, Mike Hurlburt, Suzanne Doyle, Janice Petruk, Stephanie Burtenshaw, Philip Harvie, Nayef Muhgoub, Val and Greg Bryall.
A special thank you to our official partners of the 2025 60+ Impact Awards: G.O.A.T Mechanical Services, Advisory Committee on Aging, Alberta Health Services, Golden Years Society, and Balsom.
Greg & Val Brayall
Both were raised in rural New Brunswick on potato farms; hard work was ingrained in them from a young age, as was the deep-rooted sense of community that came with small-town life. Their parents were always involved in their church, community and local sports.
Val moved to Fort McMurray in 1979, two years after Greg had arrived.
Beginning her career as a teacher she quickly recognized the same community spirit she had known growing up.
“I had gone to a one-room schoolhouse for part of my education,” recalls Val. “When we arrived here they were building new schools and it was an exciting time with new staff and kids.”
Val recalled her first day as a teacher sub at Westview School: “There were a bunch of portables located in a field of mud, with a wooden boardwalk to the entrance.”
As their three boys grew up—now ranging in age from 31 to 40— Greg became deeply involved in their sports activities - coaching baseball and hockey. “Val volunteered in classrooms, school councils, organizing field trips and ensuring that the schools had the resources they needed,” said fellow educator Faye Durocher.
Val’s generosity extended beyond the school system. For 10 years, she was a dedicated volunteer at the Fellowship Baptist Church Soup Kitchen, serving meals to those in need.
“We would feed up to 100 people during the boom years at lunch,” recalls Val of the Wednesday group of volunteers. “That is how I was raised. You help people in your community.”
The couple has served in various Council roles at Trinity Lutheran Church. Their involvement also included maintenance of the facility which was utilized by many other community organizations such as Girl Guides and Scouts. For three years with the assistance of other members, Saturday morning was for preparing sandwiches and goodies for the Centre of Hope.
Greg has a passion for the great outdoors. Val shared her love of cross-country skiing with him which encouraged Greg to become a long-time volunteer with the Ptarmigan Ski Club.
He has dedicated over 12 years to groom and maintaining the extensive Birchwood Trails ski system.
Through Doug Barnes, the Birchwood Nordic Trail Winter Legend, and many other volunteers, Greg learned the art of trail grooming. Today he leads a team of five volunteers, logging over 400 hours annually to keep the Birchwood Trails in pristine condition.
“It is a group effort,” says Greg. “It is something we can all take pride in to continue to encourage outdoor winter activities for everyone!”
The effort does not go unrecognized.
“They are busy ensuring the Birchwood ski trails are kept in gold star condition for the many walkers, snowshoers and cross-country skiers in town,” said Isabelle Doblanko.
The couple also has a playful side that shines through in the whimsical snowmen and ice sculptures they create.
Using different-sized garbage cans, they carefully mould snowmen that have delighted hospital staff, Rotary House residents and anyone passing through the Birchwood Trails.
The Brayall’s contributions include other areas. After the devastating 2016 wildfires, Greg devoted countless hours to Habitat for Humanity, helping to rebuild uninsured homes for those who had lost everything.
During the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 flood, they were active volunteers.
After the flood, the couple joined other volunteers to restore the Fort McMurray Heritage Shipyard and Greg has also been involved with Search and Rescue.
For 15 years they have been part of the Adopt-a-Trail program, caring for a four-kilometre stretch of the Birchwood Trails that they maintain as part of their daily walks. They pick up garbage, clear paths, and ensure that the trails remain welcoming for the entire community.
Some of the interesting items found on their clean-ups include: were “A snake in a garbage bag, a 22 calibre revolver in a leather case and a computer monitor!“
For the five-year anniversary of the 2016 Wildfire, they were part of a group that created Thank You wooden plaques on tripods from burned trees to thank the first responders.
Fort McMurray is a better place because of Val and Greg Brayall.
Stephanie Burtenshaw
Stephanie Burtenshaw lives by the J.R.R., Tolkien quote, “I am at home among the trees.”
“I’m truly a tree /earthy person,” she states.
Burtenshaw recalls a happy childhood growing up in Oakville, Ontario.
During her teenage years, Oakville had a population similar to present-day Fort McMurray, but it has since grown into a bustling part of the Greater Toronto Area and is now home to approximately 235,000.
“My parents bought a small cottage near Bancroft, Ontario. It was very remote and basic, with no hydro or running water. So every chance we got, we went up north. I got used to the land—the freedom of running around, swimming in the lake, and catching crayfish,” recalled Burtenshaw of her childhood.
“It was a thrill when you became old enough to start the outboard motor so you could take the boat out by yourself. I was 10.”
Although Burtenshaw has lived in cities—including spending 25 years in Kelowna—she has always felt most at home in the wilderness. “My parents gave me the gift of the outdoors.”
Since moving to Anzac, Alberta, in 2016, Burtenshaw, 61, has shared her love of nature with the youth in the region, inspiring them to embrace the great outdoors.
Having volunteered for many years for such groups as Girl Guides Canada and Scouts Canada –awarded a 20-year volunteer service pin in 2024 - Burtenshaw travels back to Kelowna every October to help, with an event called JOTA (Jamboree on the Air).
Burtenshaw continues her passion for teaching along with partner Phil Paulson.
Starting an Anzac Scouts troop as part of Scouts Canada’s Northern Lights Region was one focus but unfortunately, COVID has placed the group on a hiatus.
She has also assisted with the Anzac Recreation Board and the Anzac Family and Community Support Service.
“I enjoy volunteering on different boards. It is a great way to get to know people. I’m tenacious and keep showing up for things. I am not shy to volunteer.”
Once an active athlete with 40 years in soccer and 25 years in hockey, Burtenshaw is also a certified archery instructor and you may find her instructing youth, including Girl Guides, at the Fort McMurray Fish and Game Association (FMFGA).
Along with Paul, she is also a member of the FMFGA Black Powder program.
“We both have a huge passion for the fur trade and enjoy sharing our knowledge with the youth. It’s not just Show and Tell, it’s living history where the youth get to touch historical artifacts and hold trade beads that are over 200-300 years old (the bead have been authenticated) It’s truly a gift to see their eyes light up comparing a modern chevron trade bead to a historical one, they can truly appreciate the difference and “feel” history.”
The couple is also dedicated to passing on their passion for Indigenous-Led Land-Based Education.
Land-based learning typically uses an Indigenized and environmentally-focused approach to education by first recognizing the deep, physical, mental, and spiritual connection to the land that is a part of Indigenous cultures.
She has had mentors like Justin Bourque, a local trapper, who introduced her and Paul to the trap line principles.
“When it (teaching) started out, it was for a group of Indigenous kids but the classes couldn’t fill up so they opened it up to all groups. We have kids from all walks of life,” said Paul. “We get them out and teach them different things. When you are working with the kid and they succeed...it really puts a smile on your face. They have a lot of focus and problem-solving.”
Justin Bourque President of Traditional Teachings Inc. and Âsokan Generational Developments has high praise for Burtenshaw: “You just have to look to her lifetime of working with the youth and providing them with leadership and innovative thinking to help them develop. She works with Traditional Teachings Inc. where she is an instructor for the Mâmawi Kapesiwin (Together Camp), teaching high school students critical survival skills and land-based education that is woven with traditional knowledge that earns them credits towards their graduation for an impactful learning experience.”
Last October they had a group of 21 students from École McTavish High School at a Mâmawi Kapesiwin camp.
“I am fortunate to be part of the cultural teachings and very blessed to work with Justin Bourque,” concluded Burtenshaw. “I am proud to be a knowledge keeper.”
Larry Dewey
A powerful black-and-white photograph graced the front page of Fort McMurray TODAY on Thursday, November 12, 2009.
It captured a deeply moving moment—Kay Bouland, a senior citizen, laying a wreath at the cenotaph during the Remembrance Day ceremony at Keyano Theatre.
As she paid tribute to the six siblings she lost during World War II, a man stood beside her, offering quiet comfort.
His compassion was unmistakable.
That man was Larry Dewey.
Born in Watrous, Saskatchewan, Dewey’s journey to Fort McMurray began in 1973. That summer, he and his family visited during the July long weekend, touring both the town and the Great Canadian Oil Sands site. His friend, Wayne Bartel, who already worked there, spoke highly of the job opportunities and pay.
“I had my mechanic’s inter-provincial ticket since 1967,” Dewey, now 81, recalls. “So when we got home, my wife Donna and I sat down with our kids, Monte and Nicole, and talked about moving.”
During his job interview, he was asked an unexpected question—not about his trade, but about his son.
“The guy who hired me asked if my son could skate,” Dewey remembers. “I told him, ‘He’s been on skates since he was two, and he’s always playing hockey.’”
That was all the interviewer needed to hear.
“‘You’re hired,’” the man said. “And guess what? I’ll be coaching him.”
From that moment on, Fort McMurray became home.
Despite a busy shift work schedule, Dewey made time for local sports, serving on the board of the Northern Alberta Athletic Association, which oversees the Fort McMurray Oil Barons.
He has been a season ticket holder since the team’s inaugural 1981-82 Alberta Junior Hockey League season.
His son Monte progressed through the Fort McMurray Minor Hockey Association ranks, highlighted by his time playing for the Oil Barons (1984-86). He later spent three seasons behind the bench as an assistant coach.
Dewey and Donna were actively involved in all aspects of local sports through Monte and Nicole.
Nicole took part in figure skating and gymnastics and won a contest to name the Norfort Gymnastics Association.
Dewey chuckles as he recalls a time when Donna helped sew hundreds of costumes in record time for a Noralta Figure Skating Club performance.
After retiring in 2003, Dewey became a full-time volunteer, often contributing 40 hours or more per week.
Much of his work has focused on maintenance and outdoor beautification, with Donna assisting him at community hubs like the Nistawoyou Friendship Centre (NFC), Golden Years Society (GYS) and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 165 (RCL 165)
“It is no exaggeration to say that many of us have benefited from his guidance, often seeking out his expertise on matters of both mechanical know-how and personal growth,” said Dan Edwards, Treasurer of the Nistawoyou Association Friendship Centre.
“Larry is an example of what it means to lead with humility, kindness, and grace. He has always put the needs of others first.”
His contributions extend beyond the NFC and GYS.
His nearly six-decade-long dedication to the RCL 165 earned him the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.
“Comrade Dewey is a valued member of our branch and readily gives his time and extensive experience to assist our branch, the associated youth Cadet Corps, and the community at large,” noted Dale Bedfield, RCL Branch 165 vice-president.
Dewey has also volunteered for countless organizations and committees including the Alberta Drive Neighbourhood Watch, Suncor Retirement Club, Seniors Resource Council of Albert, Salvation Army, Community Advisory Committee and Vulnerable Persons Registry,
For Dewey, who was named Senior of the Year in 2009, the true reward of volunteerism is simple:
“To see people smile,” he says. “I like to see a smile on a face—and even better is knowing that I had a small part in putting it there.”
He encourages others to get involved, knowing that communities thrive when people step up.
“There is so much to do in Fort McMurray, but it’s not going to come to you,” he says. “You have to get out and be part of the community.”
Suzanne Doyle
It was 72 years ago that Suzanne Doyle was born in the small northern Alberta town of McLennan, a place affectionately known as the Bird Capital of Canada.
With fewer than 1,000 residents, it was a close-knit community, but like many northern towns in the 1950s, access to medical specialists was limited.
“I was born partly deaf, so I was hard of hearing,” Doyle recalls. “My parents couldn’t afford to get it fixed.”
Her daughter, Doris, now a life coach in Fort McMurray, reflects on the challenges her mother faced.
“She struggled a lot,” Doris says. “Growing up in a rural community in Northern Alberta was tough, and at school, she was often punished for not paying attention. But the truth was, she didn’t know the question because she couldn’t hear. That may have taken away some of the opportunities she could have had.”
Despite her hearing difficulties, Doyle developed a unique skill: an ability to connect deeply in one-on-one conversations, where she could focus without distraction. This strength would serve her well in a career dedicated to helping others.
For 16 years, Doyle worked at McLennan’s Sacred Heart Community Health Centre, taking on roles in the kitchen, housekeeping, and laundry departments. Though not always easy, she found fulfillment in her work.
“It pleased me to be able to help people,” she says. “When they needed help, I was there. Seeing what they were going through helped me understand my own life and how lucky I was.”
In 1990, she relocated to Fort McMurray with her two children, Doris and Andre, and spent the next decade working with the Multiple Sclerosis Society, cleaning clients’ homes and assisting those in need. Eventually, she returned to McLennan and worked in a long-term care facility before retiring and moving back to Fort McMurray seven years ago.
Her daughter Doris remembers how emotionally demanding her mother’s work could be.
“She would come home from work, and because of confidentiality, she couldn’t tell us what happened that day. But we knew she had gone through something difficult.
“Sometimes we’d get an extra hug, or she’d hold on a little longer. Growing up, I didn’t think much of it, but now I realize how much of a toll it must have taken on her. She has always been a very giving person, constantly doing things to help others.”
Even in retirement, Doyle’s generosity hasn’t waned. As President of the Resident Council at Rotary House Senior Lodge, she remains deeply involved in helping others. She also volunteers with the Golden Years Society and enjoys a variety of activities, games, quilting and crafts.
“I’m fit and very independent,” she says proudly. “I like being able to help people—it makes me feel good.”
She often behaves like everyone’s grandmother by smiling and chatting with everyone across generations.
Doris sums up her mother’s legacy best:
“In her daily life, she just wants to help people. She truly loves a life of service.”
Philip Harvie
Philip Harvie’s journey is a reflection of deep-rooted community values, family ties and a commitment to service that spans decades.
Born in Middleton, Nova Scotia, it was at the age of four that Philip Harvie relocated to Fort McMurray, Alberta with parents William and Joyce along with younger sister Kim.
“It was on February 14, 1966,” said Harvie, now 63, in a matter-of-fact fashion.
Harvie’s memories of Fort McMurray’s early days, including curfews enforced by the local fire hall, highlight a simpler time that laid the foundation for his lifelong connections.
“As a kid, there really wasn’t a lot to do and I remember there was a curfew around the 1970s when they would have the fire hall sound the siren and all of the kids had to be off the street by 9 p.m. in the evening.”
The curfew did not affect Harvie’s decision to become a member of the 2803 Fort McMurray Legion Royal Canadian Army Cadets.
“My father was involved (with cadets) as an instructor, so, I was kind of following in his footsteps.”
Joining the cadets in 1973, young Harvie progressed through the ranks to attain the highest possible rank of Chief Warrant Officer in 1980.
He would stay involved with the group as a civilian instructor and then in June 1989 he attained the rank of Lieutenant, a position, “that I held for almost 20 years.”
Harvie embraced the opportunity to instill values of citizenship and leadership in young people, an experience that continues to resonate with him today.
“Our goal was to teach the kids (ages 12-to-19) how to become good citizens. To fill the leadership roles. It was a great experience and even today when I see the odd former cadet around town...they will come up and call me sir.”
Professionally, Harvie followed a similar path to his father who had a 33-year career with Suncor, eventually retiring from the position of Oil Refinery Operations Supervisor.
After graduating from Fort McMurray Composite High School in 1981, Harvie went straight into the workforce, becoming a process operator at Suncor where he worked for 31 years.
“I never thought about going to college after high school...there was no desire to leave town unless I was going on vacation.”
In recent years Harvie has taken up the sport of Taekwondo and volunteers or has volunteered with the Fort McMurray Oil Barons of the Alberta Junior Hockey League, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 165, Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Fort McMurray Golden Years Society to name a few.
“Phil has been a longtime volunteer with our hockey club,” wrote Northern Alberta Athletic Association Director of Operations Terry Connors (a 2023 60 + Impact recipient). “From selling 50-50 tickets to taking tickets at the door. He has been a very valuable volunteer of our organization and he does it all with a smile.”
Michael Hurlburt, President of the Golden Years Society echoes the importance of having volunteers like Harvie: “He has been a consistent volunteer always willing to help out. Phil has assisted in various garage sales, 50/50 draws and numerous activities around the centre.”
Harvie currently works part-time in security for Great Plains Security and his wife Paula, 56, is a heavy equipment operator at Suncor.
He has assisted in raising three stepdaughters – ages 26 to 33 – and also hits the baseball diamonds in the summer with his grandson Aden, 15.
“They all know that I volunteer a lot and they respect me for that. I try to instill the importance of volunteering in them. “I had good role models growing up and I’m just giving back something that I was lucky to be given.”
When Harvie retires, may we anticipate a move to warmer climates?
“This is home forever for me. I mean 59 years! Where would I want to go?”
Asked about what he would hope his legacy would be: “That I was a good person a good volunteer and I would like everyone to follow in my footsteps in one way or another.”
Footsteps. They continue on.
Michael Hurlburt
Imagine attending a different school every year from Grade 1 to Grade 9, never staying in the same town or residence for more than a year. That was the reality for Michael Hurlburt, whose childhood was marked by constant relocation due to his father’s work in seasonal construction.
Born in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, Hurlburt attended 13 different schools in nine years. The frequent moves made it difficult to form lasting friendships, shaping his ability to be self-sufficient. “You learn that it’s no good to make friends when you know you’re only going to be there for a short while,” recalls Hurlburt. “My core group of friends was back in Yarmouth.”
He would spend his high school years in Yarmouth.
Despite his transient upbringing, Hurlburt found stability when he moved to Fort McMurray, Alberta, in 1980 to work in the oilsands industry. Over the years, he took on various trades, from crane operator to welder, but it was his passion for community service that would define his legacy.
In 1983, Hurlburt’s journey as a volunteer began unexpectedly when his (then) wife, Michele, signed him up—without his knowledge—to help with their youngest son Jason’s Beaver group. That one decision led to 19 years of service with Scouts Canada, during which he played an integral role in the Tarsands District Scouts.
At its peak in the 1990s, there were over 800 boys aged five-to-21 involved in Scouts in Fort McMurray
He was also District Commissioner for four years.
After retiring on February 29, 2016, Hurlburt continued his commitment to giving back by joining the Golden Years Society, an organization dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors in Fort McMurray. Initially, he and his partner, Susan MacArthur, were drawn to the society for its monthly dances.
MacArthur has also been a dedicated volunteer for the Order of the Eastern Star since 2000
However, it wasn’t long before Hurlburt became deeply involved, volunteering as a bus driver for the Walk On Program, which provides seniors with transportation to events and activities.
For many seniors, this service has been life-changing. “When I turned 80, I felt like my health was going downhill. I started the Walk On Program and walked two miles every Tuesday and Thursday. I feel so much better today,” says 85-year-old Margaret Sopczak. “I love to chat after the walk and feel safe. I know that Mike is always there to make sure I get home safely.”
Hurlburt now serves as the President of the Golden Years Society, where he wears many hats.” As president, I feel my primary responsibility is to provide our seniors with a safe, welcoming, “Home away from Home”! You never know when you walk in the front door what challenges might await, however, if you keep a positive attitude and a smile on your face, nothing is insurmountable!”
His dedication has not gone unnoticed. Barb Reitz, a fellow volunteer, praises Hurlburt’s efforts: “Mike jumps in with a smile and a song. Whether he’s chairing board meetings, updating the photo history, or driving the bus so members can attend events, he always steps up. If you follow the sound of singing, you’ll find Mike at the other end.”
For over 26 years, Hurlburt has also served on the United Way Allocation Committee, helping direct funds to essential community programs. His commitment to service has become a defining characteristic of his retirement years.
Reflecting on his lifelong volunteerism, Hurlburt offers advice to others looking for purpose: “Volunteering becomes your social network—it fills that void when you retire. I see so many people go back to work after retirement because they don’t know what else to do. Instead, try volunteering. If you don’t like it, try something else. There’s nothing that says you have to do it forever.”
From an uncertain childhood to becoming a cornerstone of Fort McMurray’s community, Michael Hurlburt’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and service. His story serves as an inspiration to all—proof that even the smallest acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact on a community.
Nayef Mahgoub
The beginning of Nayef Mahgoub’s nomination letter for the 60+ Impact award reads “Nayef Mahgoub, B. Sc., P. Eng., MBA.”
While his academic achievements are commendable, Mahgoub’s greatest contributions lie in his dedication to service, leadership and community building.
Bringing with him the gifts of time and knowledge, Mahgoub relocated to Canada in 1996 and lived in Toronto, Gander, Summerside, Calgary and Vancouver over the span of 14 years.
In 2010, he found his roots in Fort McMurray.
“I have more friendships and connections here than anywhere else I have been,” says Mahgoub, now 61. “This is the longest time I have been anywhere.”
Born and raised in Alexandria, Egypt, in a household of educators, Mahgoub grew up in a busy home with five brothers. His commitment to lifelong learning and giving back was instilled in him from a young age.
In Toronto, he served as a Board Member for a Mental Health & Addiction Center and during his time in Vancouver, he volunteered with Habitat for Humanity Greater Vancouver.
His commitment to service has flourished in Fort McMurray, where he has dedicated his expertise and leadership to numerous organizations.
After working in the oil sands industry for five years, Mahgoub founded Akron Engineering in 2015. This endeavour provided him with greater opportunities to expand his philanthropic efforts as it provided him with more time and resources to expand his philanthropic efforts.
“It is important to give back to the community. Since I have come to Canada, my finances have improved, and we have lived a great life.”
Mahgoub has served on several boards, including the Wood Buffalo Community Foundation, the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce, the Construction Association, and the Islamic Centre Project Construction Committee.
He has also contributed to the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) Assessment Review Board, the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, and the Downtown Revitalization Program Board.
His accolades and accomplishments include serving as President of the PEMAC Asset Management Canada, Fort McMurray Chapter, and a leadership role with Wood Buffalo Emergency Services and Consulting Engineers of Alberta. He is also the proud recipient of the prestigious Heart of Wood Buffalo Excellence Award and an Everyday Hero Award.
“I love sitting on boards,” Mahgoub shares. “It’s both encouraging and fulfilling. The success of a board depends on its composition, the dedication of its members and their interactions. A strong executive leader is key, and the board should always keep its mission and vision updated.”
Crystal Young, President & CEO of McKay Metis Group and a fellow Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce board member, speaks highly of Mahgoub:
“Nayef is a person of integrity, humility, and kindness. His ability to inspire and connect with others is unparalleled. His contributions have not only strengthened our local organizations but also fostered a culture of collaboration and mutual support. He leads by example, demonstrating that true impact is achieved through both action and empathy.”
Through Akron Engineering, Mahgoub regularly collaborates with Keyano College, offering students hands-on learning opportunities and integrating real-world experiences into their graduation projects.
When asked how he manages to balance his numerous volunteer commitments, Mahgoub credits strategic planning and the support of his family: “The last 10 years, I have had my own practice, which allows me more flexibility. My kids are grown up, and, most importantly, I have a very understanding wife, Petek. As an engineer, I have strong planning skills, which help me make time for what’s important.”
In his free time, Mahgoub enjoys playing squash at MacDonald Island and refereeing local soccer tournaments.
When asked for a final comment, Mahgoub simply states: “Volunteering is something good for people’s spirit.”
Hashmukh Patel
Surrounded by three dams the small community of Balod, India thrives in the production of paddy, grams, sugarcanes and wheat.
Its temperature typically varies from 58°F to 105°F.
So it was a bit of a shock when Hashmukh Patel experienced his first Fort McMurray winter since moving here 16 years ago.
“First winter it was so so cold. Very very cold,” recalled Patel, 71, in Non-fluent English. “In India, we have no minus there and here it was minus 30!
Having operated a convenience store back in Balod, he found contentment in the transition to Walmart Fort McMurray where he quickly rose up the ranks.
“Sometimes a problem with English but after one year or two years I was good,” admits Patel, who retired in January 2024 as associate assistant for the Pharmacy.
But it was working amongst a group of diverse cultures while also attending a course similar to the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada at Keyano College, that he gained extra confidence as a community leader.
Family members also assisted him with personal growth.
He is a mainstay with the Sanatan Mandir Cultural Society (SMCS).
By taking on various roles such as Senior group leader, event organizer, and facility cleaner, he shows dedication to contributing to the welfare and growth of the Indian community.
“I am deeply passionate about my SMCS community. I can’t imagine my life without SMCS.” is what he (Patel) says all the time,” says 60 + Impact nominator Laxmikant Rai.
Rai expanded the perspective on Patel: “One of his major contributions to the Fort McMurray community is leading the recycling effort and collecting litter during walks with seniors. Each month, Patel and his senior friends collect recyclables, load them into his van, and drop them off at the recycling depot. This effort typically raises an average of $8,000 per year, with all the proceeds generously donated to SMCS organization.”
Patel says “I enjoy getting the bottles. A lot of people give us the bottles and they just put it outside and we pick it up. It saves them from recycling. We also try to keep the community clean. It is for a good cause.”
Patel has many causes.
Through written script, Patel informed us of his driving venture; “Very few seniors in my community have driving licenses, and I love driving around town with my senior friends for community events, recycling collections, and more.”
Rai concludes that Patel’s volunteerism is indeed rich.
“With his boundless enthusiasm and positive energy, he motivates those around him to get outside, connect with one another, and embrace the countless opportunities for joy and adventure in their daily lives. His presence fosters a spirit of support and camaraderie, encouraging others to build meaningful relationships and truly appreciate the small moments that make life rich and enjoyable.”
Patel is also heavily associated with the International Film Festival of Alberta (IFFA) and Divine Group of India.
“I love arts and theatre,” says Patel who performs award-winning cultural dance. “I’ve had the privilege of performing alongside participants of all ages, inspiring younger participants to join in by showing them my own passion for music and dance, despite my age. I just love being around my older community members.”
Asked if he is ever nervous performing in front of large crowds, Patel responded with a chuckle...”No. No, sir. No problem.”
Always looking on the bright side of life.
Janice Petruk
In the early days of oilsands expansion, Fort McMurray gained notoriety for the “trailing spouse” phenomenon where a woman relocated to support her partner’s job opportunity.
When asked what brought her to Fort McMurray, Janice Petruk responded, “I followed a man here,” followed by a pause and chuckle. “But it just happened to be my dad.”
Born in Edson, Alberta, Petruk moved to Fort McMurray at the age of three with her family
Talking to her, it is evident that she has a sense of humour. A quality which has proven beneficial for her career.
Graduating from Fort McMurray Composite High School in 1982 she initially thought of becoming a paramedic, but at the time, there were few females in the field.
“At that time they didn’t have many female paramedics in the field,” recalls Petruk, 60, with a sense of frustration.
She then enrolled in Keyano College’s first nursing class, graduating in 1985 with a Nursing diploma.
This decision would shape her future.
In her early years as a nurse, Petruk worked in various units, including medicine, ICU, and home care at the Northern Lights Regional Health Centre.
In 1989 she took a one-year hiatus traveling to Australia, where she worked at a nursing home run by nuns in Tasmania.
The experience was life-changing. “Having grown up in Fort McMurray, I just wanted to experience something different. I wanted to see a bit of the world
“I was the only registered nurse, looking after 60 residents in my area. If you want to learn about a country, talking to the elderly is a great way to do it.”
Returning to Fort McMurray, Petruk continued her work in a variety of roles.
Eventually, she took on her most meaningful role yet—becoming a Cancer Patient Navigator.
For the last 12 years, she has worked closely with patients receiving treatment, guiding them through their journey with cancer.
It has been a deeply emotional and rewarding role. “We get to know our patients very well, and we take joy in their special moments,” she says. “ We work to make our patients feel cared for.”
“We talk about what to expect and the pathway they can follow. We guide them to resources they need and guide them to support both physical and mental health.”
Dealing with human mortality struck home five years ago when her husband Ryan, 51, passed away suddenly from a cardiac event.
“It was hard to go back after his death, but I knew I could use my experience to help others through their own grief,” she explains.
Her ability to deal with death and pass on the strength to others became an integral part of her approach to nursing and life. “As staff, we become so close to our patients. There are times when we cry with them, and times when we go off to cry on our own.”
Away from work, she has been an active volunteer in the community.
From ages eight- to -15, she immersed herself in baton twirling and Irish dancing. She had a remarkable talent, qualifying twice for the World Championships in Ireland—once at 13 and again at 15.
She has also been a long-time member of the Kinette Club of Fort McMurray
“Growing up, my parents were always involved in the community, and it was important to me to carry on that tradition,” she says. “I think one of my greatest achievements was to pass that attitude along to my daughter Natasha and my son Benjamin.”
Preparing for retirement in the next year and a- half, she reflects on her long career with gratitude. “It’s not about getting old; it’s about having the honour of working with so many incredible people and making a difference in their lives I’ll probably stay in Fort McMurray and continue volunteering, and I hope to travel when I retire. But this place, this community, is where my heart is.”
Thank You to Our Program Partners
This year’s 60+ Impact Award winners were selected by a committee of community members who recognize the contributions of the elders and seniors in the Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo region.
Do you know someone who would make a great addition to our list of 60+ Impact Award winners?
We would love to hear from you! While the selection committee ultimately decides the final list of recipients, public nominations will be considered evenly during future selection processes. To nominate an outstanding individual or for more information, email Your McMurray Magazine’s Publisher, Kerri Johnson at kerri@balsom.ca.
About the author
Curtis J. Phillips
Honoured with the Queen's Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022, Phillips has been a Founding Father of various sports events and organizations, including the high school Challenge Cup (1984) and Wood Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame (2000). He has been inducted into three Sports Halls of Fame to date and was the inaugural recipient of two national tributes recognizing community involvement.