GRAVENHURST, ON – A historical preservationist has been named the Town of Gravenhurst’s 2019 Ontario Senior of the Year.
Hank Smith received the honour during a Gravenhurst Council meeting on Tuesday.
A principal within the Muskoka school system during his working life, Hank has been an active member in the community since his retirement.
“I’m excited for Hank, he is a true volunteer and ambassador of the history and heritage preservation of our community and is fondly referred to as “Heritage Hank” by his peers. Hank is a perfect example of the incredible contributions that seniors continue to make in Gravenhurst,” said Mayor Paul Kelly.
Smith helped create the Gravenhurst Municipal Heritage Committee and has been an important member of the committee since its formation in 2008. Smith is also a member and volunteer with the Muskoka Steamship and Historical Society, sitting on the Board of Directors.
Smith is a previous winner of the Rotary Club’s Paul Harris Fellowship award. Recipients are Rotarians and community professionals, in recognition of their outstanding contributions, exemplifying the highest ideal in Rotary in placing “Service above Self”.
The Ontario Senior of the Year Award gives each municipality in Ontario the opportunity to honour one outstanding local Ontarian who after the age of 65 has enriched the social, cultural or civic life of his or her community.