By Emily Stonehouse

Jamie Schmale made his way to Minden on Saturday, April 5, to present the King Charles III Coronation Medal to the family of the late Brent Devolin. The medal has been awarded to a handful of local individuals, who have been identified in making a significant contribution to their communities through dedication and volunteerism. The former Mayor of Minden Hills passed away at the age of 64 last July, and his absence has been noted. “We are here to celebrate an amazing individual we all know and loved,” said Barry Devolin, Brent’s brother, and nominator for the award. He went on to share that while most remember Brent for his time in municipal politics, he was also actively involved with Minden Rotary, social housing initiatives, the Eastern Ontario Regional Network, the Haliburton County Snowmobile Association, and the Homebuilders Association, to name a few.

The presentation was done at the gazebo on Invergordon Avenue, in light of the arena being used as a warming centre during the ongoing state of emergency in Minden Hills from the ice storm last week. The medal was presented to Brent’s wife, Laurie Devolin, and their three children, Kurran, Lauren, and Spencer. Brent’s parents were also present at the ceremony, as well as a selection of his friends and family. “I’m sure Brent would have been so proud to have received this,” said Laurie. “I’m sure he’s looking down on us with pride.”