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HALL OF FAME

2020 EDITION National Library of Cataloguing in Publication Data

Main entry under title:

City of Hall of Fame

2020 edition

Library and Archives Canada Cataloguing in Publication Isabel Brillinger, 1916-2011 author Commemorative Awards Committee / Kym Kennedy / Ellen Cohen -- 2020 edition.

ISBN 978-0-9689198-2-8 (paperback)

1. Orillia (Ont.)--Biography. 2. Awards----Orillia. I. Orillia (Ont.). Commemorative Awards Committee, issuing body II. Title.

FC3099.O74Z48 2020 971.3’17 C2020-905298-X HALL OF FAME

2020 Edition

Updated by: The Commemorative Awards Committee City of Orillia

Cover Art by: Jieun Kim Introduction

The Orillia Hall of Fame was established in 1964 to recognize residents, or past residents, of Orillia and area for their outstanding accomplishments. The award serves to build upon the history of our city and the incredible patrons who have built its past and present.

Those nominated have received national and/or international recognition in their field of work or endeavour. Nominees have included those in the arts, professions, politics, business, philanthropy, athletics and more. In all cases, the nominees and, ultimately the inductees, have made a substantial impact on the destiny of Orillia.

In order to ensure the legacy of the deeds and achievements of our Orillia citizenship, we invite nominations of those who inspire and illuminate. Details regarding criteria and deadlines are available at orillia.ca/halloffame.

Take some time to visit the display of the 50+ inductees at the Orillia City Centre in the hall outside of the council chamber.

4 Chair’s Remarks

Orillia isn’t just a beautiful city. It’s a colourful story of vibrant characters, impressive progress and genuine community. It boasts a culture that has raised small town principles to meet global achievements. The individuals celebrated in this book rose to greatness through committed effort, phenomenal talent, and the support of a beautifully knit City of Orillia. It is my great honour to be a part of a committee that is granted the privilege of learning about our citizens’ incredible achievements and overwhelming inspiration.

The Commemorative Awards Committee invites you to read through these profiles and learn about our city’s most remarkable characters. We believe in the people in our community, one that has so much diversity in thought and talent. Orillia will continue to produce incredible accomplishments much as we see in the pages of this publication. Help to write the next chapter of our story.

Kym Kennedy Commemorative Awards Committee Chair Special Thanks

A number of people have contributed to this publication over the years and made this publication possible: • Ms. Isabel Brillinger • Ms. Amelia Shilling • James Pauk Photography • City of Orillia Staff, past and present

5 Mayor’s Remarks

The City of Orillia is rich with culture and history. Great individuals from a wide array of disciplines have called Orillia home and we are proud to recognize the significant contributions they have made to Orillia and beyond.

With over 50 people named to the Orillia Hall of Fame since its inception in 1964, this Orillia Hall of Fame book provides the opportunity to formally acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of these well deserving individuals, both past and present. This book is not only filled with a wealth of information, but it will also fill you with pride and great reverence as it honours the people and the fabric of our great city.

On behalf of Orillia City Council, I would like to thank the Commemorative Awards Committee for their great efforts and dedication to preserving the legacy of the members of the Orillia Hall of Fame and creating such a wonderful publication for all to enjoy.

Sincerely,

Steve Clarke Mayor

6 Hall of Fame Inductees

Anderson, Thomas Gummersall Ley, Rick Baillie, Alexander Charles Lightfoot, Gordon Bain, Frank “Piper” Long, Erastus Bartleman, the Honourable MacInnis, The Very Reverend James K. John Angus Bartlett, George W. McDonald, Bob Beaton, Dr. Alexander McGarvey, J. A. “Pete” Bell, William McKenzie, L. Mervyn Boyle, John “Benny” McKinlay, the Honourable Cairns, Peter W. Duncan E. Carmichael, Franklin Mulcahy, Gertrude Chalmers, Floyd S. O’Brien, Lucius Richard Curran, Robert Parnaby, Tayler “Hap” De La Roche, Mazo Plunkett, Albert, Merton & Frost, the Honourable Leslie M. Morley “The Dumbells” Gaudaur, Jacob Gill “Jake” (Sr.) Shilling, Arthur Bradford Gaudaur, Jacob Gill “Jake” (Jr.) Shrum, Mamie (Faris) Gill, Harry Sissons, Hon. John Howard Gould, Glenn St. George, Laurent Quetton Greene, Canon Richard W. Steele, Sir Samuel B. Hale, Dr. Charles Harold Tapscott, Don Harvie, Eric Thomson, Dr. David Henry, Walter Tudhope, James Brochett Hutchings, Jeff Watson, Gordon Alexander “Skid” Keith, Marian (Mary Esther Miller Wood, Elizabeth Wyn MacGregor) Yellowhead, Chief William Knox, Walter “Musquakie” Leacock, Stephen Butler Lewis, the Honourable Douglas G.

Submit nominations to the Hall of Fame at orillia.ca/halloffame.

77 Thomas Gummersall Anderson

(1779-1875) Government Agent INDUCTED 1993

As a trader and government Bond Head in 1839 to make room employee, Thomas Gummersall for new settlers. Anderson had close contact with Anderson was said to have a the First Nations for fifty-eight shrewd judge of character and was years. He was the government devoted to First Nation interests agent who oversaw the first and was highly regarded by them. project of the British Empire to settle aboriginal people on Prior to his work as a government reserves. agent, Anderson was an accomplished trader and a At the instruction of Sir John military commander in The War Colborne of York, he was of 1812. He was the supervisor responsible for the settlement of of construction of the mill on the Ojibwa tribes at Coldwater the Coldwater River, as well as a and the Narrows in 1829, before school for the children of the First they were moved at the request of Nation. the new Lt. Governor, Sir Francis

8 Alexander Charles Baillie

(1939 - ) Banker INDUCTED 1999

Alexander Charles Baillie was campaign for the Orillia Museum appointed Chairman and Chief of Art and History at its inception. Executive Officer of the This Orillia-born man began Dominion Bank shortly after it his education at Hillcrest Public was created by the merger of The School and Orillia District Dominion Bank and The Bank of Collegiate and Vocational Institute. Toronto. He went on to attain his BA at A philanthropist, advocate for the and his greater commitment to education, MBA at Harvard Business School. and a fund raiser for many causes, He received the Award of Merit Baillie was also the honourary from the B’nai Brith, their highest chairman of the fund raising honour.

9 Frank “Piper” Bain

(1908-1991) Athlete INDUCTED 1969

Frank “Piper” Bain was a University of Toronto Blues for a professional lacrosse player from month in 1931. 1932-1936 with the Chicago “Piper”, whose nickname came franchise of the American from his father’s involvement as Lacrosse League. There, he won a Pipe Major of the Toronto Irish the Jim Murphy Memorial Trophy Regiment, moved to Orillia in as the most valuable player in 1936 to play lacrosse. Over the the Senior Lacrosse League in next three years, the Orillia team his final year. He played with won two Ontario Championships the Irish-Canadian Dominion and one Dominion Championship. Championship Team in the Junior In 1937, Bain coached the first Division, represented Canada in Junior Lacrosse Club in Orillia for the World Championships in 1930, boys twenty years old and under. and toured the USA with the

10 The Honourable James K. Bartleman

(1939- ) Lieutenant Governor INDUCTED 2004

The Honourable James K. his career as a Senior Diplomatic Bartleman was the first aboriginal Advisor to Prime Minister Jean person to be named Lieutenant Chretien. Governor of Ontario, a position Bartleman was an Ambassador or he used to champion literacy High Commissioner to Bangladesh, camps for native children. Israel, NATO, South Africa, He has written three biographies: Australia and the European Union. Out of Muskoka (2002), He brought his experiences to life Rollercoaster (2005), and Raisin in his book On Six Continents: A Wine: A Boyhood in a Different Life in Canada’s Foreign Service Muskoka (2007). These books 1966-2002 (2004), focusing on his cover his growth through humble beginnings as an aboriginal self-education, his university kid from Orillia and Muskoka. education assisted by a wealthy In 1999, Bartleman received the Muskoka cottager, the beginning National Aboriginal Achievement of his diplomatic career with the Award. Canadian Foreign Services, and

11 George W. Bartlett

(1852-1939) Park Superintendent INDUCTED 1995

George W. Bartlett was the park wildlife. He hired former superintendent of Algonquin trappers to become park rangers Park from 1897 to 1921. There who would help control poaching he successfully accomplished his and illegal trapping. Bartlett was task as charged by the Premier recognized both nationally and of Ontario, the Honourable internationally for preserving Arthur Hardy, “to make it a credit wildlife in a controlled area. to the province” after the park Bartlett came to Canada in administration had fallen into 1863, and to Orillia in 1872. His disrepute in 1897. He served work on railroad construction as postmaster, police magistrate, and lumber camps up north led chief coroner of the District of to a position of considerable Nipissing, and Commissioner of responsibility with the J.R. Booth Oaths. Company. As park superintendent, Bartlett was dedicated to maintaining

12 Dr. Alexander H. Beaton

(1838-1932) Physician INDUCTED 1973

Dr. Alexander H. Beaton graduated the only institution in Canada from the Toronto School of for developmentally-challenged Medicine in 1864, where he people. acquired his specialty in surgery. Dr. Beaton served as a two-term In 1876 Dr. Beaton was president of the Association of appointed as superintendent of Medical Officers of American what was then known as The Institutions for Idiots and Feeble- Orillia Asylum for Idiots. With Minded Persons. progress this institution went A beautifully carved communion on to be named The Ontario table at the Orillia Presbyterian Hospital, The Ontario Hospital Church serves as a memorial to School, and finally The Huronia Dr. Beaton. There he served as Regional Centre. For nearly elder for forty-five years. twenty-five years it remained

13 William Bell

(1945-2016) Author, Educator INDUCTED 2002

William Bell was an educator and the English department and taught author of fourteen books, twelve English and creative writing at for young adults and two for the Orillia District Collegiate and children. His pioneering efforts Vocational Institute. He spent in the mid-80s to establish a many years as an instructor in genre specifically for readers aged China at the Harbin University twelve to seventeen, led to his of Science and Technology and books being widely used in school Foreign Affairs College. Bell also courses to advance political and spent time as an educator at the social issues. These included University of . disabilities, literacy, alcoholism, Bell’s books have been translated sexual orientation, gangs, cancer into ten languages. He was and bullying. honoured with the Belgium Prize Having graduated from the for Excellence, the Ruth Schwartz University of Toronto with a Award (Canada), the Master of Arts in literature and a Reader’s Choice Award, and many Master of Education, Bell moved other recognitions. to Orillia where he was head of

14 John “Benny” Boyle

(1916-2008) Banker INDUCTED 2011

John “Benny” Boyle was named His rise from an Orillia bank teller Chief Executive Officer of TD to CEO of TD Bank made his Bank in 1978. Prior to that, he hometown proud. served as their international In World War II, “Benny” served banking representative in New overseas as a pilot and flight York from 1948 until 1959, when instructor on multi-engine he became their point-man to bombers, and spent a year in a ensure foreign investment in POW Camp. He was honoured Canada. After the 1955 merger of with the Air Force Cross for his the Dominion and Toronto Banks, service. TD went on to lead the world in the development of banking Upon retirement, Boyle served machines in the late 70s under as a director of Excelsior Life Boyle’s direction. He expanded Insurance, Aetna Casualty of the bank’s territory into the Canada, Costain Limited and United States and Britain, raising Jannock Limited. He also served its ranking from fifth to second as Governor of York University. place in assets of Canadian banks.

15 Peter W. Cairns

(1938- ) Vice Admiral INDUCTED 2002

Peter W. Cairns was a vice admiral two years prior to his retirement in the Royal Canadian Navy. from active service in 1994. He completed tours of duty in His education began at West Ward the Royal Navy and the United Public School and then Orillia States Navy, as well as service District Collegiate and Vocational on the North American Treaty Institute where he was selected as Organization’s maritime staff. He cadet major in the school’s Army was appointed to the Order of Cadet Corps. He is well-respected Military Merit as Commander in for his continued post-retirement 1991. involvement in his field. Cairns entered the navy as an Cairns served as president of officer cadet in 1956. His thirty- the Ship Building Association of nine years of active service Canada and the Canadian Institute included many sea commands, of Marine Engineers as well as both frigates and submarines. continuing his ongoing work on He served as commander of the the advisory board of the Institute Canadian Pacific Fleet for three of Ocean Dynamics. years, and as commander-in-chief of the Royal Canadian Navy for

16 Franklin Carmichael

(1890-1945) Artist INDUCTED 1966

Franklin Carmichael was one sketches are hung at the National of Canada’s most significant Gallery of South Africa’s collection landscape painters and the and he has work displayed at the youngest member of the Group National Gallery of Canada; the of Seven. He was accomplished Art Gallery of Ontario; and the in water colours, furniture- McMichael Canadian Collection. making, gardening, batiks, block In addition, many of his paintings prints and music. He contributed are in private collections around much as a member of the Royal the world. The most famous of his Academy of Arts, and as teacher works are titled Autumn Woods, at the Ontario College of Arts in Lake Superior and Northern Toronto. This incredible artist also Tundra. studied in Belgium. Carmichael is memorialized on a Originally a native of Orillia, plaque erected on the grounds of Carmichael’s reach as an artist is the Orillia Public Library. noteworthy. Two of his charcoal

17 Floyd S. Chalmers

(1899-1993) Philanthropist INDUCTED 1986

Floyd S. Chalmers was a jobs and was often compensated philanthropist who served as with free tickets to traveling president and chairman of the productions. This helped develop McLean Hunter Publishing empire. his love of music and arts which He was editor of the Financial later led him to join the board of Post where he exercised his the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. talents for seventeen years, and He was vice-chairman of the he offered his skill as advisor to Royal Conservatory of Music many Canadian statesmen and and president of the Canadian politicians. Opera Company and the Stratford Shakespearean Festival. Chalmers went to school in Orillia, attending Central School The Chalmers Foundation, created and Orillia District Collegiate by Floyd and his family, continues and Vocational Institute. While a to aid Canadian youth in their student, he took on small local artistic endeavours.

18 Robert Curran

(1867-1932) Athlete INDUCTED 2011

Robert Curran was a Canadian Double Sculls at the World’s Fair and North American sculling in Chicago, where he finished his champion. In 1889, supported career with a win. by the Canadian Association First elected in 1907, Curran was of Amateur Oarsmen, he won a long-serving mayor of Orillia, the Canadian Double Sculls holding the office from 1915 to Championship with his teammate, 1918 and being re-elected years John Gray. This followed an earlier later in 1932. Additionally, he win that same year at the US worked for twenty-one years as National Championship. In 1890, the editor of the Orillia News Curran partnered with Arthur Letter, a newspaper founded by Cameron and won both the US his father, and he established the and Canadian championships. In successful contracting and paving 1893, he partnered with John company, Curran and Briggs Co. Gray once again for the Amateur

19 Mazo De La Roche

(1879-1961) Author INDUCTED 1966

Mazo De La Roche was the In 1935, RKO Radio Pictures Author of the Jalna novels, released the film Jalna, which which chronicled the history was based on the novel. It of the Whiteoak family on a was adapted by the Canadian 19th century farm in Southern Broadcasting Corporation as a Ontario. This series has been television series in 1972, which widely read throughout the world brought to life Roche’s charming with more than eleven million depiction of Ontario’s landscape. copies distributed in one hundred, There is evidence that Roche ninety-three English and ninety- spent a year in the City of Orillia two foreign editions. Roche also with her grandparents. The name penned an autobiography titled “Mazo Roche” appears in the high Ringing the Changes, published in school register, dated August 29th, 1957. 1892.

20 The Honourable Leslie M. Frost

(1895-1973) Politician INDUCTED 1966

The Honourable Leslie M. Frost In World War I, Frost had been was the 16th Premier of Ontario, severely wounded as an officer holding office from May 4th, 1949 with the Simcoe Foresters, to November 8th, 1961. First deployed overseas with “C” elected to the Ontario Legislature Company. Upon retirement in in 1937, he served as Treasurer 1961, he wrote a book, Fighting and Minister of Mines until he Men, a historical reflection of was chosen as the leader of the the effects of World War I on his Progressive Conservative Party of hometown of Orillia. Ontario in 1949. A bronze portrait bust honouring Educated at Orillia District Frost, bearing the signature of Collegiate and Vocational Institute, Elizabeth Wyn Wood, stands as Frost moved on to pass the bar in a memorial at Orillia Secondary Toronto and established his law School. firm in Lindsay, Ontario.

21 Jacob Gill Gaudaur Sr.

(1858-1937) Athlete INDUCTED 1966

Jacob Gill Gaudaur Sr. was an a turn in Austin, Texas. In 1894, he accomplished sculling champion beat his own record. who developed his skill at The Gaudaur was a popular fishing Narrows, Orillia. In 1892, he guide on Lake Simcoe, and a and F. Hosmer won the Doubles celebrated Orillian who received Scull World Championship on the honour of having the Narrows Lake Couchiching. At the age of Bridge bear his name. In addition thirty-eight, Gaudaur went on to to the Jake Gaudaur Bridge, win the World’s Singles Sculling a memorial plaque located in Championship in Thames, England, Centennial Park, near the Port a title he held from 1896-1901. A of Orillia, celebrates his many veteran of one hundred races, in accomplishments. 1893 Gaudaur established a new world record for three miles with

22 Jacob Gill Gaudaur Jr.

(1920-2007) Athlete-Administrator INDUCTED 1988

Jacob Gill Gaudaur Jr. was Gaudaur was president and commissioner of the Canadian general manager of the Hamilton Football League from 1968-1984. Tiger Cats from 1954-1967, and During his tenure, he opposed led the team to nine Eastern American influence, keeping Conference titles and four the league strongly Canadian. Canadian Championships. Gaudaur contributed significantly This Orillia-born athlete and to the founding of the Canadian administrator was elected to the Football Hall of Fame and Canadian Football Hall of Fame Museum. in 1984, and named an Officer in A professional football player the Order of Canada in 1985. He from 1940 through 1953, he took used his distinguished position to a break from his career for three further many charitable causes. years to serve as pilot in the Royal Canadian Air Force.

23 Harry Gill

(1876-1957) Athlete, Coach INDUCTED 2004

Harry Gill was a self-taught of points scored in the 1924 athlete who won the Canadian Olympics, and the first NCAA All-round Athletics Championship, Track and Field Championship in the precursor to the Decathlon, 1921, which he helped organize. three times in the 1890’s. In Gill was an innovator of track 1900, he won the American and field equipment, including Championship with a record the discus, the hurdle, and the score that held for five years. Two first aluminum vaulting poles. He years after that achievement, Gill authored many coaching books turned professional and won the that found use as standard texts. All-round Championship in both Canada and the US. Having been born near Coldwater, Gill often returned to his summer In 1901, he began his thirty- home in Orillia, where he was year coaching career at the the first coach of Walter Knox, University of Illinois, where he another all-round athletics led his athletes to many victories. champion. These included a record number

24 Glenn Gould

(1932-1982) Concert Pianist INDUCTED 2004

Glenn Gould was a famously- further what he recognized as a accomplished pianist whose promising career. It was at the celebrated recordings of “The cottage that Gould could practice, Goldberg Variations” by Johann study scores and analyze his own Sebastian Bach became legendary. recordings. The subject of several films Gould found solace in Orillia. He and at least ten biographies, his was able to nurture his lifelong performances and recordings love of nature and boating, and impacted musical culture in spend time with friends in place Canada, the United States, Russia of fans. and Israel. He performed at the Orillia Born in Uxbridge, Ontario, Gould Opera House many times, and a began studying piano at age ten phenomenon of “Gould Tourism” with Alberto Guerrero of Toronto. found root in the city of Orillia He would spend summers at after his passing. his cottage near Orillia, where Guerrero followed in order to

25 Canon Richard W. Greene

(1848-1934) Preacher INDUCTED 1983

Canon Richard W. Greene was as Rector of St. James Anglican president of the Orillia Branch Church for twenty-three years. of the Church of England Greene was a painter who Temperance Society. He was contributed his own artistic skill also the president of the Ontario to the creative fabric of Orillia. Sunday School Association, He encouraged young artists, appointed in 1908 when Orillia including Franklin Carmichael of hosted its annual convention. the Group of Seven to explore A graduate of Trinity College in their own incredible abilities. the University of Toronto, Greene Greene carved the eagle lectern was ordained in 1872 to St. James at St. James, and was one of the Cathedral in Toronto, where judges who chose the Vernon he remained for thirteen years March design for the Champlain as second curate. In 1888, he Monument. moved to Orillia where he served

26 Charles Harold Hale

(1874-1963) Journalist INDUCTED 1966

Charles Harold Hale was a Canadian journalism, including his renowned newspaper journalist widely read editorials. whose experience spanned sixty- Often called “Mr. Orillia”, he was five years. He co-published The an intense historian who was Orillia Packet with his father, actively involved in preserving George Hale, who was one of the both written history and historical founders of the publication, and a sites. Hale was responsible for publisher with high standards for proposing the commission of ethical journalism. Later named Orillia’s Champlain Monument. The Orillia Packet and Times, those high standards carried Because of his numerous forward. contributions to the Orillia community, it is fitting that a In 1956, Hale’s alma mater, The bronze bust of him stands in University of Toronto, conferred memorial at the Orillia Public upon him a Doctor of Laws Library. degree. This was in recognition of his outstanding contributions to

27 Eric Harvie

(1892-1975) Philanthropist INDUCTED 2002

Eric Harvie was a great Canadian After the war, Harvie obtained a philanthropist who engaged law degree and moved from his in notable efforts to preserve home town of Orillia to to the history of Western Canada. start his legal practice. In 1947, oil As part of those efforts, he was discovered on his land, quickly founded the in leading him to multi-million dollar downtown in 1954. The wealth. museum houses his large personal He established the Harvie collection of native, pioneer and Foundation which has invested military western artifacts. more than $100 million in Harvie fought in World War II, many projects including the attaining the rank of captain. Calgary Zoo and Heritage Park, He earned the position of Charlottetown’s Confederation commandant in the Calgary Square and Arts Complex, the Mounted Constabulary. In Banff School of Fine Arts, and the 1952, he was named Honourary re-development of the Ryerson Colonel of the Calgary Highlander Polytechnical Institute in Toronto. Regiment.

28 Walter Henry

(1938- ) Athlete INDUCTED 1972

Walter Henry was a famous boxer Games, and fought in both the who won three hundred, eighty- 1964 and 1968 Olympics. Henry five of the four hundred and three retired from boxing in 1971. fights that comprised his career. Born in Hong Kong, and schooled In 1967, Henry was the first in Ireland, once his family moved Canadian to win a medal in to Canada, Henry found great boxing at the Pan-American pride in his new community. Games. Inducted into the Boxing Voted as Orillia’s Greatest Athlete Hall of Fame in 1974, Henry had in 2015, mutual adoration was won nine Canadian Flyweight established with this remarkable Championships and twenty sportsman, who said with passion Ontario titles. He represented “I’m from Orillia, and proud of it.” Canada at the British Empire

29 Jeff Hutchings

(1958- ) Fisheries Scientist, Professor of Biology INDUCTED 2018

Jeff Hutchings is a scientist and Toronto, and an MSc and PhD professor of biology whose work from Memorial University in on the evolution of life-histories Newfoundland. Among his and population dynamics, and numerous achievements, Dr. conservation biology of fish, is Hutchings has been honoured world-renowned. with a Canada Research Chair in marine conservation and His work was applied to biodiversity, and the A.G. sustainable fisheries, species Huntsman Award for Excellence in recovery, interactions between marine sciences. farmed and wild fish, human induced evolution and biodiversity. Hutchings believes that an integral part of being a research scientist Born in Orillia in 1958, Hutchings is giving back to society. He attended Hillcrest Public School actively does so through teaching, and Orillia District Collegiate and keynote lectures, public research Vocational Institute. He went findings, and appearing before on to earn a science degree parliamentary committees. in Biology at the University of

30 Marian Keith (Mary Esther Miller MacGregor)

(1874-1961) Author INDUCTED 1980

Mary Esther Miller MacGregor teacher’s certificate at the Old (Marian Keith) was a popular Normal School in Toronto. Her author who wrote stories of passion for writing lead her away fictional characters in typical rural from teaching, and her devout faith communities. Duncan Polite and guided her to Sunday School work, Orchard Glen were set in Oro, and to her husband, Rev. Donald Ontario. In 1906, MacGregor C. MacGregor, who ministered at wrote The Silver Maple, which the Orillia Presbyterian Church. highlighted how the clan rivalries The church sponsored the of English, Irish and Scottish Westminster Magazine, which immigrants broke down as their published MacGregor’s first children interacted in school. She short stories. Having discovered also wrote one children’s book; another author of the same name, Glad Days in Galilee. Mary adapted the name of her niece, Marian Keith, for publication. Born near Orillia, in the village of Rugby in 1874, Mary earned her

31 Walter Knox

(1878-1952) Athlete-Coach INDUCTED 1966

Walter Knox was an incredible Knox was a valued coach who athlete who shattered records in was Chief Coach of the Ontario track and field world-wide. He Athletic Commission in 1925, and won the All-round Championships coach of Queen’s University in in Canada, the United States and Kingston in 1930. the British Isles. Knox competed Born in Listowel, Ontario, Knox in pole vaulting, shot putting, moved to Orillia in 1893 when discus throwing, running, broad he was fifteen years old. In 1903, jumping, high jumping and the one he moved on to Beloit College in hundred and five pound hammer Wisconsin, where he was trained throw. He established records by fellow-Orillian, Harry Gill. that he held for generations in running and jumping.

32 Stephen Butler Leacock

(1869-1944) Author INDUCTED 1970

Stephen Butler Leacock was a Professor Emeritus of McGill respected teacher and widely University, Leacock served as published academic author whose the head of the Department of publications comprised over sixty Economics and Political Science volumes. This included essays, from 1908 until his retirement in biographies, history, economics, 1936. political satire and humour. The Home Leacock’s best-known works are in Orillia, which served as his “Sunshine Sketches of a Little summer escape, is now a National Town”, which he wrote at his Historic Site. A bronze bust of summer home at Brewery Bay, Leacock by Elizabeth Wyn Wood Orillia, and “Arcadian Adventures stands in memorial at Orillia of the Idle Rich”. Public Library.

33 The Honourable Douglas G. Lewis

(1938- ) Politician INDUCTED 2014

The Honourable Douglas G. Lewis Born in Toronto in 1938, Lewis served as the Simcoe North was called to the Ontario Bar Member of Parliament from 1979 in 1969 and moved to Orillia to to 1993. During his tenure, he continue with his law practice. was appointed as House Critic, A two-time Orillia Citizen of Deputy House Leader and House the Year, and Order of Orillia Leader. He also chaired the Public recipient, Lewis was responsible Accounts Committee while in for securing federal funding for the Opposition. Lewis served as Port of Orillia breakwater and the Parliamentary Secretary to the Lake Simcoe Regional Airport. He Secretary of the Treasury and as had the Leacock Home designated Government House Leader. In as a National Historic Site, and 1987, he was appointed to the he chaired the Orillia Soldiers’ Cabinet, where he was Minister Memorial Hospital campaign that of State-Government House funded expansion of the hospital. Leader, Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Minister of Transportation, and Solicitor General of Canada.

34 Rick Ley

(1948- ) Professional Hockey Player INDUCTED 2018

Rick Ley, a professional hockey positions leading up to assistant player, was with the Toronto Maple coach of the Canucks. Leafs for four seasons after being Along with Coach Quinn, he led drafted by them in 1966. In 1972, the team all the way to game Ley joined the new rival World seven of the Stanley Cup Finals Hockey Association, where he in 1991. Ley took over as coach was named captain of the New of the Canucks in 1994. In 1998, England Whalers and won a league he became assistant coach of the championship before the league . was absorbed into the NHL in Growing up in Orillia and playing 1979. In 1990, Ley was a charter for the Y Men’s Hockey League inductee into the World Hockey before being drafted by the Association Hall of Fame. Niagara Falls Flyers at the age of After a career-ending injury, he fifteen, Ley has brought great pride turned to coaching, serving many to his hometown.

35 Gordon Lightfoot

(1938 - ) Musician INDUCTED 1971

Gordon Lightfoot is a world- encouragement and support of his renowned singer and composer mother, Lightfoot achieved world- whose folk music depicts the wide success as a singer, composer social history of Canada. Reaching and talented guitar player. international superstar status As his success grew, sold-out with his hits “The Wreck of the annual concerts became the norm Edmund Fitzgerald”, “Canadian for him for decades. Railroad Trilogy”, and “Black Day in July”, Lightfoot has won seventeen Lightfoot was honoured with Juno Awards. the Order of Canada in 1971 and the Order of Ontario in With humble beginnings in 1988. A sculpture titled “Golden Orillia’s St. Paul’s United Church, Leaves” stands in tribute to him at age twelve, he entered the at J.B. Tudhope Memorial Park in Kiwanis Music Festival at Massey Orillia, and a bronze bust of him is Hall in Toronto and won first displayed prominently outside the place in his category. With hard front doors of the Orillia Opera work and dedication to furthering House. his musical career, and with the

36 Erastus Long

(1868-1916) Industrialist INDUCTED 1966

Erastus Long co-managed the A native of Oro Township, shingle mill, Long and Thompson Long came to Orillia in 1881 with J.B. Thompson, after the to apprentice at his uncle’s death of Long’s uncle, Robert shingle mill. His later interest in Brammer, left the estate in his community affairs led to positions care. Together, they expanded as a member of Town Council, to include a saw mill and chairman of the Water, Light and the manufacturing of both Power Commission, and trustee of transmission machinery and the Methodist Church. mining machinery. They extended Long was also a long-serving trade across Canada and in 1900, president of the YMCA and was the business adapted the name largely instrumental in the building The E. Long Mfg. Co. It was one of of the YMCA facility at its first the principal employers in Orillia. Orillia location on Peter Street.

37 The Very Reverend John Angus MacInnus

(1886-1964) Religious Leader INDUCTED 1985

The Very Reverend John Angus Order and the Kiwanis Club. In MacInnus was inducted as pastor 1952, he was elected moderator of Orillia’s Presbyterian Church of the 78th General Assembly, and in 1921, where he ministered given the honour of representing for thirty-three years. Having the Presbyterian Church of graduated from Queen’s Canada at the 1953 coronation of University, he went on to earn his Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Bachelor of Divinity degree from Upon his death in 1964, the Union Theological Seminary in church congregation established New York. a memorial bursary in his MacInnus co-founded the Victorian name. The bursary is for the Order of Nurses in Orillia, served encouragement of students on the Board of Education, and training for Christian service. was a member of the Masonic

38 Bob McDonald

(1951- ) Radio Host – Educator INDUCTED 2014

Bob McDonald is an author, and Philosophy. Science grew as educator, and the host of CBC a life passion, and he found work Radio’s popular science show, as a demonstrator at The Ontario Quirks and Quarks. He is a Science Centre in 1972, launching regular science commentator on him into a new field. the CBC News Network and McDonald received a Gemini science correspondent for CBC’s Award in 2008 for his work The National. McDonald hosted on Heads Up! He has eight the children’s science program honourary doctorates and two Wonderstruck, leading to two of honourary college degrees. He his books Wonderstruck I and has also been honoured with the Wonderstruck II. He hosted Michael Smith Award for Science and wrote a children’s science Promotion in 2001, the Sanford series for TVOntario called Heads Fleming Medal from the Royal Up!, and has written, hosted and Canadian Institute in 2002, and produced more than one hundred the McNeil Medal for the Public educational videos in the US. Awareness of Science in 2005. Raised in Orillia until he was ten years old, McDonald went on to be educated in Theatre, English

39 J.A. “Pete” McGarvey

(1927-2014) Journalist, Newscaster INDUCTED 1995

J.A. “Pete” McGarvey was born entertainment editor and author. in Toronto in 1927. He arrived He used those talents throughout in Orillia in 1947 to work as a his career in Orillia, and later in radio journalist for Orillia-based Chatham. radio station CFOR. McGarvey Serving on many boards, was a feature newscaster and foundations and institutions, commentator who traveled the McGarvey was an avid supporter world, bringing back reports from of whatever municipality he lived Moscow, Tokyo, , Hong in. He served as alderman, reeve Kong, Jerusalem and Beirut. He and deputy reeve in the City of interviewed over a thousand Orillia for twelve years. He was celebrities of Hollywood, chairman of the Leacock Home Broadway and music fame. Board for six years, and oversaw McGarvey’s talents included its restoration. In 1957, he was script-writer, arts and Orillia’s Citizen of the Year.

40 Lawrence Mervyn McKenzie

(1922-1977) Athlete-Administrator INDUCTED 1971

Lawrence Mervyn McKenzie hockey, lacrosse, football and was appointed as Ontario swimming. These talents led to Athletic Commissioner in 1953. a Minto Cup win on the Orillia Instrumental in setting up the Junior Lacrosse Team. 1966 heavyweight match between Ultimately, his skills proved Muhammad Ali and George valuable as he went on to become Chuvalo at Toronto’s Maple Leaf a member of the Championship Gardens, McKenzie held strict Committee of the World Boxing control over boxing and wrestling Association, vice-president of the in the province. He used his Canadian Professional Boxing position as commissioner to help Federation, commissioner of the many communities with sports Ontario Lacrosse Association programs. Senior League, and as he served Raised in Orillia and spending overseas in the Royal Canadian Air much of his youth at the Orillia Force. YMCA, McKenzie excelled in

41 The Honourable Duncan E. McKinlay

(1862-1914) Politician INDUCTED 2004

The Honourable Duncan E. Born in Orillia in 1862, McKinlay McKinlay was elected to the learned the carriage painting trade United States Congress in 1905. at Tudhope Carriage Works. His He was a personal friend of skill allowed him to work his way President Theodore Roosevelt, and across the United States, until he served under President William found roots in California. Taft, who appointed him as United States Surveyor of Customs With his studies in law, McKinlay for the Port of San Francisco, was called to the bar by the California. McKinlay’s interest Supreme Court of California in the national and international in 1892, where he went on to importance of the Panama Canal practice law in Santa Rosa from led to the 1912 publication of his 1901-1907, and became the first book, The Panama Canal. Assistant United States Attorney at San Francisco.

42 Gertrude Mulcahy

(1918-2015) Chartered Accountant INDUCTED 1993

Gertrude Mulcahy was the Mulcahy struggled as a woman first woman elected a Fellow in a male-dominated field, and Chartered Accountant of fought hard for a position at the Institute of Chartered the accounting firm, Clarkson Accountants of Ontario, She was Gordon which was founded by also the first woman to receive her great-great-grandfather. After its Award of Outstanding Merit, recognizing her exceptional and the first to be given the work as auditor with the Bank of Presidential Certificate of Merit Canada, in 1947 Mulcahy became from the CICA. the first woman to qualify as a chartered accountant with the Upon graduating from the Orillia prestigious firm. She joined the District Collegiate and Vocational Canadian Institute of Chartered Institute, Mulcahy went on to earn Accountants in 1949, eventually her Honours Bachelor of Arts becoming accounting research Degree, studying commerce at the director. Mulcahy earned her University of Toronto. MBA from York University in 1969.

43 Lucius Richard O’Brien

(1832-1900) Artist INDUCTED 1980

Lucius Richard O’Brien was the England. He was art editor of founder and first president of the the two-volume illustrated work, Royal Canadian Academy of Art. Picturesque Canada by George Munro-Grant, published in 1882. His diploma picture, Sunrise on the Saguenay, was used for the Born in Shanty Bay in 1832, thirty-five cent Canadian stamp O’Brien ran a general store in issued in 1980. It hangs in the Orillia for many years. National Art Gallery in He was a member and reeve of along with some of his other Orillia Township Council, and he paintings. His early water colours sat on the Council. and oil landscapes were painted He also served on the Village of in the Lake Simcoe and Lake Orillia council in 1867. Couchiching areas. O’Brien held three terms as O’Brien’s work has been church warden of St. James exhibited in many places, including Church in Orillia. Chicago, Philadelphia and London,

44 Tayler “Hap” Parnaby

(1941- ) Radio Host, Broadcaster INDUCTED 2011

Tayler “Hap” Parnaby was a radio Growing up in Orillia, where he and broadcasting veteran of more attended Central School and than fifty years who covered many Orillia District Collegiate and world-wide and landmark news Vocational Institute, Parnaby events. Beginning his career at ultimately went on to be widely local radio station CFOR in Orillia, recognized for his skills and where he rose through the ranks contributions in his field. He to eventually become a program received two gold medal awards host and producer, Parnaby went from the Canadian Association of on to many other noteworthy Broadcasters, numerous awards positions. He was news director for documentaries, reporting and at CKLC in Kingston, news editorials for the News Directors reporter and director at 1050 Association of Canada, and the Chum in Toronto, general manager Canada 125 Medal for Community and president of Newsradio Ltd., Service. and president and editor-in-chief of CKO Inc., Canada’s first all- news operation.

45 Albert, Merton & Morley Plunkett “The Dumbells”

Albert Plunkett: (1899-1957) Merton Plunkett: (1888-1966) Morley Plunkett: (1897-1954) Entertainers INDUCTED 1966

Albert, Merton and Morley The great voices of the three Plunkett were brothers who brothers along with their volunteered to produce histrionic ability made them the entertainment during World War pride of Orillia. Beginning as an I to help boost the morale of the all-soldier revue staging shows troops. They took their name The in the trenches, the Plunkett’s Dumbells from the insignia of the continued peacetime shows for Canadian army third division, and many years following the war, and rose to fame among those in the graced the stage of the Orillia trenches, as well as with audiences Opera House numerous times to in London, on Broadway and enthusiastic crowds. across Canada.

46 Arthur Bradford Shilling

(1941-1986) Artist INDUCTED 1989

Arthur Bradford Shilling was maintained his own distinctive one of the most inspired and expressionistic style, portraying creative Canadian artists of our the inner life of his people. time. Numerous exhibitions of After open heart surgery in 1970, Shilling’s art are on display in he fulfilled a life-long dream of , Brazil, Europe and constructing a native art gallery throughout Canada. His paintings beside his home. His talents are featured in permanent were celebrated in the National collections at The Museum of Film Board’s award winning Civilization, The Royal Ontario documentary about Shilling, The Museum, and the McMichael Beauty of My People. He was Canadian Art Collection. commissioned to write a book, Born in 1941 on Rama First The Ojibway Dream, which was Nation near Orillia, Shilling studied released after his death in 1986. at the Ontario College of Art and

47 Mamie Shrum (Faris)

(1913-2011) Athlete INDUCTED 1992

Mamie Shrum was an exceptional Born just north of Orillia, Shrum athlete whose achievements in was scouted and trained by world- shot put and discus throw are famous coach, Walter Knox. She noteworthy. She made her shot was honoured in her sport by put debut in 1930 at the Ontario proud Orillians. and Canadian Women’s Track and Enthusiastic in her new success, Field Championships and won Shrum was celebrated in both titles, a previously unheard of September, 1930, at Couchiching achievement. Beach Park where she was In 1932, she set a Canadian record presented with a gold wristwatch of thirty-eight feet, three inches in from the town and a migrator shot put, and won first in discus from the Township of Orillia. throw with one hundred, three feet, six and one-quarter inches. Shrum won first in shot put again the following year.

48 The Honourable John Howard Sissons

(1892-1969) Judge INDUCTED 1966

The Honourable John Howard successful lawyer, he took on the Sissons was a legend to the First challenge to become the first Nation and Inuit people for whom judge in the Territorial Court he fought tirelessly to bring of the Northwest Territories, justice. His decisions regarding necessitating extensive travel by hunting rights, Native marriage aircraft and dogsled to hold trials and adoption have become legal in remote communities. landmarks, despite outspoken A man of great moral stature, he opposition in Ottawa. was known to the native people Spending his youth hunting, fishing as “EKOKTOEGEE”, meaning “the and trapping around Brough’s one who listens”. Creek gave Sissons a better He retired to in 1966, understanding of Indigenous where he wrote his memoirs. lifestyle for some of the cases he heard later in life. As a

49 Laurent Quetton St. George

(1771-1821) Pioneer INDUCTED 1988

Laurent Quetton St. George His landholdings included two was a French Royalist with a thousand, three hundred acres distinguished military career in North Orillia, two thousand, who took refuge in Canada five hundred acres in Medonte, following the French Revolution. and eight hundred acres in South An ambitious and resourceful Orillia. In 1815, St. George man, St. George was determined returned to France where he had to succeed in Ontario after a a son, Henri. In 1847, Henri came failed settlement in the Vaughan to Canada to claim his inheritance. area pushed him to find his own Quetton Street in Washago, and success as a pioneer entrepreneur. Lake St. George, are named after Settling his first fur trading post at and celebrate the memory of The Narrows in Orillia, St. George Laurent’s son, Henri. later established stores in York, Queenston, Fort Erie, Dundas and other areas.

50 Sir Samuel B. Steele

(1849-1919) Soldier, Police Officer INDUCTED 1966

Sir Samuel B. Steele was an West Mounted Police three excellent tactician, diplomat and years later. detective who was a legendary Steele served in the Boer War in frontiersman and valued member South Africa and in 1915, went of the Mounted Police during the to England as major general in time of the Klondike Gold Rush. command of the 2nd Canadian Holding jurisdiction over all of Division. He was knighted for his the Yukon and British Columbia, service. Steele was the reason that there was so little lawlessness in The building at 30 Peter Street Western Canada. South that is now home to the Orillia Museum of Art and History, Born at Purbrook near Orillia, has been designated “The Sir Sam Steele began his life of service at Steele Memorial Building” in his age nineteen, when he joined the honour. Red River Expedition. He went on to join the newly formed North

51 Don Tapscott

(1947- ) Author, Consultant INDUCTED 2007

Don Tapscott is the author or At the age of thirteen in 1960, co-author of eleven books on Tapscott moved to Orillia with the application of technology in his family where he attended business. His first position with West Ward Public School and Bell Northern Software Labs Park Street Collegiate Institute. was to develop the office of the He went on to receive his B.Sc. future. This introduced him to the in psychology and statistics from concept of networked computers and his MEd which led to a career in business from the . consulting, and eventually into Tapscott has applied his education writing books on the affect to issues of mental health, serving computers have on society. on several boards of mental Among those was his 2006 best health organizations. He is seller Wikinomics: How Mass benefactor of the Tapscott Chair Collaboration Changes Everything. in Schizophrenia Studies at the University of Toronto.

52 Dr. David Thomson

(1870-1953) Professor INDUCTED 1983

Dr. David Thomson was the Orillia merchant, and three- professor of Latin at the year veteran teacher at Orillia University of Washington in High School, his education was Seattle in 1902, rising to become extensive. After earning his BA the dean, vice-president and acting at the University of Toronto, president in the years following. Thomson went on to earn his He served the university in PhD from the University of more capacities than any other Chicago, and pursued studies professor in the university’s at the University of Munich, history. Germany.

Finding enjoyment in local golf As a tribute to his many and tennis, and as a member of contributions, Thomson was the Orillia Chess Club, Thomson honoured with the dedication of found balance to his academic Thomson Hall at the University of achievements. The son of an Washington in June 1948.

53 James Brockett Tudhope

(1858-1936) Industrialist INDUCTED 1966

James Brockett Tudhope was the Furniture Company, and director President of Carriage Factories, of the Trader’s Bank and McIntyre Ltd., a merger of carriage Mine. businesses that turned out sixty Born in Oro in 1858 and having thousand cutters. With the advent moved to Orillia in the early of car manufacturing, Tudhope 1880’s, Tudhope contributed joined with his brothers to much to his community. Serving become pioneers in the motor as councillor, reeve and mayor of industry. They turned out a motor Orillia, he was eventually elected buggy, and ultimately a complete to the Ontario Legislature and the car, including its engine. During House of Commons. He backed World War I, their attention was many civic undertakings. turned to munitions. The magnificent organ at the Tudhope’s business acumen led Orillia Presbyterian Church to various ventures, including exists today because of Tudhope’s positions with Canada Wood generosity. Specialty, Canada Electric Castings, Tudhope Anderson Co., the Orillia

54 Gordon Alexander “Skid” Watson

(1896-1984) Humanitarian INDUCTED 1989

Gordon Alexander “Skid” Watson his community. Serving on many served as general secretary of the boards and institutions, he gave Orillia YMCA for forty-one years. freely of his leadership. His enormous effort to establish After teaching at a country school a permanent summer camp at in Dartmoor and serving overseas William Thomson’s “Breezy in England and France for a time, Point” property on the east shore Watson returned to Orillia and to of Lake Couchiching resulted the community and values of the in the establishment of Camp Young Man’s Christian Association Summerland in 1930, a camp for he so loved. The Orillia YMCA Canadian youth from coast to on Peter St. North is widely coast. recognized as the “Skid Watson Born and educated in Orillia, Facility” in his honour. Watson lived to breathe life into

55 Elizabeth Wyn Wood

(1903-1966) Sculptor INDUCTED 1966

Elizabeth Wyn Wood was a of Art in Toronto and at the Art talented sculptor whose many Students’ League in New York. works of limestone, copper, She taught for twenty-five years granite, marble and white plaster at Central Technical School in gained great notoriety. Wood was Toronto. Wood was a founding adept in monumental sculpture, member of the Sculptors Society creating works such as her of Canada, and a member of the eight-year project of a ten-foot Royal Canadian Academy of Art. granite statue of King George The City of Orillia commissioned VI in Niagara Falls. The fountain three bronze busts by this in the Fragrant Garden for the talented artist: Premier Leslie Blind carefully created a sound Frost, Stephen Leacock and stage for trickling water that Harold Hale. took precedent to its lovely visual A marble bust of Wood herself form. Wood’s most notable works was fashioned by her husband, include the landscape sculptures Emanuel Hahn, and stands in the that represent the trees, rocks and Orillia Public Library. waters of the Canadian Shield.

Born in Orillia, Wood went on to study at the Ontario College

56 Chief William Yellowhead “Musquakie”

(1769-1864) Ojibwa Chief INDUCTED 1999

Chief William Yellowhead until new settlers infiltrated the “Musquakie” was an Ojibwa area. In 1838 and 1839, the Ojibwa chief who signed the 1818 treaty were compelled to relinquish their allowing the Crown to purchase lands. They moved to the east side one million, five hundred and of Lake Couchiching. ninety-five thousand acres of land Yellowhead was a devout in the Lake Simcoe area from the Christian whose final resting First Nations. Son of “The Yellow place is the churchyard of Orillia’s Head, Chief of Lake Simcoe”, St. James Anglican Church. The who kept his people loyal to the Regional District of Muskoka British during the War of 1812, serves as a permanent memorial “Musquakie” was made Chief of to ”Musquakie”. It is named after the tribe and appointed Principal him in honour of the land once Chief of the Deer Tribe at his part of his recognized hunting father’s behest. grounds. Chief Yellowhead and his followers settled in the vicinity of Orillia,

57 Committee Members

Since its inception in 1964, many people have served on the Committee, dedicating their time to researching and selecting noteworthy Orillians to become a part of the Hall of Fame. Our sincerest thanks goes to each and every one of them for their hard work. The following is a list of all those who have been a part of the Committee:

Louis Francoz (Councillor/ Mel St. Onge 1989 - 2011 Deputy Reeve) 1964 - 1966 Isabel Brillinger 1989 - 1995 J.B. Lamb 1964 - 1971 Patricia Hehn 1990 - 1993 Edna Cutt 1964 - 1985 Don Hunter 1991 - 1997 Skid Watson 1964 - 1984 Peter Hoare 1994 - 1999 Grace Crooks Leigh 1964 - 1985 Wendy Hutchings 1995 - 2011 Harry Tissington Donald Ross 1999 - 2011 (Alderman) 1971 - 1973 Andrew Johnston 2000 - 2004 Ron Leliever (Alderman) 1970 Kelly Lassaline 2003 - 2006 William McFarlane 1971 - 1973 Janifer Tissington 2001 - 2011 P. McIsaac (Alderman) 1974 Mort Seymour 2006 - 2011 George Czerny 1974 - 1977 David Town 2006 - 2011 Frank Kehoe (Alderman) 1975 - 1978 Michael Hill 2007 - 2011 Tony McCauley 1978 - 1980 Betsy Gross 2012 - 2018 John Parks (Alderman) 1979 - 1982 Kyle Asselin 2012 - 2016 W.M. Cramp (Alderman) 1979 Paul Raymond 2012 - 2018 Allan Ironside 1980 - 1988 Ted Rzeplinski 2012 - 2014 Mark Furlong 1983 - 1985 Shannon Jackman 2013 - 2019 Gerry Briggs (Alderman) 1983 - 1985 Barbara Dickson 2015 - 2019 Frank Dolcort (Alderman) 1986 - 1987 Bruce McRae 2017 Douglas Blackburn 1986 - 1988 Ted Duncan 2018 - 2019 Jay Cody 1984 - 1997 Susan McGraw 2019 - Sue Mulcahy 1984 - 2011 Kym Kennedy 2019 - Clare Long 1986 - 2004 Ellen Cohen 2019 - Jeff Day 1988 - 1997 Gilles Depratto 2019 - Alannah Langlois (Alderman) 1987 - 1990

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