Lakefield Legion Past President, Jim Marsden receives Ontario Senior of the Year Award

A longtime community volunteer and leader has been recognized for his decades of service to Lakefield and the surrounding area.

At Tuesday's Selwyn Township Council meeting, Jim Marsden was presented with the Ontario Senior of the Year Award, a provincial honour recognizing seniors aged 65 and older who have enriched the social, cultural, or civic life of their communities through their contributions and volunteer service.

Marsden was nominated by his peers and Selwyn Council and was selected as this year's recipient by the Province of Ontario.

Known for his dedication to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 77 in Lakefield, Marsden served as Legion President from June 2002 to May 2008 and again from June 2010 to November 2024. He holds the distinction of being the longest-serving president in the Lakefield Legion's history and continues to volunteer with the organization today.

Longtime Legion volunteer and Past President, Jim Marsden receives Ontario Senior of the Year award during Selwyn Township council meeting. Left to right: Councillor John Boyko, Councillor Brian Henry, Mayor Sherry Senis, and Councillor Mary Coulas. (Photo: Selwyn Township)

The Ontario Senior of the Year Award was established in 1994 and gives every municipality in Ontario the opportunity to honour one outstanding senior each year. Recipients are recognized for making a meaningful difference in their communities after the age of 65 through volunteer, professional, or community service contributions. Municipalities nominate local candidates, and each municipality may submit one nomination annually.

Marsden's years of service and dedication continue to leave a lasting impact on Lakefield, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious provincial honour.