There was an emotional presentation at council this morning during a senior of the year award presentation to Gordon Schottlander.
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward had a wonderful tribute prepared for her friend and fellow downtown Burlington resident Schottlander, a much-loved citizen. Sharing his many accomplishments, she was able to present him with a framed recognition from the city, along with some "Burlington mementos."
The Mayor had nominated him for the award, which is a provincial recognition, and he was selected as the Ontario Senior of the Year. The award recognizes one outstanding senior, who are the age of 65, enriches the social, cultural, or civic life of his/her community.
"I couldn't think of anyone more deserving than our very own Gordon Schottlander," she said.
Schottlander, who is 99 years old, is one of few remaining veterans of D-Day. As a youngster, he landed on Juno Beach on June 6, 1944, to take part in the largest seaborne invasion in history. He was part of the British Army, fighting alongside the Canadians, making history.
He's continued his civic pride here in Burlington, participating annually in the Moon in June road race; often the Mayor is his partner along the shortened route, named in his honour: Gordon’s Great 1K.
Meed Ward had to stop reading her prepared notes after becoming emotional reading all that Schottlander has done for history and for the city of Burlington.
She has long been close with Schottlander, giving him the first Key to the City in 2020.
His many accomplishments include President of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Burlington Planning Board, serving with the Knights of Columbus for many years, Chairman of the committee that raised over $1 million for the local YMCA, and being named Burlington’s Citizen of the Year in 1968.
He continues to make Burlington his home, living in Aldershot. A large number of his family were in council chambers to watch their dad, grandfather, and great-grandfather receive accolades.
He spoke at the podium during the presentation, noting it was an honour to be nominated.
"To be awarded this prestigious award is incredible and I thank you all very much for your efforts," he said. "In Burlington and Ontario there are tens of thousands of seniors who do work for the community using their expertise and energy to make it places they live in, a better place. I'd like to share this award with them so they don't feel they are forgotten for all they do."
He thanked the mayor and council, the city and his wonderful family, "who go wherever I lead them. Always go forward and never back up on anything," he reminded people.
