During my recent visit to Edmonton, Canada, I had the pleasure of meeting another of our honorary life members, Mary J. LeMessurier. Mary stopped by to purchase a copy of the CWC History Book and to hear about the club's recent celebratory events. At the same time, I got a chance to learn a little more about this great lady.
Raised in Nova Scotia, Mary was Alberta's Minister of Culture from 1979 to 1986. Following her appointment as Agent General for Alberta, Mary and her husband relocated to the UK in 1986.
During her six years in London, Mary complemented her governmental responsibilities with CWC related activities. She joined with the CWC President and others at that time in the task of establishing the Canadian Centennial Scholarship Fund as a Registered Charitable Trust with direct ties to the Canadian Women's Club. In recognition of her tireless work on behalf of the CCSF and and the CWC, Mary was made an Honorary Life Member. As well, in her honor, each year a scholarship is given to a deserving student studying history.
Since returning to Alberta, Mary has received the Order of Canada (1998) for her services to public life. Now, enjoying retirement, Mary is a an avid golfer. Mary hopes to return to London to celebrate her 80th birthday in June, 2009 and we hope that we will be able to welcome her to a CWC event at that time.
Posted by Margaret Wickware, President, CWC
