Neal Hardy (Submitted photo/Lynda Parkman)

By Ben Tompkins

Long-time Reeve

Hudson Bay man receives Saskatchewan Order of Merit

Jul 20, 2023 | 9:31 AM

A long-time Reeve of the Rural Municipality of Hudson Bay has been named as one of six recipients of the 2023 Saskatchewan Order of Merit.

Neal Hardy, 88, found out on Tuesday and told northeastNOW he was quite surprised.

“I never thought about doing anything like that, and I’m getting up in age. Whatever it is, it sounds good anyways.”

The Saskatchewan Order of Merit, which was created in 1985, is the province’s highest honour and is meant to celebrate excellence and achievement by Saskatchewan citizens.

The six medal recipients will be invested with the Order at a formal ceremony in Saskatoon on Sept. 27.

Twist on a classic

Regina board game designer puts new spin on crokinole

9h ago

Spring in Saskatchewan

Calm, dry weather expected across much of Saskatchewan over Easter weekend

9h ago

Tribute projects

Progress on Humboldt Broncos memorial continues eight years after tragic crash

9h ago

Hardy explained he hasn’t yet discussed attending the event with his family, however, it’s a likely possibility.

“It’s important, it’ll be interesting, and it’ll be fun,” he said.

Hardy began with the RM of Hudson Bay, when they were first established in the late 70s, and has since left and come back.

He values his position as Reeve as one of importance, stating that he’s been there for quite a while and that it’s worked out.

“I’ve been to a lot of communities in Saskatchewan in my lifetime, so that’s always a plus,” Hardy added. “I’ve met a lot of great people over the years and those people do a lot of great things, so it’s been interesting.”

As for Lynda Parkman, who is Hardy’s daughter, she said her dad will be celebrating his 89th birthday when he gets his award.

Parkman mentioned that she, alongside his other three kids, is quite proud of what their father has done.

“As a family, we’re proud of his accomplishments and what he has done for the community. He’s been a great role model for each of us.”

The other five recipients include Al Anderson, Nora Cummings (S.V.M), Pierre Hucl, and Don Meikle (all from Saskatoon), as well as Jacqueline Tisher from Regina.

To date, 266 people have been invested with the Order in appreciation of their significant contributions in areas like agriculture, business, industry, community leadership, public service, art, research and volunteering.

The Saskatchewan Order of Merit is recognized in the Canadian Honours System and members of the Order are entitled to use the post-nominal letters S.O.M.

This year’s winners were announced by Lieutenant Governor Russ Mirasty.

“These Saskatchewan Order of Merit recipients have taken on challenges and dedicated themselves to making positive change in their communities,” Mirasty said. “Their efforts have made a remarkable impact on our province and its people. I wish to congratulate and express my gratitude to each of the recipients for years of contributions and commitment.”

–

news@northeastnow.com

On Twitter @BenTompkins_8