The Town of Swan River has honoured two Swan River iconic leaders by naming two upcoming streets after them.
Dick Walker Trail and Glen McKenzie Bay will be the official designations of two new streets as part of a future residential subdivision north of the Rotary Soccer Fields and Orville Minish Field.
“These names are more than just markers on a map, they are lasting tributes to two men whose dedication, leadership and service have left a mark on our town,” said Town of Swan River Deputy Mayor David Moriaux, during an unveiling ceremony held on Thursday (June 19).
Moriaux recognized Glen McKenzie’s achievements during his time as part of the Town of Swan River council, which he was part of from 1988 to 2018, 23 years of which were as Mayor.
McKenzie was instrumental in building bridges between communities, notably through his role in the first Treaty Land Entitlement agreement between Swan River and the Sapotaweyak Cree Nation (SCN) in 2012, laying the groundwork for reconciliation and mutual respect. Since that time, SCN has also established two more Urban Reserves, and Wuskwi Sipihk First Nation has also developed an Urban Reserve.
McKenzie also helped form the G7, a coalition of Swan Valley municipalities that contributed to strengthening shared goals.
“One of his biggest accomplishments was the establishment of the 2014 Wellness Centre – a project that, despite its challenges, has become a key component of health and well-being in our community,” said Moriaux. “He also championed the Medical Services Recruitment and Retention Committee, ensuring that Swan River remained a place where families could access quality healthcare.
“Today, Glen McKenzie Bay stands as a symbol of leadership, vision and community spirit.”
McKenzie also was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, as a recognition of his service and commitment.
“I’m honoured to have a street or a bay named after me,” said McKenzie. “When you join municipal government, you never think about those kinds of things. In the 30 years I was in municipal government, I was very fortunate to have very good people to work with.
Dick Walker – who passed away in 2014 – was also recognized for his life dedicated to volunteerism and community service. He was a long-time member and president of the Swan River Rotary Club for more than 20 years, and served in the Swan River Valley Agricultural Society for 50 years. His passion for conservation was also evident in his 30 years of volunteer work with Ducks Unlimited.
From 1972 to 1980, Walker served as a town councillor, and even after his term ended, he remained involved through the Parks and Recreation Committee. He was also a driving force behind the Richardson Recreation and Wellness Centre, and the visionary behind the Duck Mountain Forest Centre, a project that continues to benefit our Valley’s environment and education.
Walker was also recognized with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, as a testament to his lifelong commitment to making Swan River a better place.
“Dick Walker Trail will now serve as a lasting reminder of his generosity, his passion, and his enduring impact on our community,” said Moriaux.
Walker’s son, Bob Walker, accepted the honour on behalf of his late father.
“(Dick Walker) would be extremely proud of this,” he said.
Both the McKenzies and the Walkers received a replica street sign for themselves, and the official markers will be installed at some point in the future when the streets for the subdivision are further developed.