Former Cambridge MPP Brian Riddell handed out King Charles III Coronation Medals to five local constituents who were nominated for exceptional contributions and dedication during a ceremony at Riddell's constituency office on Tuesday.
Greg Durocher
Greg’s lifelong dedication to business and community has made a lasting impact on Cambridge.
Starting as a young entrepreneur and leader in local business organizations, he became the Chair of the Preston Towne Centre BIA and President of the Cambridge Minor Baseball Association.
In 1991, he was elected to Cambridge City Council, where he championed fiscal responsibility, leading the city through 10 consecutive years of balanced budgets. After his bid for mayor in 2000, Greg transitioned to the role of President/CEO of the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, where he led the organization through a period of extraordinary growth, increasing membership from 676 to over 1,900.
Under his leadership, the Chamber became a provincial leader, known for its innovative programs and cutting-edge technology. Greg’s passion for the business community, his commitment to Cambridge, and his forward-thinking leadership make him a deserving recipient of the King’s Coronation Medal.
James Kropf
James Kropf, born in Kitchener, Ontario on December 12, 1946, was educated in Waterloo Region, attending schools such as Eastwood Collegiate and Wilfrid Laurier University.
He holds the Music Supervisors Certificate from the Ontario Ministry of Education and the Kodály Certificate of Music Education. James taught music in Waterloo County from 1967 to 2001, including a long tenure at Hespeler Public School in Cambridge.
In 1978, he and his wife Jean founded the Cambridge Kiwanis Boys Choir, which he directed for 40 years and continues to serve on its Board of Directors. James has been a dedicated member and Board member of the Cambridge Kiwanis Club, directed music at Avenue Road Baptist Church for 18 years, and has been a choir member and People's Warden at Trinity Anglican Church in Cambridge.
James has earned the King’s Coronation medal for his long service to our community.
John Bell
John has had an incredibly successful career in business, but his impact on the Cambridge community is equally remarkable.
As Board Chair of Cambridge Memorial Hospital, he played a key role in restructuring the management and board, as well as launching the Capital Redevelopment Project.
In addition to his leadership at the hospital, John has served on over 10 local boards, contributing to a wide range of community initiatives.
His extensive service and dedication have left a lasting mark on the community, making him a deserving recipient of the King’s Coronation Medal.
June Anderson
June Anderson's selfless dedication has made a profound impact on the Cambridge community.
A retired Spiritual Care Provider at the Cambridge Food Bank, she created the "Steps to Success" program to help single mothers find meaningful employment. June’s commitment extends across various causes, including hunger, social justice, and Indigenous issues, through her volunteer work with Trinity Community Table and the Cambridge Council on Aging.
She was instrumental in organizing memorial services for overdose victims and has also supported Indigenous people with their documentation.
Known for her compassion, June has written books to empower women and children and was pivotal in the Cambridge Food Bank’s Community Impact Award. At 77, her work continues to inspire, making her a truly deserving recipient of the King's Coronation Medal.
Kim Fowler
Kim has dedicated nearly four decades to working with children, youth, and the community, currently serving as executive director of the Fiddlesticks Community Centre for the past 20 years, focusing on community development, early years, and youth leadership.
As a volunteer, Kim has been an active Scouter since 1993, contributing to Scouts Canada, the Baden Powell Service Association, and local school councils. She is also the vice president of the Cambridge Gaming Association.
Kim’s community impact has earned her three prestigious awards: the Senate of Canada 150+ Commemorative Medal (2018), the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce Lifetime Achievement Award (2023), and the YWCA Women of Distinction Award (2024). And today, Kim has earned the King’s Coronation Medal.”