News and Events

A Young Sculptor's Soldier Memorial in Picton, Ontario

15 December 2011 -- As he grew up close to a Coast Guard base in Prescott (ON), Marc Bourdon was always very patriotic. He now lives near the Trenton Air Base and knows a lot of local Veterans. This young sculptor actually has a maple leaf tattooed over his heart! He used to work for the Campbell Monument company in Belleville where he helped produce over 1,500 Last Post Fund military markers for Veterans’ graves, as part of the Funeral and Burial Program. He later “jumped back into stone sculpting and glass art.”

Recently, Marc designed a Soldier Memorial on an artist trail at the Small Pond Arts Centre in Picton. In this 87-acre location completely surrounded by nature, artists can focus on their own projects or participate in collaborative artistic pursuits, free from the pressures of daily life.

“I chose to carry the stone into the woods by myself,” he explains. “It was safer if I did it alone but I also wanted it to be ‘all me’. It was both physically and emotionally exhausting. During the installation I got a large bug bite and scratched it on a branch walking through the woods. The bite became infected and I had to get a chunk of my leg removed (about half the size of a marble). I consider the scar to be my badge of honour for installing the memorial! I also designed the memorial so it could be hugged. I want it to be hugged at least 1,500 times and to let me know, I have made it out of limestone so the ‘hugger’ can leave a scratch in the stone. I am also using the memorial as a tool to teach my daughter the sacrifices that are made for our freedom.”

He now has to check on his sculpture once in a while, says Marc, because birds like to hang around it. “At first it upset me, but now I see the birds as ‘guardians of the Soldier Memorial’. I see them as a ‘symbol of freedom’. Were it not for our fallen soldiers, I would not be able to soar up to unimaginable heights in the world's greatest country.”

Marc Bourdon defines himself as an ‘idea generator and doer’ in that he is constantly creating. “I don’t just say I want to create a Soldier Memorial, I actually do it.” In 2008, he was the youngest artist to receive the Quinte Arts Council Recognition Award (average age is 55). “I will not wait until retirement to do all the things I want to do,” he concludes.

Candlelight Ceremony at the Last Post Fund National Field of Honour

16 November 2011 -- Canadians across the country have shown in many ways how they remember and honour our Veterans. On November 4, on behalf of the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Senator Pierre Claude Nolin remembered them during a candlelight ceremony at the Last Post Fund National Field of Honour in Pointe-Claire, Québec.

Veterans, members of the military community and residents of Montréal’s West Island came together to honour those buried at the National Field of Honour.

“Generations of Canadians have sacrificed a great deal so we may live in peace. Battles and place names such as Vimy Ridge, Dieppe, Gapyong, Sudan, Bosnia and Afghanistan are now embedded in our collective memories,” said Senator Nolin. “Our Government is dedicated to providing our Veterans with the support and care they need and so richly deserve.”

The candlelight ceremony, which officially launched the 2011 Veterans’ Week, was organized by the Last Post Fund, in partnership with Veterans Affairs Canada.

The Minister's Commendation for RAdm Barry Keeler

15 September 2011 -- Rear Admiral (Ret’d) Barry Keeler, Last Post Fund Honorary Treasurer and President of the LPF for Nova Scotia, was among 12 citizens from that province to be honoured for their commitment and dedication to Veterans. Earlier this week, they were presented with the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation during a ceremony in Halifax. "These twelve individuals are making a real and lasting difference with their service and dedication to our nation's truest heroes," said Minister Steven Blaney.

"On behalf of all Canadians, I am proud to be able to acknowledge their extraordinary efforts in helping to provide the care and recognition our Veterans and their families deserve. Today we recognize their hard work and honour them."

The Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation is presented to individuals who have contributed to the care and well-being of Veterans and to the remembrance of their contributions, sacrifices and achievements. The Commendaton includes a bar, which can be worn below official decorations on a Veteran's blazer, as well as a lapel pin for civilian wear and a certificate.

For a biography of RAdm Keeler, click here.

A New Regional Manager for Québec…

A Special Decoration for LPF National President

Photo: Nancy Rowe 

16 August 2011 -- The Last Post Fund National President, LCol Evelyn Kelly, was among the 19 citizens from Ontario who were decorated with the Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation on July 27. This honour bestowed upon these individuals by the Honourable Steven Blaney, Minister of Veterans Affairs, recognized their “exemplary contribution to the care and well-being of Veterans and their remembrance of the sacrifices and achievements of our Veterans.”

“After serving, many of Canada’s Veterans have continued to provide outstanding service to their country, their communities and their fellow Veterans,” said Minister Blaney. “They have truly been nation builders and have earned our undying respect and gratitude. It is equally gratifying to see other Canadians volunteer their time and efforts to give back to our Veterans.”

The Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation includes a bar, as well as a lapel pin for civilian wear and a certificate.

Click here for a full biography of LCol Evelyn Kelly.

So that they shall never be forgotten...

On Sunday 5 June was held the 80^th commemorative ceremony of the Last Post Fund National Field of Honour in Pointe-Claire, QC where a local group of Scouts had planted a small Canadian flags on each and every gravestone. Since its consecration in September 1910, this unique military cemetery has been the scene of an annual tribute to the more than 20,000 Canadian and Allied Veterans, and their close ones, who are buried at the Field of Honour. They originate not only from all Canadian provinces but also from 41 countries across the globe.

The event was attended by over 2,000 who came to pay their respects to departed comrades and parents or simply to watch a very moving ceremony.

After the Sentry took place near the Cross of Sacrifice on the Currie Circle–named after Sir General Arthur Currie–,in came the Military Band, the Royal Canadian Legion’s Flag Party and the Honour Guard. A piper then escorted the Last Post Fund Guest of Honour, Brigadier-General Michael Hood, and the LPF National President, LCol (Ret’d) Evelyn Kelly to the podium. BGen Hood is Director General, Air Force Development, Canadian Forces. He proceeded to review the Honour Guard, the Flag Party and the Band, before delivering a thoughtful address of which the following are a few excerpts.    

“Death does not discriminate between Generals and Privates, between men and women, or between those with means and those who may be penniless. And so, they lie here side by side–magnificently equal in death.

“Canada is not known as a country that wears its patriotism on its sleeve… but we are indeed getting better at recognizing and celebrating the sacrifice that our country’s sons and daughters made on behalf of us all. Perhaps we also need to better recognize those whose lives today bear the scars as a lasting memory of that sacrifice and commitment.

“Every marker represents a story… some told but many untold. They were young men and women who stood up for the values we cherish. Freedom. Democracy. The Rule of Law. They were ordinary people who performed extraordinary deeds when their country called their name.

“And as we think back to all those Canadian men and women who have sacrificed so much–and continue to sacrifice to this very day–we turn to honour those who lie in this sacred field. The Gate of Remembrance, the Memorial Chapel, the Cross of Sacrifice and the rows of markers and flags remind us of the essence of this site.

“Those buried here have demonstrated their commitment to Canada in a way that few of us ever will. To honour and protect in death seems but a small return to those who have done so much to protect our country and to bring honour to it in life.”

At the close of BGen Hood’s address were heard traditional military airs such as Lament, Last Post and Réveille played in turn by the bugler and the piper, as well as Canada’s national anthem played by the Military Band. The ceremony concluded with the laying of more than 30 wreaths by different groups, Legion branches and personalities. Later on, BGen Hood and LCol Kelly met with Veterans from the Ste. Anne-de-Bellevue Hospital.   

For over 100 years, the Last Post Fund’s mission has remained unchanged: to ensure, insofar as possible, that no Veteran will be deprived of a dignified funeral and burial for lack of financial resources. Since its inception in Montreal in 1909, the Last Post Fund has provided financial benefits to nearly 150,000 Veterans in need and their families.

Small Canadian flags planted by local group of Scouts adorn each military marker.		The Sentry Party.
The Military Band.	The Honour Guard.	Escorted by the piper: BGen Michael Hood and LPF National President, LCol Evelyn Kelly.
Reviewing the Band.	Reviewing the Honour Guard.	The Flag Party.
The Last Post played by the bugler.	The bugler playing Lament.	BGen Michael Hood laying a wreath.
Arthur ‘Chip’ Hair III, grandson of LPF founder Arthur Hair, laying a wreath.	Display of wreaths.	LCol Evelyn Kelly, LPF National President, meeting Veterans from the Ste. Anne-de-Bellevue Hospital.

The Last Post Fund on Facebook

14 June 2011 -- The Last Post Fund now has its very own Facebook page. This new communication tool aims to inform you on our activities and programs. You will also find photos of our commemorative ceremonies as well as vintage photos on the development of our organization.

Come and visit us by simply clicking on this Facebook logo.

If you like our Page, please let us know by clicking on the “Like” button at the top.

Have a great visit!

The Last Post Fund Governing Council for 2011-2012

As of 7 June 2011, the Last Post Fund Governing Council members are: First row, left to right, LCol Kenneth Garbutt (Vice-President West); LGen Lou Cuppens (Past National President); LCol Evelyn Kelly (National President); LCol Daniel O’Connor (Vice-President East); and RAdm Barry Keeler (Honorary Treasurer). Second row, Jean-Pierre Goyer (Executive Director – non member); Derek Sullivan (Veterans Affairs Canada); A/Comm Gerald Leahy, (President, Newfoundland & Labrador); MGen Edward Fitch (President, British Colombia); LCol Yves Martin (Vice-President, Last Post Fund National Field of Honour); LCdr David Yeo (President, New Brunswick & PEI); and Capt Gordon Criggar (President, Manitoba & Saskatchewan). Third row, BGen William Buckham standing for Col William Fletcher (President, Alberta), Cmdre Jean-Claude Michaud (President, Québec); LCol Michel Crowe (Last Post Fund Legal Advisor); and LCol Raymond Mikkola (President, Ontario).

Last Post Fund Annual Commemorative Ceremonies

4 May 2011 – Every year in early June, the Last Post Fund organizes commemorative ceremonies to pay tribute to Canadian and Allied Veterans—marine, aviation and army—that have so valiantly defended the values ​​dear to our country. These ceremonies will be held on Sunday, 5 June on the St. Lawrence River, as well as cemeteries Notre-Dame-des-Neiges and Mount Royal, but especially at the Last Post Fund National Field of Honour in Pointe-Claire, QC.   You are cordially invited to this very moving ceremony. They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them. (Excerpt from the poem For the Fallen  by Laurence Binyon (1869-1943) recited worldwide at commemorative services)

 At the National Field of Honour, starting at 2 :30 p.m.

• Marching in of the Band, the Guard of Honour, and the Royal Canadian Legion Colour Parties towards the Currie Circle.
• Arrival of Guest of Honour Brigadier-General Michael Hood, Director General, Air Force Development, Canadian Forces, preceded by the Piper. BGen Hood is accompanied by LCol (Ret’d) Evelyn Kelly, Last Post Fund National President and Commodore (Ret’d) Jean-Claude Michaud, President of the Last Post Fund Québec Region.
• General Salute from the Guard of Honour to BGen Michael Hood.
• Review of the Guard of Honour, the Band and the Royal Canadian Legion Colour Party by BGen Hood.
• The Band plays the national anthem O Canada.

• Address by Guest of Honour, BGen Michael Hood.
• Prayers.
• The Bugler plays the Last Post.
• The Piper plays the Lament.
• One-round Gun Salute.
• Minute of silence in memory of deceased Canadian and Allied Veterans.
• Second one-round Gun Salute.
• The Bugler plays Reveille.
• The President of the Royal Canadian Legion Québec Command, Mr. Robert Groulx, reads the Binyon lines.
• Parade of the Piper, followed by the Royal Canadian Legion Colour Party, through the Field of Honour.
• Laying of commemorative wreaths.
• The Band plays O Canada.
• General Salute from the Guard of Honour to BGen Michael Hood.
• End of ceremony, around 4:30 p.m.
  
  
  

Going the Extra Mile to Provide Dignified Service to Veterans

3 May 2011 -- Since 1909, the Last Post Fund has been dedicated to ensuring that no Veteran is denied a dignified funeral and burial for lack of funds. What is meant by a “dignified” funeral and burial? It may take on different meanings in different cases. It could mean assisting a family when they are going through an extremely difficult time by offering compassion and advice or liaising with funeral homes and cemeteries to make sure that everything is arranged properly. In 2011, in Toronto, the Last Post Fund went even further…

We received a phone call from the morgue asking us to verify if a gentleman would be eligible under the Veterans Affairs Canada Funeral & Burial Program, a Program delivered by the Last Post Fund. He had no family in the area and essentially had no one to make his final arrangements. Time was of the essence and we started the process to verify military service. We were able to determine that he served during WW2 and step in to help.

We spoke with the land-lady from his small rooming house where he had been living. She said that Bill was a nice man who had mostly kept to himself. She had heard mention of a daughter at one point but had no information on how she could be reached. He had a couple of buddies from the local pub but they did not know his daughter’s contact information either.

The Last Post Fund contacted Rosar-Morrision Funeral Home & Chapel. Situated in an eclectic downtown neighbourhood in Toronto, it is nestled amongst newly built condominiums, mansions from the turn of the century, as well as a high number of rooming houses. They have assisted families from all walks of life and are particularly proud to provide services for Canadian Veterans.

We made funeral arrangements for Bill and worked with a local cemetery to ensure he had a proper resting place in their military section. Staff from the funeral home traveled to the cemetery where they met with Bill’s buddies who had come to the cemetery to give Bill a good send-off. The funeral director spoke of Bill’s service to his country before he was laid to rest in peace with his comrades. 

Normally a family handles the personal belongings of a Veteran but the funeral home called our office to let us know that Bill’s wallet was still there to be picked up. We discussed that we should go get it as perhaps it had information we could use to find out more about him.

Kept in his wallet behind his social insurance card and other identification was the corner ripped off an envelope that had the name of a lady whose surname matched his own. It appeared that he had carried this little piece of paper with him for years-could this be the name of his daughter of whom he spoke?

Darrell Marsh, the Last Post Fund Counsellor who assisted with his service, researched the name and address on the internet but there were no active listings or telephone numbers available. Then, using the street view option on “Google Earth” he found the building and noticed it was for an apartment over a tattoo parlour in New Brunswick.

He decided to call the shop from the sign in the window and see if he could get more information. The man who answered the phone said he had only been there a couple of years so he did not have information on the daughter but could give us the name and number for the owner of the property. On the second phone call we had more luck, this gentleman knew the Veteran personally; he was Bill’s cousin. He and the Veteran’s daughter had been searching for him in Ontario over the last few years.

Shortly afterwards we received a phone call from Bill’s daughter, she was crying and very emotional. We let her know about her father’s funeral and burial in a Veterans’ section and that we would be placing a grave marker to in honour of his service to Canada. It meant so much to her to know that her father had carried her information in his wallet and that he had had a nice service and would be commemorated properly. We sent her dad’s wallet to her so she could have the last of his personal possessions he had left behind.

Our founder, Arthur Hair, said that “to honour and protect in death seems but a small return to those who have protected their country in life.” We are proud to go the “extra mile” when necessary to continue the journey started by Arthur Hair so many years ago. While it may be difficult to define what comprises a “dignified” funeral and burial, the Last Post Fund has been providing this service for over 100 years. -- Jaime MacKinnon, LPF Ontario Regional Manager

A Last Post Fund Columbarium in Halifax

2 May 2011 – Most who served in Canada’s Military Forces, including the Reserve Forces, the Merchant Navy and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, are aware of the many places across the country where Generals now lie with Privates, those with Decorations beside others without battle acclaim and wealthy men and women with the penniless. These are the Fields of Honour and Columbariums operated by the Last Post Fund to provide a final resting place for our Veterans to be with their comrades.

Many however are not aware that these unique and beautiful resting places also allow the option to include an additional family member when making final arrangements, and that niches can be purchased by currently serving members of the Canadian Forces and the RCMP.

The  Last Post Fund in Nova Scotia owns and operates the Veterans’ Columbarium located at the Fairview Lawn Cemetery in Halifax. It offers the following advantages to those who may now contemplate to make arrangements for future peace of mind:

• Competitively priced niches with the option of full payment at time of purchase or by installments.
• Central location easily accessible for family and friends wishing to pay their respects.
• Niche includes opening and closing cost plus the engraving and perpetual care.
• Purchases will help provide funding for other Last Post Fund initiatives.  

For more information, contact the LPF Nova Scotia Office at 1 800 565-4777.

Jean-Pierre Goyer, New Executive Director of the Last Post Fund   22 December – Lieutenant-Colonel (Ret’d) Evelyn Kelly, National President of the Last Post Fund, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Jean-Pierre Goyer as Executive Director of the LPF, beginning on 4 January 2011.

The greatest part of Mr. Goyer’s long career has been committed to the service of the veterans community, namely at Veterans Affairs Canada where he worked from 1971 to 2009, acquiring and applying extensive management skills in the delivery of programs and services.

In 2007 and 2008, Mr. Goyer acted as Associate Regional Director at Veterans Affairs Canada’s Québec Regional Office. Based in Montreal, he oversaw the management of health care issues, disability programs and income support for the benefit of eligible civilians, members of the Canadian Forces and the RCMP, and their families. Working closely with the Regional Director General, he helped develop and establish regional priorities as well as the operational strategic planning. He also directed and managed the human, financial and material resources of the units under his authority.

Earlier on, from 1993 to 2007, Mr. Goyer was Québec’s Regional Director of Client Services, providing leadership, guidance, functional and operational support to the staff responsible for the delivery of Veterans Affairs’ programs and services.   

In 2004, Jean-Pierre Goyer received a Leadership Award from Veterans Affairs Canada. Also, he and his team were granted an Award of Excellence for the successful implementation of the New Veterans Charter launched in 2006.

The Montreal-born new Executive Director of the Last Post Fund is fully bilingual, having always worked in both official languages. He is married to Johanne Dubé since 1976 and they have two children, Stéphanie and Pierre-André.