County of Renfrew honours 2026 Warden’s Community Service Award recipients

The 2026 Warden’s Community Service Awards were presented at the Renfrew County Council meeting November 12. Warden Jennifer Murphy (left) and Councillor James Brose (right), Chair of the Development and Property Committee presented the awards to Marek and Nadya Felhaber representing Ben Hokum and Son Limited in the Business Category; Melanie Freeman in the Not-for-Profit Category and Gillan Rutz in the Individual Category.

Three outstanding community contributors were recognized with the 2026 Warden’s Community Service Awards during the final session of the current County of Renfrew Council term on November 12.

Presented annually, the Warden’s Community Service Awards recognize individuals, not-for-profit organizations and businesses whose volunteerism, leadership, generosity and community service help make Renfrew County a better place to live, work and play.

The 2026 recipients were Melanie Freeman in the Not-for-Profit category, Ben Hokum & Son Limited in the Business category and Gillan Rutz in the Individual category.

Melanie Freeman was recognized for her commitment to improving the lives of fellow seniors at Carefor Pembroke-Renfrew County. In 2025, her Care for Seniors with Melanie campaign raised $20,000, surpassing its $12,000 goal, while she walked 325,000 steps in support of recreation equipment and programming. Her efforts continue in 2026 through the March with Melanie campaign, which runs until December 24. The goal is to raise funds and encourage community involvement while she continues to volunteer her time to help fellow residents stay active and connected.

For 70 years, Ben Hokum & Son Limited has demonstrated a strong commitment to its community. To mark its 70th anniversary, the company made a $70,000 donation to the Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation and has also supported St. Francis Memorial Hospital, the Ontario Winter Games hosted by Renfrew County and numerous community events. Led by President Dean Felhaber and the Felhaber family, the North Algona Wilberforce business employs approximately 130 people.

For more than 50 years, Gillan Rutz has shared the music, stories and history of Renfrew County through performances at community events, seniors’ celebrations, retirement residences, hospitals and other gatherings. An author, supporter of emerging local performers and proud ambassador for Petawawa and the Ottawa Valley, he has dedicated decades to preserving and celebrating the region’s culture and traditions. 

Following the awards presentation, Renfrew County Warden Jennifer Murphy congratulated the recipients and thanked them for their dedication to their communities.

“The Warden’s Community Service Awards celebrate the people and organizations whose generosity, leadership and commitment make Renfrew County such a special place to call home,” Warden Murphy said. “Melanie Freeman, Gillan Rutz and Ben Hokum & Son Limited have each found their own way to strengthen their communities and improve the lives of others. On behalf of County Council, I congratulate them and thank them for the lasting difference they continue to make.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Craig Kelley            Chief Administrative Officer                            613-735-7288

Tina Peplinskie       Media Relations Coordinator                          613-735-7288