Calgary Honors Seven Seniors for Outstanding Achievements Over 70

Seven remarkable seniors have been recognized for their significant contributions to Calgary after the age of 70 as part of the ninth annual Top 7 Over 70 awards. The awards program celebrates individuals who utilize their wealth of experience and knowledge to enhance the community. In addition to the seven honorees, the event also includes a Special Achievement Award.

The chair of the Top 7 Over 70 executive committee, Steve Allan, emphasized the importance of older adults in the community, stating, “There’s no shortage of older adults who significantly improve our city every day.” Allan highlighted their impactful roles across various fields, including business, education, science, social enterprises, arts, and sports.

Profiles of the Honorees

Among the distinguished recipients, Jackie Bromley, 74, stands out as an elder from the Kainai Blood Tribe. She is one of five First Nations grandmothers who founded the Grandmothers’ Wisdom Network, a group focused on passing down teachings to younger generations. Bromley is an active advocate for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, as well as promoting the inclusion of the Blackfoot language in schools.

At 78, Alf Fischer has significantly contributed to infrastructure development in rural communities, enhancing access to essential services such as water, power, and communication. Gerry Darichuk, also 78, serves as a president of a local Rotary club, where he has led initiatives to support Ukrainian evacuees, including fundraising and the establishment of support programs. Darichuk has personally traveled to Ukraine to deliver medical supplies and assist in rebuilding hospitals.

Another notable honoree is Marvin Fritzler, 81, a leader and researcher in the medical field. Fritzler has conducted pivotal research into autoimmune diseases, with current projects focusing on COVID-19, juvenile arthritis, and lupus. His contributions have advanced understanding in critical areas of health.

Esmail Bharwani, 84, has made a profound impact on education by providing over 500 post-secondary scholarships through a foundation he established to support under-represented groups, including single parents and Indigenous students. Neil Webber, 89, is the founder of Webber Academy, a prominent university preparatory school in southwest Calgary, where he continues to serve as president, overseeing recent expansions.

Finally, Ron Freckleton, 92, is a dedicated advocate for dementia and Alzheimer’s awareness. Having lost his wife to Alzheimer’s, he raises funds for related charities through his “Adopt-a-Dahlia” program, which he operates at his residence.

Acknowledging Special Contributions

The recipient of the Special Achievement Award is Lois Mitchell, a former lieutenant governor of Alberta. Her recent accomplishments include her appointment as the president of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, reflecting her ongoing commitment to community and environmental issues.

The Top 7 Over 70 awards originated in Calgary and have expanded to include branches in Southeastern Alberta and Atlantic Canada, highlighting the influence and contributions of seniors across the nation. This year’s honorees exemplify the spirit of resilience and dedication that enriches the community, proving that age is no barrier to making a difference.