Raymonde Riopel is a woman who practically defines Morinville’s history.
The 90-year-old was born here to one of the founding families and she’s lived here all her life — in the family home no less — not to mention she has been a long-time volunteer and prominent figure with the Morinville Historical and Cultural Society. It’s only appropriate then she should get Morinville’s first Legacy Award.
“It meant a lot to me,” the nonagenarian professed about the distinction. “I feel really honoured and grateful. Having taught two generations of Morinville children, I’m deeply attached to this community that I love so much.”
She said she is sharing the award with her father, her grandfather and great-grandfather who were successful Morinville businessmen. Her father, Joseph Perras, was three years old when his family arrived with Father Jean-Baptiste Morin in 1893. Perhaps because of her deep roots in the town, she has dedicated herself to the preservation and promotion of the town’s rich legacy through the Morinville Historical and Cultural Society.
She taught for 45 years starting in 1940 and married Roland Riopel in 1946. Together, they raised five children. Despite her duties as a mother, wife and teacher, she still managed to run a successful insurance business for 25 years and volunteer with groups like Les Femmes Christien and the Catholic Women’s League. Upon her retirement, she became a school trustee for the Thibault School District and has always been active at St. Jean Baptiste Church. She has served on various town committees and occasionally acts as a consultant.
Lil Boddez nominated Riopel for the Legacy Award, which was handed out during the 25th annual Volunteer Appreciation Evening on Friday, May 27 at the newly completed Morinville Community Cultural Centre. Boddez talked about how Riopel not only had a rightful place in history but that she also earned it through hard work and dedication.
“She was and still is a grand lady and truly is one of the best ambassadors that the Town of Morinville can have,” Boddez stated in her address to the gathering at the ceremony.
During a phone interview yesterday, she put it much more plainly. “She’s very deserving,” she laughed, her remark notably downplayed.
“Her prime concern is her family and then her town. Morinville is very, very dear to her. She certainly is an ambassador for the town.”
