Community Pioneers at the Heart of CDEM’s 25th anniversary

As part of our 25th anniversary celebrations, CDEM presents the Reconnaissance de pionniers (Pioneer Recognition) which highlights the outstanding achievements of individuals and their contribution to the development of their community.

From October 22 to 28, CDEM representatives organized small ceremonies to plant a tree and inaugurate a commemorative plaque in honour of each pioneer in their home community.

Diane Dubé, St. Georges

President of the CDC in St. Georges, Diane Dubé has contributed enormously to the economic development of her region. A woman with great vision, she has contributed to large-scale projects such as the Winnipeg River Heritage Museum, Allard Library, the community school, among others.

Paul Grenier, St. Léon

Former president of CDEM from 2009 to 2013, Paul Grenier is a man of conviction. He is a great strategist and has contributed to major economic projects such as the wind farms, the railway line and the St. Joseph Museum.

*At the time of publishing this article, it is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Paul Grenier. Our deepest sympathies to his family.

Jeannot Robert, Ste. Agathe (posthumous)

A great builder, Jeannot Robert played an important role in the renewal of the village of Sainte-Agathe after the flood of 1997 and the residential development of the area.

Rénald Parent, St. Joseph

Rénald Parent successfully started and established Parent Seed Farms in St. Joseph and helped develop the entrepreneurial culture of CDEM. He was the President of the Board of Directors of CDEM from 2000 to 2002.

George Rajotte, Winnipeg

A seasoned businessman, George Rajotte has been at the helm of various companies, including WISL. He is also known for his generosity, contributing to many causes such as the St. Boniface Hospital and businesses that helped finance community projects.

Gilbert Robert, Winnipeg (posthumous)

Gilbert Robert’s entrepreneurial influence extends across the country. He co-founded the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) and was a major advisor for tourism development in Manitoba.

Previous Recipients:

2003      Robert Bockstael, Saint-Boniface

2003      Alfred Roy, Saint-Jean-Baptiste

2003      Albert Vielfaure,  La Broquerie

2003      Gérard Tétrault,   La Broquerie

2006      Edmond et Omer Boulet, Somerset

2006      Hubert Brodeur et famille, Saint-Adolphe

2006      Dr Francis Patrick Doyle,  Sainte-Anne

2006      Fernand Lavergne, Saint-Pierre-Jolys

2006      Raynald Labossière, Saint-Léon

2010      André Collet et Gilles Collet, Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes

2010      Famille Albani Gallant, Letellier

2010      Famille Rose et Emery Mulaire, Saint-Pierre-Jolys

2013      Raymond Poirier, Saint-Adolphe

2013      Soeurs Grises du Manitoba

2013      Henri Baudry, Sainte-Agathe