CANDACE WU
news@pqbnews.com
Errington’s volunteer fire department has some pretty amazing members.
Recently, longtime Errington residents George Klemm and Patti Whittaker were recognized by their peers for their outstanding efforts with the fire hall. Klemm received the Governor General’s Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal for 40 years of volunteering and Whittaker received similar recognition for 20 years of service on the board of directors.
“It’s a progressive department,” said Whittaker. “And I feel fortunate to be a small part of the progress.”
Whittaker has been instrumental in raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for the department. Though she’s humble about her contribution, her hard work doesn’t go unnoticed.
“A big reason I’m part of the department is because of community,” said Whittaker. “Just to be able to do something in your own neighborhood is really important.”
Klemm, whose been on the front line for 40 years and has the number two fire hall named after him, said he finds a lot of satisfaction in just helping people.
From barn fires to forest fires to rescuing neighbors and friends, Klemm said he’s happy to give back to the community of Errington.
“It’s a really giving community here,” he said. “People really look after each other.”
