Recipients of the “highest honour bestowed upon a citizen by the town” said they were “surprised” upon receiving the award.
The Cochrane Community Awards awarded the Order of Cochrane to Betty and Denis Goodsell earlier this year recognizing their longtime dedication to helping sustain the community.
“We didn’t know what we were getting, we didn’t even know what we were nominated for,” Betty said.
“I was amazed and surprised.”
Longtime residents of Cochrane, the Goodsells moved to the community in the late ‘70s where they have since become “staples of the community” as described by Mayor Ivan Brooker.
“I have known these people for 37 years so this is a real treat for me,” said Brooker at the award ceremony.
It was an emotional presentation as attendees and Brooker were moved to tears during the award announcement.
“Since moving to Cochrane in 1977, both Betty and Denis have participated in many local services in Cochrane.
“They were founding members of the Active 20/30 Club. Betty has been a founding member of Cochrane Activettes, Cochrane FCSS and the Cochrane & United Way Partnership Committee which supports local organizations,” the nomination read.
“Denis is famous for helping Betty in whatever she takes on … Denis spent countless hours as a volunteer coach. Together, and individually, this couple has contributed significantly to making Cochrane a better place to live.”
Denis also played a part in helping initiate minor baseball, girls softball and the Cochrane Generals, where he took on all the different roles from player to coach for 25 years.
“We have been (involved) with the community for so long – my dad died when I was young and I had a neighbour that would always stop by and was always there for me, and you remember people like that,” Denis said.
Betty said they were proud to be a part of many grassroots organizations in town and they are extremely proud to see some of those organizations as major staples in the town now.
“Anyone that wants to volunteer you get back 10 times what you put out,” Betty said.
The Goodsell’s, who have made Cochrane their home over the past four decades, said they have no plans to leave the community.
“We couldn’t find another place like this – we wouldn’t even think about leaving,” Betty said.
The Goodsells were awarded with the Order of Cochrane after being nominated by residents and chosen by a selection committee.
