Hazel Awde paid tribute to her late husband with legacy gifts to many of the organizations he supported as a volunteer.

Hazel’s late husband Murray (d. Dec 23, 1998) served on the Foundation’s Board of Directors in the 1980s and early 1990s, serving as Chair of our Publicity Committee. His role in promoting conservation was invaluable at a time when the Foundation had no staff members and relied entirely on the skill sets of volunteers. Luckily for the Foundation, Murray sold advertising for CKOC before retiring and was a well-known figure among local media outlets, making him a perfect fit for the Publicity Committee.

Known by his colleagues and peers as “Mr. Volunteer,” Murray volunteered for dozens of local organizations. In addition to volunteering with the Foundation Board, he served as a canvasser for the Canadian Cancer Society for 30 years, chaired the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal, volunteered with Wesley Urban Ministries, was honored for his volunteer service by the Sertoma Club of Hamilton and was active in the Ryerson United church congregation.

Murray’s late widow Hazel was equally involved in Ryerson United Church and chose to show her love of the wider Hamilton community through her estate.

Hazel left gifts in her estate to several of the charities Murray supported with his volunteerism, including the Foundation.