Renaissance Lac-brome recognizes outstanding members at AGM

Each year Renaissance Lac-brome (RLB) makes a point of recognizing people who have made strong contributions to the community.

This year two individuals were acknowleged by the organization during its annual general meeting held on May 12 at the TBL Community Centre in Knowlton.

Marc E. Decelles was paid tribute posthumously in the presence of his widow, Micheline Croteau, by Pierre Beaudoin, secretary of the organization. Gary Richards lauded Foster resident Edward A. Whitcher.

Marc E. Decelles

With his widow Micheline Croteau present, it was an emotional tribute to Marc E. Decelles for his long-standing commitment to defending the quality of water in Brome Lake and its wetlands. Beaudoin said that Decelles was unsurpassed as a ‘lifetime’ local environmental leader and one of the most eminent citizens in the region, devoted to protecting the quality of water in Brome Lake and its wetlands.

“We are grateful to pay tribute to his memory in the presence of his partner, Micheline Croteau, who supported him throughout all his endeavours.” Beaudoin described Croteau as being a strong volunteer herself for many community causes including contributing to the local monthly news bulletin, Tempo. “We owe you both this debt of gratitude.”

After 11 years as part-time resident, Decelles made the leap to become a permanent one in the area in 1987. Amongst many other projects, he served as president of Brome Lake Conservation and was always been deeply involved with the community as a defender of the lake and its wetlands, a promoter of public spaces and an active member of the Brome County Historical Society and Renaissance Lac-brome

Beaudoin said that Decelles had a clear vision when it came to what he thought was good for the lake. He was never reserved about letting people know what he thought. “Decelles frequently took on difficult files that nobody else would touch.” Known to be a fiery debater with a no-nonsense, forthright and straight-to-the-point approach that often caused many to recoil when he got right to the point, he always