Derm English has been named Castlegar's 2024 Citizen of the Year by the Knights of Columbus.
English has been a dedicated volunteer to a number of causes since he first arrived in Castlegar 30 years ago, but he is probably best known for his work with Castlegar Sunfest.
With 30 years of involvement in Castlegar's premier festival, English has served in almost every role available from spending countless hours selling 50/50 tickets to taking charge as the parade director and president of the committee.
"Derm is consistent, reliable, and is perseverant," said Patrick Audet, one of the people who nominated him. "Derm is never hesitant to put in the time to do things right."
English has also been involved in Winterfest, Spring Fling, the Pass Creek Fall Fair, the Fire Department Toy Drive and served as president of the local Rotary club.
For many years, English has been Santa's helper, dressing up in an elf costume, giving out candy to kids at schools and shut-ins at care homes.
"Derm loves to stay busy and if it involves community spirit he will be there to take part in the action," said Audet.
English says he was shocked when he found out he had been nominated as Citizen of the Year.
He started volunteering for Sunfest almost from the very first day he moved to Castlegar. He says its a principle that he learned as a child, volunteering beside his parents as they worked to make their community a better place.
"It was part of the family thing to do," said English.
It is also a tradition he is passing on to his own children. English's daughter has now taken over the role of Sunfest president.
English will be recognized at a ceremony on June 4 at 7 p.m. at the Saint Rita's Church Hall (513 7th Ave.) It takes place in the middle of one of his busiest weeks of the year – Sunfest!
English joins a list of hard-working honourees including community-focused educators and volunteers Mike and Brenda Balahura (2023), educator and youth advocate Kay Jones (2022), seniors advocate Sandi McCreight (2021) choir leader Christina Nolan (2018), life-long volunteers Jim and Inga Lamont (2017), Castlegar Homecoming organizer Bette Jean Lutz (2016) and Pass Creek Park/Fair volunteers Irene and Don Hill (2014).
