The city of Rosemère was filled with pride and emotion on Saturday evening, May 3, as residents gathered to celebrate the recipients of the 2025 Honoured Citizen Awards—an event that has become a cherished local tradition since its inception in 2017. This year’s honourees, comprising three individuals and one community organization, were recognized for their exceptional dedication to improving life in Rosemère across a wide spectrum of activities.
Held during a formal ceremony, the evening saw an outpouring of admiration and gratitude for the awardees, each of whom was invited on stage to receive a certificate, a trophy, and the heartfelt applause of a community they’ve long served. In keeping with tradition, each recipient was also invited to sign Rosemère’s prestigious Golden Book, an honour reserved for those who have left a lasting impact on the town.
“Tonight, we have the privilege of celebrating some very special Rosemerites and a wonderful community organization whose determination, energy, kindness and leadership make them the pride of our town,” said Mayor Eric Westram in his address. “To our cherished Honoured Citizens, you are our most important ambassadors, and you have gone above and beyond in elevating the stature of our town.”
Among those honoured was Éric Ledoux, recognized in the Sports category for his unwavering dedication to youth soccer. A fixture on the soccer fields of Rosemère and the surrounding region for years, Ledoux has not only coached but also mentored generations of young athletes, instilling in them values of teamwork, perseverance, and community spirit.
Alain Brunet, honoured in the Humanitarian category, was applauded for his long-standing commitment to volunteerism, both in Rosemère and at the broader MRC Thérèse-De Blainville level. His behind-the-scenes efforts have supported countless initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents, particularly the most vulnerable.
The Community category award was presented to Meals on Wheels, a cornerstone of local support for more than four decades. The organization, powered largely by volunteers, has provided hot meals, companionship, and a sense of security to Rosemère’s elderly and isolated populations—a role that has only grown more vital in recent years.
This year’s Yvan Deschênes Award, named after one of the town’s most influential former mayors, went to Pierre Hardy. A tireless advocate for youth engagement, Hardy has spent decades working with young people in Rosemère and surrounding communities, fostering their development through education, mentorship, and outreach. His work has touched countless lives and helped shape the future of the town one young person at a time.
Established as a biennial tradition, the Honoured Citizen Awards encompass 11 nomination categories, including Culture, Environment, Youth, Business, Education, Science, and Posthumous contributions. The Yvan Deschênes Award was added in 2019 to recognize exceptional leadership and community impact, in memory of the former mayor whose legacy still resonates throughout Rosemère.
The atmosphere at Saturday’s event was equal parts celebratory and intimate, with friends, family members, elected officials, and community leaders joining together to applaud the accomplishments of their neighbours. While each story shared was unique, the common thread was a deep commitment to community and a passion for giving back.
As the evening came to a close, it was clear that the true spirit of Rosemère lies not only in its quiet streets or green spaces but in the people who dedicate themselves to making it a better place—one act of service at a time. The 2025 Honoured Citizens now take their place among a growing list of local legends whose efforts continue to shape the heart and soul of the town.
