CORNWALL, Ontario – When the two Lalonde brothers who went into public life look around the city park that one day soon will carry the name of their late father Ray, one thing comes to mind.
“It’s like dad is back with us,’ said Todd Lalonde.
Ray Lalonde, an alderman in Cornwall from 1979 to 1994 and community volunteer who passed away nearly five years ago at age 73, will be immortalized by having a park on Blossom Drive renamed in his honour.
While the move has not yet been officially approved by city council, all indications are the municipal rubber stamp will follow a report on the matter which is expected in the weeks to come.
“Cornwall has always been a strong community based on volunteers,” said Todd, who has followed his father’s footsteps into public life as a Catholic school board trustee. “Any time you get to see your father recognized, it’s overwhelming.”
Todd’s brother Perry was a city councillor in the 1990s too.
“I was proud for my father,” Perry said. “I think it is well deserved.
“When I would campaign with my dad you would see all these people who would come up to him and liked him.
“Everyone liked Ray.”
Blossom Park is located on Blossom Drive in the city’s east end. It includes play structures for children.
Ray’s family also includes his wife Merita and sons Rick and Kevin Lalonde.
