SHAWVILLE Sept. 13, 2017
In the summer of 2017, the Pontiac lost three really good men in Jack Lang, Bryan Murray and David Holmes. These men were all pillars of the local community. That one word says it all and describes all of these men. Bryan Murray’s influence spread far beyond the national scene while David and Jack were fixtures of the local scene. I had the privilege of knowing all of these fine men.

While Bryan’s fame spread internationally, he remained loyal to his roots. One could always have a chat with him and he would enthrall his listeners with hockey stories. He always said he wished to be remembered as a ‘good hockey man’ but also as a ‘pretty good person.’ Beyond the hockey world, look at how many lives Bryan may have saved by encouraging others to get a check-up for colon cancer.
Jack Lang did so much for the Pontiac as a mayor, councillor, agricultural board member, etc. The Fair Board did a nice tribute to Jack this year recognizing his years of service. Who can forget Jack’s good natured ribbing of the referees – “Come on ref!” – at local hockey matches. Elaine was a good friend of my “Betty.” I taught all of her boys, Ian, Paul and Mark. All of these boys will make a difference in the lives of others thanks to Jack and Elaine.
I probably knew David Holmes better than the others, teaching with him from 1975 to 2002 when I retired. He was a fine man, respected by all in the farming community and teaching profession. Students and staff alike looked up to “Big Dave Holmes.” Dave always saw the potential in students and steered many kids in the right direction when others had given up on them. I had the privilege and honour of giving David Holmes eulogy on Aug. 26 at the Lutheran Church of Ladysmith.
All of these men made a huge difference in the Pontiac before being stricken by cancer. We are going to greatly miss all these men but our presence at the Terry Fox Run would certainly do them honour.
The 2017 Terry Fox Run will take place at Pontiac High School on Sunday Sept. 17 at 2 p.m. Registration occurs between 1-2 p.m. This is the 35th consecutive year in Shawville. There will be water stations along the 10 km route and the course will be patrolled by the Sûreté du Québec.
On Sunday Sept. 17, please support the annual Terry Fox Run with your presence. We can honour these good men by not only taking part, but keeping alive Terry Fox’s dream of finding a cure for cancer. Medically, progress is being made in many areas. Please come and bring your friends. The more people we get to cross the starting line, the closer we get to making Terry’s dream come true.
See you on the 17th.
Submitted by John Petty