Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby, Awards Whitby and Ajax Community Leaders with King Charles III Coronation Medals

August 6, 2025

News | August 6, 2025

WHITBY — Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence, and Security was proud to award four Whitby and five Ajax residents with the King Charles III Coronation Medal for their extraordinary work and contributions within the community, during a ceremony at the Centennial Building in Whitby last Wednesday evening.

The King Charles III Coronation Medal recipients were presented to:
• Ivan Dawns, Political Director, International Union of Painters & Allied Trades
• Peter Dundas, Former Paramedic Chief, Peel Region
• Eva Reti, Chair, Hospice Whitby – Roger Anderson House
• Kevin Gibbs, PARA Marine Search and Rescue
• Waqqas Syed, President, Islamic Society of Ajax
• Balliram Chadee, Founder and Spiritual Leader, Hanuman Mission in Ajax
• Fredrica Walters, Lead Pastor, Christian Faith Outreach Centre Ajax
o Medal accepted by her daughter Marsha Walters
• Rene Soetens, Former Member of the House of Commons of Canada, Former
Council Member, Town of Ajax, and President & Owner of Con-Test
• Elaine Gardner, Case Coordinator – Settlement Team, Income, Employment and
Homelessness Supports Division (IEHSD) Social Services Department, Regional
Municipality of Durham Long-time Community Advocate for Whitby, Michael McClellan, was also a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal but was unable to attend the ceremony.

“It is meaningful to be able to honour these inspiring individuals for their dedication to strengthening their communities. I am incredibly grateful and congratulate each of these leaders for their contributions as they continue to push the boundaries of what is possible,” said Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence, and Security. “Our communities thrive because of the everyday heroes who dedicate their time and energy to helping others and shaping a brighter future.”
The King Charles III Coronation Medal was created to mark His Majesty’s coronation and is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions in their community. Receiving this medal is a prestigious honour, recognizing unwavering dedication and local impact.

QUICK FACTS

• The King Charles Coronation Medal is awarded to individuals who have made
exemplary contributions within their communities.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Eric Hutchins
Office Manager
Lorne Coe
MPP Whitby
Lorne.coeco@pc.ola.org
905-430-1141