Clara Thompson (Milne)

Clara was born in Mountain, Ontario in 1941. She was raised on a dairy farm, and she soon learned a strong work ethic, dedication to family and most importantly, integrity. In her younger years, Clara was an avid bowler and a championship ball player. She married Don and had a family of 3 boys. While raising her own three children in almost every sport imaginable, she still found energy to help or assist every other child in the community.

Clara converted her athleticism into leadership roles or organizational positions. She always started at the bottom of any committee or organization and rose to the top, thus making her a knowledgeable and respected leader. Whether it was her numerous years in 4H as a Leader, an Executive member of the United Church Women’s Group (UCW), the Registrar of the Kemptville Minor Ball, her countless years as a KDMHA Executive, or on the UCMHL Executive, Clara’s interests became her passions.

She served her community to the best of her ability for over 40 years. Before the era of computers and smart phones she answered every call, no matter the hour of the day. Her dedication went far above the call of duty. Clara was a very vocal executive member and parent who stood for what was right. She took great pride and cherished the success of any team or individual in her community, but never wanted to be in the spotlight herself. Recognition for Clara’s hard work came in many forms: Long Service Award (UCMHL), Citizen of the Year (Oxford-On-Rideau), and the ‘Clara Thompson Memorial’ – the Hardest Working Player Award, (Rideau St. Lawrence Kings Organization) and the Kemptville 73’s Clara Thompson Memorial Award.

Clara’s goal was to mentor and promote an organization that provided a fair and safe environment for children to develop and play. Most importantly she wanted to instill her passion for sports and community in others and was a huge success in getting people involved.

Clara is being awarded posthumously this award in recognition of her strength of character and dedication to building quality community sports programs.