Launch of Celebrating Canadian Veterans and Their Passions Series – A Powerful Tribute to WWII Veteran Roland Lalonde
In Partnership with Perley Health Foundation
On February 25, 2025, Beechwood Cemetery, in collaboration with the Perley Health Foundation, successfully launched its new series, Celebrating Canadian Veterans and Their Passions, with an evening dedicated to honouring 102-year-old WWII veteran and artist, Roland Lalonde.
The event marked the beginning of an initiative aimed at commemorating Canadian veterans by highlighting the talents and passions that have shaped their legacies.
The evening featured an inspiring exhibition of Mr. Lalonde’s artwork, vividly capturing his experiences during the Second World War in Europe. His paintings offered a poignant narrative of his wartime journey, serving as a testament to the enduring power of art in preserving history and conveying personal reflection. In a moving address to attendees, Mr. Lalonde shared his personal reflections, providing valuable insight into his life as a soldier and his transition to an artist. He spoke candidly about how painting became his means of healing and honouring his experiences, resonating deeply with the audience.
The event was attended by a diverse audience, including veterans, art enthusiasts, community leaders, and supporters of Perley Health and Beechwood Cemetery. The atmosphere was one of reverence and admiration as guests connected with Mr. Lalonde’s story and explored his vivid interpretations of history through art. This inaugural event successfully set the tone for the Celebrating Canadian Veterans and Their Passions series, showcasing the power of storytelling through artistic expression and its role in preserving Canada’s military history.
Beechwood Cemetery extends its heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Roland Lalonde for sharing his remarkable story and to Perley Health Foundation for their invaluable partnership. This event marks the first of many in this inspiring series, which aims to celebrate the passions that define the legacies of Canadian veterans. Future events will continue to honour veterans by showcasing their stories, talents, and contributions.
Stay connected for announcements about upcoming events in this series.