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Pergola dedicated to memory of Marg McLaren

MAIDSTONE — Maidstone Communities in Bloom recently dedicated a pergola in Memory Lane Park to the work and commitment of Marg McLaren in the Maidstone area. Family and friends were present for the ceremony Sept. 29.
Pergola

MAIDSTONE — Maidstone Communities in Bloom recently dedicated a pergola in Memory Lane Park to the work and commitment of Marg McLaren in the Maidstone area.

Family and friends were present for the ceremony Sept. 29. Gill Churn, a friend, gave the following tribute:

“I think this quote is appropriate and describes how many of us feel about Marg. ‘Some people come into our lives and quickly go, some stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts and our community and we are never the same’.

“Who was Marg McLaren? She was a wife, mother, grandmother, a very loyal friend, a dedicated community volunteer and at times, when she had a project in mind, a pain!

“Marg was a member of several community organizations and at some time was president of most of them: the Maidstone Healthcare Auxiliary, Halfway Campground committee, Maidstone Quilting Squares, Maidstone Cemetery committee, United Church Women, Daffodils for Cancer campaign and Communities in Bloom.

“‘No, I don’t have time’ wasn’t in her vocabulary. She was always researching for new projects and didn’t stop until they were completed. She had energy to burn. There were many mornings when we would wake up and pray for her to sleep in!

“Marg could be seen cruising the streets day or night in her burgundy half ton, checking things out, watering plants or strutting down the streets with her back pack sprayer attacking weeds.

“Marg McLaren passed away Oct. 15, 2017. Communities in Bloom decided to rejuvenate Memory Lane Park this summer and erect a pergola in Marg’s memory. This was made possible by the generosity of the community who held Marg in high esteem. We would like to thank those who gave their time, donated money, equipment and supplies. We also have a new arbor donated by the United Church Women in memory of their longtime member Marg McLaren.

“I would like Mayor Bennan Becotte to come forward and read the plaque dedicating the pergola to Marg.”

The plaque reads:

 “They say a person’s actions speak louder than words and your actions have always spoken of integrity, goodness, love and devotion. What a wonderful difference you have made in our community. In memory of Marg McLaren. 1948 – 2017.”

The mayor paid tribute to Marg as a community builder who will be greatly missed.

The park now has a new gravel surface, vinyl fence, arbor and the pergola. Memory Lane Park is now a lasting tribute to Marg McLaren and other individuals who are lovingly missed by friends and family.