The latest recipient of the Order of Cochrane moved here when his wife informed him she had just put a down payment on a house in town, and stayed a few decades later when his family told him they loved him but didn’t want to leave.
Brian Winter’s distinguished career as a paramedic and fire chief was recognized by Council Monday evening as they presented him with the Order of Cochrane.
Throughout the process, those submitting nominations are asked to identify how the nominee exemplifies Cochrane's vision; how the nominee demonstrates leadership to achieve that vision, and what has the nominee done to create a lasting legacy in the development of the community.
Recipients are individuals who best exemplify a vision that is innovative, bold and dynamic.
Winter is active as the chair of the Cochrane EMS Crisis Citizens Action Group (CAG) and also as chair of the Cochrane and Area Health Foundation.
The Foundation is a non-profit charitable body, formed to improve the quality, provision and access to health care in the Cochrane area. They raise funds, educate and advocate for improvements.
“Acting as a firefighter, EMS and emergency medical support worker, Brian’s dedication to Cochrane and the safety services has been immeasurable for the community,” said the Town’s news release.
In his announcement of Winter as the recipient of the award, Mayor Jeff Genung said he exemplified everything the Order of Cochrane stands for.
“As a citizen of Cochrane for over forty-nine years, Mr. Winter has dedicated himself to serving our community and ensuring the safety of many,” Genung said. “We are profoundly grateful for his unwavering contributions to Cochrane.”
“Serving as Fire Chief and Chief Paramedic for many years, Winter worked to enhance efficiencies, safety, communication and education throughout Cochrane. His commitment to volunteering extends beyond his previous official duties, as he often steps up to help without being asked. Brian's dedication includes teaching adult education classes, advocating for health care and ambulance availability as well as proposing a paramedic system for Cochrane,” he said.
“Brian has been a dedicated member of our community and embodies the spirit of the Order of Cochrane award,” Genung said.
The CAG has been a tireless advocate for EMS reforms in Cochrane, appearing numerous times before council and around town at community events.
Winter was awarded the Alberta Fire Service Exemplary Service Medal in 2006, before retiring in 2007.
“Brian, you are admired and loved in our community,” Genung said.
Winter said he knew his wife Ginny was ‘the one’ after an incident in high school. The couple were sent to the principal’s office for breaking the school’s ban on holding hands. As they left the office after the scolding, Ginny grabbed his hand.
‘I knew then she was a keeper,” he said.
They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, and have made Cochrane home almost all of that time.
When he moved here Cochrane’s population was 900.
He started with the Cochrane Fire department in 1979, and became Chief in 1982.
Friend and fellow health care advocate Dr. Dennis Fundytus has worked closely with Winter.
“Brian has Cochrane in his heart,” Fundytus said outside the council chamber after the ceremony. “His goal is to make Cochrane a better place.”
