On August 23, the Vermilion community members gathered at Webb’s Ford to celebrate the 90th birthday of Herb Jamieson, a man whose life story is as rich and diverse as the community he has long called home. Herb’s family organized a heartwarming come-and-go lunch, where guests enjoyed sandwiches, wraps, a cheese and meat platter, and a delightful array of cupcakes, all in honour of a man who has lived an extraordinary life.
Herb was born on August 23, 1934, in Okanagan Landing, British Columbia. At the age of 20, Herb took a significant step that would shape the rest of his life—he joined the Canadian Air Force. His first posting took him to Saint-Jean, Quebec, and he later attended Trade School at Canadian Forces Base Borden in Ontario, honing skills that would serve him well in his future endeavours.
Herb’s journey with the Air Force eventually brought him to the 4 Wing Canadian Forces Base in Cold Lake in 1973. It was here that he spent six formative years teaching winter survival, a role that showcased not only his expertise but also his dedication to service. Herb’s career in the Air Force spanned 26.5 years, a period during which he built a reputation for hard work, reliability, and an indomitable spirit.
In February of 1980, Herb made another life-changing decision: he moved to Vermilion and purchased a house. Just a few months later, in May of 1980, he applied for a position as a fertilizer technician with Webb’s Fertilizer, then owned and managed by George, Lawrence, and Scott Webb. Herb’s interview lasted just 10 minutes, but it was long enough for the Webbs to recognize his carpentry skills and the wealth of experience he brought with him. Herb walked out with the job, and as he fondly recalls, “I literally came out of the interview 10 minutes later with the job, mainly because they found out I could do carpentry. I’ve been working with Webb’s group of companies ever since.”
For over four decades, Herb has been a fixture at Webb’s, contributing his skills and expertise to the company and forming lasting bonds with colleagues. Although he officially stopped working full-time in May 2024, Herb continues to lend a hand whenever needed. With a chuckle, he shared, “I keep coming in to do work because I haven’t gotten a pink slip yet, and I will continue working until I can’t anymore.” Herb noted that staying involved with the work gives him a reason to get up in the morning, a sentiment that reflects his enduring commitment to staying active and engaged.
As family, friends, and community members gathered to celebrate Herb’s 90th birthday, the atmosphere was filled with admiration and affection for a man who has given so much to his country, his community, and the people around him. The event was a perfect reflection of Herb’s life—full of warmth, good company, and a sense of purpose.
Herb Jamieson’s life is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the importance of staying connected to one’s roots. As Vermilion continues to thrive, it is the presence of individuals like Herb that enriches the community and serves as an inspiration to all. Herb Jamieson was described by many in attendance as —a man who has lived 90 years with dignity, humour, and an unwavering spirit.
Hozzászólások