Del Hildebrand displays the clock he received in recognition of 50 years of service to Rotary.
The Fort Macleod Rotary Club was looking to fill a hole in its slowpitch lineup in 1975 when it approached Del Hildebrand to join.
“We needed a shortstop,” Rotarian Trevor Norlin said. “Somebody said, ‘Get Del. He’s a good shortstop’. And he was a good shortstop.”
Hildebrand also proved to be a good Rotarian over the ensuing five decades.
Past and present club members gathered at the REO Hall on Jan. 27 to celebrate Hildebrand’s 50th anniversary with the club.
Hildebrand was presented a certificate and a clock to mark the milestone anniversary.
“I’ve had a good 50 years,” Hildebrand said.
Fort Macleod Rotary Club president Jim Monteith said Hildebrand was an active club member.
“Del definitely was one who got involved,” Monteith said.
Monteith said Hildebrand was one of the Rotarians involved in the drive to raise money to build a new arena in the 1970s.
Hildebrand was heavily involved in Rotary’s annual golf tournament as well as the fund-raising auction.
Hildebrand curled in the Rotary district bonspiel, had perfect attendance at meetings, and received a Paul Harris Fellowship for untiring commitment to the ideals of Rotary.
“We’re very thankful, Del, for your dedication to Rotary over the years,” Monteith said.
Rotary district governor Christina Hassan wrote to congratulate Hildebrand on 50 years of dedicated service as a Rotary member.
“This achievement speaks volumes about your commitment, passion and the many lives you have touched,” Hassan wrote.
Hassan said Hildebrand’s enthusiasm for the Fort Macleod club’s annual golf tournament and auction brought joy to many.
The money raised at the golf tournament and auction has supported many Rotary initiatives in Fort Macleod.
“Your leadership, creativity and ability to foster camaraderie among club members have truly inspired us all,” Hassan wrote. “Each event reflects your hard work and dedication, creating lasting memories and supporting vital community projects.”
Hassan thanked Hildebrand for his friendship and the contributions he has made inside and outside of Rotary.
“Your commitment to service exemplifies the spirit of Rotary, making a meaningful difference in our community and beyond,” Hassan added.
Rotary assistant governor Rita Boltezar also sent her best wishes.
“I can only imagine all of your contributions to Rotary over this time,” Boltezar said of the 50-year milestone. “Your work in your community and doing good in the world exemplifies your commitment to the ideals of Rotary and service above self.”
Gunjan Lalaji, who came to Fort Macleod as a Rotary exchange student and who is now a Rotarian in Westborough, MA, sent his congratulations.
“Thank you for dedicating 50 years to Rotary,” Lalaji wrote. “Such an incredible milestone.”
David Hughes, a former Rotarian, made an electronic connection with Fabian Gloor, another exchange student from Switzerland.
“Thank you for your service to Rotary,” Gloor told Hildebrand, promising to visit on his trip to Canada next fall with his wife and two daughters.
