By: Graham Barton

It is with sadness we mourn the loss of two individuals who recently had a tremendous impact on my life, both professionally and personally.

Frank Garner was a mentor in my first CCA (CKC) role. As Head Coach of the National Team, I was fortunate to work with him as a National Development Coach just prior to the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984. When I returned to CKC in 1999 he was the first to take me under his wing. In his role with the High Performance Committee and as an International Official, he was always there to help me and the National Team.  He will leave a legacy to the Cheema Aquatic Club, Atlantic Canada, CKC, and the International Canoe Federation.  He was a leader, a coach, a mentor and a friend.

Art Quartermain also helped influence my career, both as a coach and as a person. I worked part-time with Ontario in the early 80’s and then when I was a National Coach in 1989. Art offered me a full-time Provincial Coach position, which at the time little did I know would provide a career not only for my wife but also allow me to spend more time with our young children.  I stayed with Ontario for 10 years before returning to CKC and enjoyed thoroughly the opportunity to work with Art. Over time we developed a friendship that I cherish. The knowledge he shared and the kindness he showed me and my family will never be forgotten.

Both these men are a piece of me.  As people shape our lives, we reflect on the impact they have had on us.

Art and Frank – thank you. “Per Aqua ad Fraternitatem”.