Doreen Zielke’s dedication to the Chemainus Festival of Murals Society is legendary.
The long-time treasurer of the society and husband Ray are moving to Calgary July 29. They haven’t even left town yet and they’re already being missed, with tributes pouring in.
“Best treasurer ever,” noted Peter Collum, another board member.
A gathering was held at the Mount Brenton Golf Club on Monday, July 12 to pay tribute to Zielke.
“Doreen kept the Festival of Murals financially strong during her time as treasurer which allowed us to grow the Chemainus mural program with numerous additions over the years,” noted president Tom Andrews. “Since 2010 we added murals 41-45 in the historical series, Emily Carr 3-5, and six in the community series, plus restoring the In Search of Snipes statue.
“Her focus on obtaining funding from BC Gaming, the Municipality and corporate donors was key to the success of the Festival of Murals. She also spearheaded the marketing and sales function which brought in additional revenue and promoted Chemainus as a must-see destination for visitors and tourists.”
Andrews indicated her time and dedication to the society is gratefully appreciated.
“We would not be where we are today without her support and we cannot thank her enough for all she did.”
“Doreen joined the board of directors as our treasurer in 2009, bringing a wealth of experience to the role, and she never looked back,” added Shannon Bellamy. “Over the years, Doreen has displayed the qualities that make her such an outstanding board member and treasurer. When she takes on a job, she gives her all.
“Doreen is an extremely hard worker and pays a great deal of attention to detail, which is a strong point for someone in her role. She has been very successful in acquiring funding, as well as assuming and developing other roles as the years went by to further the work of the society.”
Bellamy said she enjoyed working with Zielke the last 12 years and will miss her, as well as her wise counsel and willingness to help out whenever possible.
Marlie Kelsey recalled she first met Zielke while working at the Chemainus Visitor Centre.
“She has always impressed me with her support of the Festival of Murals and the community. She will be sorely missed for her contributions to the well-being of Chemainus and its history.”
Kelsey noted Zielke achieved her goal of getting Stefan back for the Snipes statue scene in Heritage Square and that’s something she should always remember with pride.
Related story: Stefan statue from In Search of Snipes back in place
“Other than Doreen is a shirttail cousin of mine, Doreen has done an excellent job for us at the Festival of Murals,” commented Cordell Ensign, another board member. “She has a sharp mind and always aware of what grants that Festival Of Murals qualifies for, including District of North Cowichan, etc. I think she will be very hard to replace and I will certainly miss her, too.”
The volunteer position has been advertised, but so far no replacement has been named, said Andrews.
