Vegreville News Advertiser - April 14, 2021

Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Vegreville Fondly Remembered

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Michelle Pinon News Advertiser

Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, passed away on Friday, April 9 at the age of 99 years.

He, along with her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, reportedly made 20 visits to Canada during their many years together.

One of those visits came on Wednesday, August 2, 1978. The Royal Couple were on-route to Edmonton where her Majesty would officially open the Commonwealth Games. Vegreville was one of several stop-overs they made that day.

The August 10, 1978 edition of the Vegreville Observer which showcased the Royal Couple’s visit.

(Vegreville Observer/Archives)

Larry Ruptash, who was the Mayor of Vegreville at the time, along with his wife, and MP’s, MLA’s, town councillors, and executive members of the Chamber of Commerce greeted the Royals in Pysanka Park. “There were thousands of people,” recalled Ruptash. “What a thing to have the Queen and Prince visit Vegreville. That was a great thing for the community.”

In his speech, Ruptash said it was a great honour and privilege on behalf of the council and the citizens of the Town of Vegreville and District to extend a warm welcome to them.

He stated, “Our community is strong, healthy, and prosperous because of the diversity of its population. We are enriched with people of different cultures and traditions living and working together in a spirit of harmony and cooperation. We are proud

Read the full story in the April 14, 2021 edition of the News Advertiser - now online!