John Wickabrod is a 100-year-old veteran with a passion for potatoes, gardening and a love of animals. 

In honour of his service, NOTLer Leslie Moulson and her husband Bud presented a Quilt of Honour/Valour for him at the Legion last Tuesday.

Wickabrod’s wife Yvonne Bruce and daughter Samantha Bruce accepted the quilt on his behalf as he was in the hospital, where the new quilt will be put to good use. 

“I hope he likes it,” smiled quilter Moulson while handing the beautifully folded quilt over to Yvonne. 

Moulson explained that making this quilt was near and dear to her heart. Her beloved great-grandfather and father, along with Bud’s father were all veterans who volunteered their service.

“We are proud of the men in our family who served and make this donation to honour them,” Moulson said in presenting the quilt.

“To John Wickabrod, our veterans, our active duty men and women, we say thank you for your service and sacrifices so that we can live in a free country.”

Wickabrod sacrificed a lot with his service, Yvonne said, recalling that he returned home from France after being injured by a bomb explosion.

About eight years ago he received the Legion of Honour medal from France, an award his wife said he was thrilled about. 

Wickabrod has five daughters, including his second-youngest Samantha. Nowadays he is known for his passion for gardening and animals.

“We always had a family pet growing up,” she said. 

“He grows the best potatoes in town,” added longtime Legion member Stan Harrington. 

Veterans service officer Jackie Dickieson reiterated how special the quilt donation was, noting it’s important to “maintain connection (to veterans) and educate younger generations.”