Grand River Women’s Probus Club celebrates 25 years of friendship and community

Pictured are Martin Buscher (left) and Pam Bamsey (right) cutting the cake at the Grand River Women’s Probus Club 25th anniversary ceremony on August 25, 2025.

Paris Independent Staff

Staff Contribution

Laughter, memories and the sound of bagpipes filled the Best Western Brantford last week as the Grand River Women’s Probus Club celebrated its 25th anniversary. More than 110 members attended the milestone gathering.

The club, founded in 1999 with the support of the Brantford Rotary Sunrise Club, has provided fellowship, friendship and fun for retired and semi-retired women in Brantford and Brant County. Today, it is part of a national network of 250 clubs, and more than 4,000 worldwide.

During the anniversary celebration, President Pam Bamsey welcomed members and guests, including District Director Donna Potoczek, Probus Canada President Martin Buscher and Bernie Neziol of the Brantford Rotary Sunrise Club. Buscher presented an official 25th anniversary certificate to Bamsey, while Neziol reflected on his club’s role in sponsoring the Grand River chapter a quarter-century ago.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of a Lifetime Membership Certificate to Linn Cumin, who has contributed in many leadership roles over the years.

Founding members were recognized with a ceremonial bagpipe procession. Those in attendance included Donna Case, MaryAnn Clawsie, Ursula Collins, Yvonne Chenowith, Mary De St. Croix, Eleanor Gloster, Helen James, Gen Lindsay, Marion McClure, Fran DeRosse, Louise McGraw, Gloria Perkins, Ruth Pickard, Sheila Ray, Ruth Smith, Cheryl Turnbull and Jan Welsh.

Past presidents were also honoured, including Marion McClub, Pat VanSickle, Cumin, Pat Ballantyne and Potoczek. The club took a moment to remember past leaders who have died, including Lyn Oswald, Kathy White, June Szeman and Shirley Green.

The Grand River Women’s Probus Club continues to meet on the fourth Monday of each month at the Best Western Brantford, where members enjoy guest speakers, fellowship and social activities.

For membership information, visit grandriver.probuscanada.ca or email membership.btfd@gmail.com