Two local residents, Ralph Deigel and Abigail Tanner were recognized Monday as a part of YMCA Peace Week.

They received Peace Medals.

Deigel is a long-time local business owner, veteran, past Rotary president and more.

He’s known to many on Remembrance Day Services for playing the Last Post and says it’s important to remember on November 11th those that didn’t return from war.

“I can remember a lot of my buddies that didn’t make it home and when I think about them still the odd tear drops,” he says.

Deigel says he’s always wanted to do what he can for the community.

“Where else can you go in the world that’s any better than to live in North Bay. We’re the luckiest people in the world,” he adds.

Tanner is Honorary Chair of the local Learning Disabilities of Ontario chapter, a leader for self-advocacy and anti-bullying, organizer of donations of school supplies to Kenya and Costa Rica and more.

She has always wanted to be a leader and to help people.

“The reason why I do what I do is not for recognition but to make other people’s lives better. I still feel extremely happy to be receiving such an amazing award,” Tanner says.