Walter Biberdorf, past president and long-time member of the Estevan and District German Freundschaft Society, was recently presented with the Saskatchewan German Council's special volunteer award, honouring his giving spirit, talents and readiness to help out whenever needed.
The special volunteer award is handed out each year to recipients who have been nominated by member groups. The award winners contribute through many volunteer hours and in various functions for the promotion of the German language, culture, customs and traditions. The winners all serve by personal example and are role models in the community. Their contributions help advance German-Canadian culture in Saskatchewan.
The award was presented during the special awards banquet during the annual Treffpunkt weekend in Lloydminster June 9.
Since it was not possible for Biberdorf, a resident of Frobisher, to travel across the province to accept the award in person, the Estevan club president Katharina Ulbrich accepted it on his behalf. Then when the Estevan German Club held their last meeting on June 21 before entering into a summer break, the gift basket was presented to Biberdorf by Ulbrich in front of the local membership.
Biberdorf has served the Estevan German Club for over 19 years, holding various executive positions including the presidency from 2008 to 2012. As current past president and choir conductor, he is still actively involved in the club's activities.
In making the presentation, it was noted that Biberdorf is a generous and warm-hearted person who continuously shares his gifts and talent with others. He dedicates time and knowledge to the German Club and is also actively involved at St. John's Lutheran Church in Frobisher. Their local minister, Rev. Schultz said, "Walter exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding and devoted volunteer who possesses personal integrity and respect for his peers."
Biberdorf and his family served for several years as missionary and humanitarian aid workers in Papua, New Guinea.
The special volunteer awards at the provincial level have been presented to outstanding nominees in the Saskatchewan German community since 2000.
Speaking on behalf of the local club, Ulbrich said the Estevan German Club proudly celebrates another member who is being recognized for his dedication and great volunteer work.
