Cheers to 33 Years!
Founding Campus Campaign Co-Chair Orval Voakes Retires
When you meet Orval Voakes (pictured left), you know that you are in the presence of someone very special.
Orval, or OV as he is known by many, will retire from The University of Winnipeg this winter after 33 years as the Coordinator of Mail Services. Resilient and innovative, OV’s leadership has been essential in adapting to the ever-changing needs of an evolving campus and he continues to touch lives with his unconditional kindness and compassion.
While it is hard to imagine The University of Winnipeg without OV, it is not where his professional journey originally began.
A talented musician, OV joined the Canadian Armed Forces as an instrumentalist, playing the tuba in the Air Command Band and later becoming an accomplished conductor after studying at the Canadian Forces School of Music in Victoria. OV shared his gift of music for more than 30 years of dedicated service.
After his retirement from the Armed Forces, a new opportunity brought OV to The University of Winnipeg in January of 1983. At that time there was only one Faculty of Arts and Science and essentially one building, shared by a much smaller campus population. OV has witnessed the remarkable transformation of the University and more than three decades later, the wonderful people remain a constant and the highlight of his time here, becoming “like a second family to [him]”.
OV is the very embodiment of this spirit of community. He has a profound gift for connecting with others and his joyful and positive spirit is a light that shines all throughout the campus. Neil Besner has known OV well for nearly 30 years and speaks for many when he says, “I consider Orval one of my friends on campus. He’s a trustworthy, admirable guy. I am extremely fond of him.”
An interested listener and trusted confidant, OV has an awareness and understanding of campus life as experienced by students, staff, faculty, and visitors alike. He is a thoughtful and sensitive advocate, generously sharing his time and talents both on and off campus.
OV has been a lead volunteer for the University’s fundraising efforts, bringing tremendous commitment and enthuasiasm to his role as Founding Staff Co-Chair of UWinnipeg’s internal Campus Campaign. His voice is passionate and insightful, highlighting the importance of fostering the success and well-being of students through a supportive and inspiring educational experience.
Away from campus OV is an engaged member of Winnipeg’s vibrant musical community, singing with the Broadway-First Baptist Church Choir and conducting and playing in the handbell choir. He is active within the Church community, having volunteered as a Member and Chair of the Board of Deacons, Chair of Finance, and Treasurer of the Men’s Club.A Mason, OV is involved with the Order of the Eastern Star, Patricia Chapter, and recently served on the Board of Directors of the Chalet.
OV is also a dedicated family man. He and his beautiful wife Merl shared more than 56 wonderful years of marriage. A loving husband and proud father and grandfather to his son, daughter, grandson and granddaughter, OV cherishes his family and speaks fondly of them at every opportunity.
Thank you, Orval, for your many years of excellent service and friendship, and for reminding us that our greatest strength will always be in our connections with one other. We wish you a happy retirement!