By Michael Bennett
Local Journalism Initiative
The Ridgetown Independent News
The Blenheim Shriners Club followed through on an initiative by a longtime member, who unfortunately passed away before he could see his vision come to fruition.
Ray Fenton, who worked most of his life at the family farm near Highgate, had the idea to donate toys that children could enjoy while they were seeking medical treatment at the new Blenheim Health Hub.
Fenton, however, died in April 2025 at the age of 81 before he could see his plan through to fruition.
The Shriners from the Blenheim Masonic Lodge ensured Fenton’s wishes were met by donating a toy chest to the Health Hub.
Members of the Fenton family – Ray’s wife Bonnie, their grandchildren Lydia Konecny (with son Cliff) and Anderson Evans (with wife Brianne) – joined several Blenheim Shriners at the recent ceremony at the Health Hub.
“He wanted to do some kind of a donation for kids here to help them, and unfortunately he passed before we really got anything in place,” said Jeff Stokes, president of the Blenheim Shriners. “So we talked to Tyler (Mercer) back and forth, and came up with this toy box.
“The Blenheim Shrine Club is going to keep freshening the supplies of toys in there for kids as they come in and get their shots or whatever,” said Stokes. “They can get to pick something out of the box as they head home or use them and put them back.”
Mercer, Hub executive director, said the medical facility is grateful to Fenton and the Shriners for their gift to the children.
“This initiative is a wonderful example of the impact that community collaboration can have,” Mercer said.
He added the Hub values partnerships that support the well-being of the centre and the community.
“The toy chest also reflects our vision of creating a warm, welcoming and compassionate environment for everyone accessing health-care services,” said Mercer. “Small acts of kindness can make a lasting difference, and we’re proud to work alongside the Blenheim Shriners to make every visit a little brighter for our youngest patients.”
Fenton lived and worked on the Fenton Farm for most of his life and was proud to see the egg and cash-crop operation continue for future generations of his family.
Along with his volunteering with the Shrines, Fenton was also active in the community through the Highgate United Church, Erie Street United Church, Howard Mutual Insurance Board and Gosnell Cemetery Board.
A plaque commemorating Fenton’s donation to the Health Hub will be displayed near the toy chest.
“Because it was his idea, we thought we would dedicate that with this little plaque that will be over top of the toy box to tell folks the origin of it,” Stokes said.
