Edmonton toy run dedications

Very seldom, but from time to time we dedicate our Toy Run to someone very special who has contributed greatly to our success.

This year's Toy Run is dedicated to the memory of Dale Gillis.

Some may recognize Dale from his seat at the donation table the past few years.

But from 2008 to 2018, Dale donned the "red suit" and arrived as Santa. 

When not playing Santa, Dale was always working behind the scenes doing whatever needed to be done.

Dale touched the lives of many and his welcoming smile will be missed.

This year's Toy Run is dedicated to the memory of Mike Hendriks.

Many people knew Mike as "Fat Franks". Mike became a vendor with the Edmonton Toy Run in 2007. Each year he showed up with five carts for our event. 

Mike was always looking for ways to help the Toy Run. When we didn't have a coffee vendor Mike would make sure one of his carts served coffee.  Many people didn't know it, but in addition to purchasing a hoodie for every staff member who worked the Toy Run he always donated a generous portion of his sales for the event. 

Mike was a great friend who will be truly missed. 

 The 2015 Toy Run was dedicated to the memory of Laurie Billings.
Due to poor health Laurie missed the 2014 toy run, and passed away shortly thereafter. Laurie was an avid supporter of the Edmonton Toy Run, who worked relentlessly behind the scenes to make the toy run a success. Many will remember the year that Laurie won the 50/50 draw and donated the money back to Santas Anonymous. She loved Christmas and wanted every child to experience the joy of opening a gift on Christmas morning.
Laurie touched the lives of many; we will miss her laugh, friendship and her passion for life. She truly made a difference in the lives of others. 

 The 2005 Toy Run was dedicated to the memory of Gary Draeger of 630 CHED, who coordinated the Santas Anonymous program for many years. Gary was the “Head Elf” on the campaign and his true spirit and dedication to the program inspired many thousands of thankful families over the years. Sadly Gary Dreaeger passed away in May of 2005 after an illness. 

 The 2001 Toy Run was dedicated to the memory of Pete Steenson. One of the Toy Run ``originals``. Pete's contributions to the event were immeasurable. Anybody who knew Pete is well aware of the amount of time, effort, and ``grunt work``, he put in. Did you know he was also the chief sounding board, shoulder, and devil's advocate?

Pete's death in April 2001 was a huge blow on so many levels. He was absolutely the wind beneath our wings.