When I think of what makes Lloydminster special, it’s not the industries or the money to be made. It’s the caring, community-driven people this city manages to attract.
You could write dozens of books about all the passionate individuals that once called Lloydminster home.
For Glenn Weir, his passion for his community and loving approach was something that set him apart.
Born in 1926 in Aberdeen, Sask, Weir found a passion for animals in 1937 when he found himself responsible for vaccinating horses. He went to the veterinary college in Guelph Ont., where he met his wife, Kathleen Weir, who went by Kelly, in college.
Eventually, he moved out to Lloydminster 1952 to assist his brother-in-law, Frank Creech, with his private practice. Weir would often visit with people after his work tending to their animals was done.
Creech had a practice where he would keep a nail in his pocket to not inform a cow owner, he had killed his own cow while attempting to deliver the animal, which resulted in a ruptured uterus.
“How do I tell a very good person who loves his animals that he killed his cow,” recalled Weir of the event.
Weir opened his own practice in 1961 and often credited the success of his clinic to his wife, who kept everything running. His love for Kelly was apparent, as he often described her as the girl of his dreams. In 1986, Doug Weir took over from his dad.
Weir semi-retired in 1997, stepping away from the clinic, leaving it in his son’s trusted hands. He still took care of animals, often travelling outside the city to do so.
He kept himself busy and was involved in Meals on Wheels, Habitat for Humanity, Lloydminster and Area Brain Injury Society and the Rotary Club.
Weir’s beloved wife passed away in 2005. It was difficult for him, but through his community involvement and time spent with people close to him, it was something he managed to bear.
Weir passed away in 2012 and was remembered for his community involvement and the work he did with animals. He was a devoted family man who loved his children and grandchildren. He also cared deeply about his friends and others.
In 2001, he won the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award for his extensive work in the community.
He was always giving back to the community, including handing out candy, which is how he became known as the candyman. I’ve even heard he could make a rabbit out of a handkerchief.
I wasn’t sure where I’d want to include this, but he was often referred to as an eternal optimist. Not only that, he was a very compassionate individual.
Seeing Weir’s story, I’m inspired by his resolve to always work hard and give back. Today, the name lives on in the veterinary clinic, which still operated by his family.
I think I’ll have a piece of candy, too. I’m a Double Bubble gum fan.
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