Stu Clelland: A Life of Showing Up

by Jennifer Beard

Stewart Clelland has lived a full-circle kind of life—born and raised in Deloraine, gone for 40 years, and then right back home again in 2011. And ever since he returned, he’s been one of those people you see everywhere. If something is happening in town, chances are Stu is involved. He volunteers with the Men’s 2000 Club and has served as its President since 2013. He organizes cribbage at the Personal Care Home, sits on the Community Centre Board, leads the Tenants Association where he lives, and serves as President of the Congregate Meal program. And if that isn’t enough, he also works for the Legion as Deloraine’s bartender—at eighty years young. Stu doesn’t slow down. He just keeps showing up.

When you ask him why he volunteers, his answer is simple: he wants to stay active, help the community, and be around people. He likes being useful. He likes being part of things. And he likes knowing that what he’s doing makes someone else's life a little better. That’s what keeps him motivated—the belief in what he’s supporting. He’s proud to raise funds for organizations and causes that matter to the town, and he enjoys the feeling of contributing to something bigger than himself.

Volunteering has shaped how people see Stu, too. Over the years, folks have come to know him as friendly, reliable, and always willing to lend a hand. He laughs and says he’s “out there,” and it’s true—he’s one of those familiar faces that make a community feel like a community. Being part of Deloraine-Winchester means a lot to him. He describes it as peaceful and safe, with plenty of recreational opportunities, a strong sports culture, and a very good school. To him, it’s simply a great place for families and a good place to call home.

Some of Stu’s favourite moments as a volunteer come from two annual events: the Christmas meal for seniors and the Christmas breakfast for kids, organized through the Men’s and Ladies 2000 Clubs. He loves those days. He loves meeting and talking with the seniors, hearing their stories, and seeing their faces light up. And he loves the excitement of the kids at breakfast—the energy, the laughter, the joy. Those moments remind him exactly why he does what he does.

Stu believes volunteers are essential to the strength and future of the RM. Every town needs people who step up, and volunteers are what make a town strong. He says it plainly: “Come to Deloraine. It’s not a big place, but it’s a good town.” Volunteers help keep it that way.

If someone were considering volunteering or moving to the RM, Stu would tell them that volunteering is one of the best ways to meet new people and get involved. It opens doors to new experiences and opportunities, and it helps you feel connected to the place you live. He’s living proof of that.

Looking ahead, Stu’s goals are grounded in staying healthy—he’s had two open-heart surgeries—and continuing to volunteer as long as he can. Staying active keeps his mind clear, and being involved keeps him feeling like part of the community. He sees great opportunity for growth in Deloraine-Winchester, especially if the region continues to support strong schools, accessible health care, and the farming sector that plays such a vital role in the local economy.

Stu’s story is one of steady commitment, everyday generosity, and a genuine love for his hometown. He doesn’t volunteer for recognition. He volunteers because it feels right, because it keeps him connected, and because he believes in Deloraine. And the community is stronger because he’s in it.