BEHIND THE SCENES: Boon gives back entire life to country, community, and family

Rick Boon, a retired teacher, recalls how his father, Art Boon, a tank gunner and veteran of World War II, would light up classrooms with stories about the military, war, and Canadian veterans.

 

Art Boon could connect tragic events with the importance of lives lost and the freedom that resulted. He made a lasting impression on students, and even after retiring, Rick continued to receive calls and well-wishes about the impact Art had on his students.

 

Art passed away at the age of 98 after a short illness. He was heavily involved with the Royal Canadian Legion and was a tenacious advocate for local veterans, helping them get whatever they needed. Despite being a skilled hockey player, Art prioritized his family over pursuing a career in the sport. Rick plans to create an audio book of his conversations with his father for future generations. Art Boon will be remembered for his storytelling, advocacy for veterans, and dedication to his family.

 

The Stratford community mourns the passing of Art Boone, a Second World War veteran who passed away at the age of 98. Boone's experiences during the war as a tank gunner shaped his life's mission to teach people about World War II and to keep the memory of the sacrifices made by the armed forces alive. He was actively involved with the Royal Canadian Legion in Stratford, helping to organize Remembrance Day activities and ceremonies every year until his passing. Boone's involvement with the Legion was a crucial part of his efforts to keep the memories of our soldiers alive and to make sure that their sacrifices are not forgotten.

Boone's message about the importance of remembering our veterans resonated with his audience, particularly students. He frequently visited schools and other institutions to teach students about the sacrifices made by the armed forces and to keep the memory of those sacrifices alive. His son, Rick, who is a retired teacher, often brought his dad to class to speak to his students. Boone did not come to lecture, but to engage and connect with his audience. His efforts to keep the memory of our soldiers alive will continue to inspire and educate future generations.

Boone's passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through his efforts to teach people about World War II and to keep the memory of our soldiers alive. He will be remembered as a warm person who was always interested in people's lives and as a dedicated teacher who was passionate about ensuring that future generations understand the sacrifices made by our armed forces. The Stratford community will miss him dearly, but his contributions to the community and to the country will never be forgotten.