Eugene Heit in his work station at Kindersley Plains Museum.
Joan Janzen
for The Clarion
It’s obvious that volunteer Eugene Heit takes much pride in the work he does and has done at the Kindersley Plains Museum for the past 16 years. Eugene volunteers 2,000 hours a year at the museum, the equivalent of full-time employment.
“I enjoy coming out here and giving back to the community. I’ve lived here since 1961, and my kids grew up here.” Eugene says, adding, “The work is endless to keep it (the museum) running.”
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The work may be endless, but so are all the tasks Eugene performs at the museum.
“I do all the buying for kitchen supplies, shop supplies and supplies for the main gallery.” With the help of other volunteers, Eugene restores everything from cabinets, tractors, furniture, does mechanical work, helps cater meals, and prepares the ground and provides water for a community garden on the premises.
“I did all the dirt work before all the buildings got moved in. That’s what I used to do for a living.” he explained. “Now we’re getting ready for the threshing demonstration for Goose Festival, as well as getting ten to twelve units ready for the parade.”
However, the museum isn’t the only place where Eugene has volunteered. He also helps out at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and in previous years volunteered with the Elks Club, helped put ice in the curling rink, umped at ball games, and helped out with the Scouts.
“People are wondering why I do this, but I had a pretty good life and I want to give back. And it’s good for my health.” he explained.
When I teased Eugene and asked, “So you don’t volunteer to get some time away from your wife?” with a twinkle in his eye and a smile, he replied, “Maybe for just a day or two.”
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