Submitted by: Roy Ooms

The SVRSS Class of 1976 just hosted the 50th anniversary of their graduation at the Swan Valley Museum on July 21 – 24, 2026. Approximately 60 grads attended the event, along with about 8 teachers. In total 113 people were present. People came from as far west as Vancouver Island, and as far east as Toronto. One grad made the trek from Minnesota, and going north, a couple made the journey from Flin Flon and Thomson.

The event was kicked off with a Meet & Greet on Tuesday evening, July 21st; followed by a tour of the newly renovated high school on Wednesday morning and a banquet at the Museum later that day catered by Jamie Wasylciw.

Guest speakers were: Leonard Harapiak (former principal), Henry Barkowski (former teacher and principal), Rick Wowchuk (MLA for Swan River), Kim (Sadler) Davis (1976 Valedictorian) , and Ron Watts (1976 Student Council President).

The event was emcee’d by Roy Ooms. A well deserved shout out goes to the organizing committee of approximately a dozen volunteers from the Valley who invested countless hours preparing for the event and decorating the hall.


Apparently, although we could stand to be corrected, but we think The Class of 1976 is the only one to have celebrated a reunion every ten years! Will there be a 60th? Time will tell…

Thursday morning started off with a pancake breakfast at the Museum hosted by the Bowsman Curling Club.

Later that day David and Michelle Minish hosted a fabulous bbq on their acreage west of town. A great evening to cap off a wonderful milestone celebration!

All in all, a great time of reminiscing, telling tall tales and reconnecting with classmates of old. Kudos to the spouses and partners who accompanied the grads, offering their patient, good hearted support for a wonderful event enjoyed by everyone!

Wishing the residents of Swan Valley all the very best going forward in remediation and recovery from the devastating flood that impacted so many. Our decision to proceed with the reunion was not taken lightly; giving careful, sensitive consideration to the impact our event might pose. Your support was greatly appreciated. We hoped this event might provide a ray of sunshine for those in our midst who were suffering the effects of the flood. Our hearts are with you!