A low-key John McGivney was the centre of attention Wednesday when 500 friends and fans helped him celebrate his 90th birthday.
The lawyer who never stopped giving personal time to worthy causes was honoured at a festive dinner at the Ciociaro Club.
“He’s a quiet superhero,” said Arla Peters, who sits on the board of the John McGivney Centre, named after McGivney because of the tireless work he put into getting the children’s rehabilitation facility started in 1978. “He isn’t there for the glory. The only reason he allowed us (this party) is because it will benefit the centre.”
John McGivney celebrates his 90th birthday and was greeted by hundreds including Maryann Rennie, right, at the Ciociaro Club November 28, 2012.
Each attendee paid $90 for the party and dinner. His children, three daughters and a son, are his biggest cheerleaders.
“He has taught us so much,” said Pat McGivney. “He’s a role model. He’s a wonderful father and we’ve had a wonderful life with him.”
Elaine Whitman said the large attendance at the party showed how ne has touched many people.
McGivney said he felt compelled to help children because an opportunity presented itself.
“You want to do something on behalf (of children) or you want to ignore it,” he said. “I could not ignore it.”
In addition to being a member of the Rotary Club of Windsor since moving to the city in 1955, McGivney was a pilot during the Second World War. He was also a leader on the University of Windsor board of governors, the local chamber of commerce and at St. Mark’s by–the-Lake Anglican Church.
