Gatineau names two public spaces to commemorate two local women who made an impact

Sophie Demers

The Saint-Gérard community centre in Rivière-Blanche has been renamed the Lucille-Philion community centre, commemorating a local woman who left her mark on the city. The park where the community centre is located will keep the name Saint-Gérard Park. The community centre is still under reconstruction following a 2021 fire.

Lucille Philion (1921-2011) was the director of three local schools, Saint-Gérard, Saint-Jude, and Sainte-Maria-Goretti. She is remembered as someone dedicated to education and student success. Even after retirement, she continued helping students through home classes. Philion was very involved in the parish of Sainte-Rose-de-Lima’s various community projects and the church renovations. She also collaborated with Famille Secours, the Guignolée and the Fabrique committee.

A new park in development at the corner of Saint-Louis and René streets in Point-Gatineau will be named Hélène-Wallingford-Panalaks Park to honour Panalaks’ impact on her community. The park is still under construction, but once complete will include a pergola, pedestrian paths, a rain garden, and outdoor furniture. Gatineau states that the work should be completed in the coming months.

Hélène Wallingford Panalaks (1920-2016) was a nurse from Pointe-Gatineau. She graduated from the University of Ottawa School of Nursing in 1942 and later, in 1955, completed a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In 1971, the dedicated health professional got her certification in alcoholism and other addictions from the University of Sherbrooke. Through her volunteering and commitment to healthcare, she made a lasting impact on the Outaouais.

“With these designations, the City of Gatineau is paying tribute to two women who have had an exceptional journey. Their commitment and generosity have left a mark on the Gatineau community, and their legacy will continue to inspire current and future generations," said Julie Bélisle, Chair of the Comité de toponymie and Councillor for Limbour.