Skate Canada Newfoundland and Labrador Hall of Famer Agnes Thistle of St. John’s passed away Tuesday. She was 86.
Thistle was tireless volunteer for figure skating within the province for over half a decade, receiving her 50-year volunteer pin and named a Skate Canada honourary official in 2016.
In 2005, she was the Skate Canada volunteer of excellence award winner for her work in the province, and in 1996 was the winner of the Skate Canada judge/evaluator of the year national award.
A lifelong member of the Prince of Wales Skating Club, Thistle served in many capacities over the years. In 2003, the club honoured Thistle by donating to the provincial association the Thistle Shield to be presented at the Star Challenge (formerly junior provincials) to the club garnering the most points.
As a long-time member of the Skate Canada Newfoundland and Labrador board of directors, Thistle held various board positions including vice-chair (technical) and Skater Development chair. She was team leader for a generation of skaters competing at the divisional, challenge and national levels, and served as Canada Winter Games team manager for the 1991 and 1995 Games.
In recognition of her lengthy volunteer service, and in her 50th season as a Skate Canada Newfoundland and Labrador member, the Agnes Thistle Invitational was added to the provincial competition calendar and includes awarding The Shining Star award, donated by the Thistle family.
Resting at Barrett’s Funeral Home, a funeral service will take place 11 a.m. Saturday from Barrett’s Memorial Chapel.