Fraser Valley, BC (Abbotsford)

Born in Dartmouth, NS, in August 1944, Gwen Settle has lived across Canada and settled in Abbotsford, BC, in 2000. A former Naval Operations WREN in the Royal Canadian Navy during the Cold War, Gwen’s career spans diverse roles in legal, administrative, and community service fields. She also ran a freelance legal secretarial business in Vancouver for over a decade.

Gwen is a dedicated community volunteer, serving as a Director and Treasurer for Matsqui Community Hall, Treasurer and Past President of Friends of the Abbotsford Libraries, and a Director of Agrifair. She is active with Abbotsford’s EESS, the Chamber of Commerce, and several other organizations. Gwen is also a registered speaker with The Memory Project, representing veterans’ stories nationwide, and received the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medallion in 2022 for her service.

Passionate about music, dancing, and family, Gwen cherishes time with her granddaughter and remains a committed advocate for her community. In 2025, she will Co-Lead the Fraser Valley Canadian Walk for Veterans.

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Doug Lumley began his service at the age of 17 when he joined the Royal Canadian Navy in 1967, serving for seven years. Following his release, he embarked on a 31-year career with BC Ferries, spending 27 of those years as a ship’s officer.

While working the northern run to Prince Rupert and Haida Gwaii, Doug became a Big Brother to a nine-year-old boy named Paul—a relationship that extended far beyond the official match and continues to this day. Paul has since grown into a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and successful business owner.

Doug’s experience with Big Brothers and Big Sisters led him to serve in multiple leadership roles within the organization, including president and past president. His dedication to community service continued through his involvement with the United Way of Victoria and various community initiatives.

Today, Doug is an active member of the Ladner Business Association, where he has helped organize numerous local events, including the popular annual Quilt Walk and Classic Car Show in Ladner and Tsawwassen.

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The grandson of RAF and RCAF veterans, Christian is a public safety professional and regional manager specializing in intelligence, investigation and enforcement operations. He is a recipient of the Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal and the CBSA President’s award for management excellence.

He has a passion for community contribution, serving as a member of the board of directors for the Canadian Peace Officer Memorial Association and One Veteran Society, and is a team leader for the annual Canadian Walk for Veterans. He has also served as a member of a mayoral task force, a mentor with Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver and ran as a candidate for city council.

In 2021 Christian founded Team Ten Eight, a website and podcast dedicated to sharing the stories of, and discussing the issues that impact, the people who keep us healthy, safe and secure, what he calls the ‘in service’ community.

Christian lives in Abbotsford, BC with his wife, Robyn.

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