Cor Van Raay bequests “transformative” sum for Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation

Posted on November 1, 2023 by Sunny South News

Southern Alberta Newspapers

Known for his deep roots in farming in the Picture Butte area, Cor Van Raay, who passed away in 2021 at 85 years old, bequeathed a portion of his estate to the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation (CRHF), according to a recent CRHF-issued press release on Oct. 19.

Van Raay, a renowned philanthropist, resided in and farmed in Picture Butte for over 50 years, and is known for his various successful agriculture ventures as well as leaving an indelible mark on the feedlot industry in Alberta.

The CRHF’s media release did not include any specific figures about the magnitude of the bequest made by Cor Van Raay’s estate.

In the years following his passing, Van Raay’s philanthropic legacy continues to have a profound impact across southern Alberta. Noted by Allan Bartolcic, Executive Director of the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation, in the recent media release, “receiving this monumental bequest from Mr. Cor Van Raay fills us with profound gratitude. His relentless support for local initiatives has been a source of inspiration. With his gift, our Foundation will further its mission of touching the lives of southern Albertans in profound ways.”

The CRHF expressed, “deep gratitude for this monumental bequest from Cor Van Raay,” noting Van Raay’s “significant contribution, stands as a symbol of Van Raay’s dedication to the enrichment and welfare of the southern Alberta community. His lasting impact will undoubtedly benefit countless individuals and families in the years ahead.”

As a highly respected figure in the local business community Van Raay was known as being an advocate for community projects. In October 2021, Van Raay was inducted into the Alberta Order of Excellence, the highest provincial honour.

The release highlighted Van Raay’s lifelong generosity in supporting the “enhancement of care for patients and staff at the Chinook Regional Hospital,” and verified the CRHF’s continued commitment to, “realizing Van Raay’s vision of a resilient, inclusive, and thriving community.”

The CRHF-issued release noted, “the impact of this bequest will reverberate throughout our community, positively influencing countless lives and propelling further progress in our programs, services, and facilities,” writing the Foundation is “better equipped to address the pressing needs of our community,” thanks to the bequest.