Williment ready for next step in life after facing personal health issues

Williment also spoke about the mental health issues and depression he was dealing with associated with the January 2016 school shooting in La Loche. He said it had less to do with what happened in the community and more so with what was occurring behind the scenes. It led to sleep problems, poor eating habits, difficulties staying focused or motivated and constantly feeling overwhelmed.

Williment was ashamed of those issues and tried to hide them, but began opening up as he talked with people in the system and others with Northern Lights.

Cycling was therapeutic for Williment. He has raised thousands of dollars for SickKids Foundation through the Great Cycle Challenge. (Submitted photo/Mark Williment)

“I’m still very grateful for Northern Lights,” he said. “I’ve lost 60 pounds…I’m happy and well and better, just in time for me to start on my next phase of life.”

Williment, who is originally from Brandon, Man., was employed with NLSD since 1991. He started as a teacher in La Loche and took the role of superintendent based in La Ronge in 2005. The position involved supervising many schools with the exception of those on the west side of the division.

In 2013, a funding opportunity arose and the Northern Saskatchewan Football League was born. Williment was highly involved in it and did work to organize football camps for players, coaches and officials, organize the championship games, build partnerships with Football Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Roughriders, seek financial and material support and more.

For his efforts, he received the North Central District Service Award from the Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic association in 2020 and the Roughrider Recognition Award in 2019.

The Roughrider Recognition Award was given to Mark Williment for promoting and developing the support, as well as his time and effort in getting football to northern schools. (Submitted photo/Mark Williment)

“There were times when I was on the field, maybe at the last game of the season, kids would come up to me with tears rolling down their face telling me how much they were going to miss football,” Williment said. “I just think we were doing the right thing.”

For football to be such a success, Williment mentioned there were numerous coaches, officials and volunteers who deserve credit. In particular, he wanted to single out La Ronge Churchill Chargers coach Gabe Andrews for his leadership, expertise and hard work throughout the years.

Williment also wanted to thank fellow educators Greg Hatch and Ralph Pilz, who contributed to his development as a administrator through their leadership.

“Greg taught me to find the good in everyone. He was a leader who made you feel appreciated for your efforts and contributions,” he said. “The former director Ralph Pilz brought me to La Ronge as a superintendent and it was his example and decision making that focused on what was best for students. Even when there were difficult decisions, it all boiled down to what’s best for kids. He lived it.”

Williment currently has his La Ronge house listed for sale and is looking at moving to Saskatoon to be closer to his family. He said he enjoyed his time living in La Ronge and the sense of community he felt during his time here.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno

by Derek Cornet

Williment ready for next step in life after facing personal health issues

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