RCMP S/SGT. Garth Hampson (Ret)
For over 38 years, Ret. S/Sgt.Garth Hampson has led the anthems at the OWCC meetings with his magnificent baritone voice….now he’s retiring.
Born in the prairies, always engaged in his community and trained in voice music, he was enticed by a genuine call of the NORTH to join the RCMP. With an exemplary career in the North, he was posted to Ottawa in 1964 as principal vocalist for the acclaimed RCMP Band, a role that took him across Canada and around the world. In their scarlet tunics, the musicians were recognized and welcomed everywhere.
In his distinguished career as an RCMP officer and as a musician, he has sung in various musical styles in lead roles in the Savoy Society’s Gilbert and Sullivan Production, in Orpheus Society operatic and in Studio Opera Guilds. He is well schooled in exquisite liturgical music of the Anglican Church which he has sung in Ottawa’s Christ Church Cathedral since the 60’s and on tour at Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Canterbury Cathedral, Chartres, Vimy Ridge…
He has sung the Canadian national anthem at the Grey Cup, major league baseball games and NHL hockey games. He has rubbed elbows with the rich and famous as well as kings and queens. This humble charismatic man was the creator and strong supporter of programs by the RCMP in seniors’ residences and hospitals across the country. He has used his talents both as a singer and an impresario to raise funds for multiple worthy causes over the years. In 2010, he was awarded the Vice Regal Commendation medal by then Governor General Michaelle Jean for his multiple volunteer efforts in his community…the quiet unassuming Garth.
Garth met his wife, Eleanor when they were both singing Messiah. They were married in 1961 and have two children, Brad and Diana, both in police careers like their Dad.
Garth has given so much of his time and talent to the OWCC over the years. There are not enough words to say Thank you! Merci! Qujanaq! His kindness, enthusiasm, generosity, and love of life cannot be matched. It is an honour and a privilege for the OWCC to present him with this plaque as an Honourary member.