November 17, 2025
Philanthropist Marshall Eliuk, fourth from right, presents a $3.1 million cheque to Will Petluck, chair of the Peace River and District Health Foundation on Nov. 7. Also in attendance, from left, are foundation members Rose Loos, Elaine Manzer, Carolyn Kolebaba, Dr. Laurene Willox, Kelly Whalen and Rhonda Frith. Supplied.
The Peace River Community Health Centre has been renamed the Marshall Eliuk Peace River Community Health Centre in recognition of his generous gift to the Peace River and District Health Foundation. Supplied.
Story by Diana Rinne
PEACE RIVER — They say if you drink the water of the Peace River, you will always return. For former resident and long-time businessman Marshall Eliuk, that saying proved true this November when he came home to make an extraordinary gift — one that will leave a lasting legacy on local healthcare for generations to come.
On Nov. 7, Eliuk was in Peace River for a special ceremony announcing the renaming of the Peace River Community Health Centre to the Marshall Eliuk Peace River Community Health Centre, in recognition of his more than $3-million donation to the Peace River and District Health Foundation.
“Healthcare is something that touches every life – as a patient, a family member, a neighbour,” says Eliuk. “I have been fortunate in my life, and the care I received in tougher times continues to inspire me. I see this gift as a way to help my community so patients can get excellent care close to home.
“I am deeply honoured to have the health centre and its atrium associated with my name, and I look forward to what this centre will mean for generations to come.”
Eliuk is a well-known Alberta entrepreneur, philanthropist and former long-time resident of the Peace River region. His commitment to healthcare causes runs deep. In 2018, he donated $3 million to support the hematology program at the University of Alberta Hospital, in gratitude for the care he received while fighting a rare blood disorder.
Over the years, his generosity has extended across Canada, including: $1.5 million to Canadian Blood Services’ cord blood and stem cell bank initiative, $1.5 million to bring a state-of-the-art systemic therapy suite to BC Cancer – Kelowna, $1 million to the Kelowna General Hospital cardiac unit, and $1 million to its stroke unit.
The newly renamed Marshall Eliuk Peace River Community Health Centre will continue to offer a full spectrum of services – from ambulatory and outpatient care to diagnostics, stroke care, primary care clinics, and community health programs – all under the stewardship of Alberta Health Services.
Eliuk’s donation will fund upgrades to patient spaces and equipment, helping to modernize and expand the facility’s capabilities.
“This transformative gift from Marshall is the single largest in our foundation’s history,” says foundation chair Will Petluk. “It will allow us to modernize and expand services, improve patient comfort, and attract top health professionals to serve our region. We are humbled by his generosity and commitment to the health and well-being of Peace River and the surrounding communities.”
“This gift means so much to our team and the patients we serve,” adds site manager Lynn Gaydosh. “Healthcare is constantly evolving, and this gift will help us adapt to future needs by investing in equipment and services that meet the needs of our community as it continues to grow.”
This historic gift marks a new chapter for the health centre — one rooted in gratitude, generosity, and a shared vision for better care in northern Alberta.
For more information or to donate to the Peace River and District Health Foundation email prdhf@outlook.com or call (780) 624-8829.
