From the Office of the Mayor – In Memory of Noreen Young

April 22, 2025 

It is with sincere sadness that I learned of the passing of Noreen Young late last week. Noreen was a national gem but nowhere was she more beloved than here, in Mississippi Mills.  

A masterful puppet builder and renowned puppeteer for over 50 years, she became nationally known for the CBC children’s show, Under the Umbrella Tree. In 1995, Noreen was invested as a Member of the Order of Canada, an honour which recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. 

Noreen was a local ambassador of arts and culture in our community and spearheaded the Puppets Up! International Puppet Festival. Many of the murals that dot Almonte’s downtown core were designed and painted by Noreen, who was instrumental in realizing the public art project. In addition to her contributions to the arts and culture scene in our community, Noreen was keen to share her knowledge and talents serving on the municipal arts and culture advisory committee and the community and economic development committee.  

Noreen’s legacy will live on through the Puppets Up! Festival, and we will remember her  with a smile every time a puppet makes an appearance at a local event or when walking by the bronze monument of Gloria Gopher, who she portrayed on Under the Umbrella Tree, that resides along the Alameda.  

In accordance with the Mississippi Mills Flag Policy, I have requested that staff lower the municipal flag in front of the municipal offices. This is a gesture of respect for Noreen, who has contributed in many ways to our municipality, our community and the country of Canada. 

Please keep Noreen’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.   

Sincerely,

Mayor Christa Lowry
Municipality of Mississippi Mills