Nicole Gruslin

Michèle Bazin

Michèle Bazin Awarded Charles III Coronation Medal

Michèle Bazin was recently awarded the Charles III Coronation Medal, a commemorative honour created in 2023. The medal recognizes citizens whose life work represents an outstanding contribution to public life.

Michèle passed away on February 27 at the Brome-Missisquoi Perkins Hospital after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

A Life of Dedication and Influence

A prominent public relations expert, event organizer, TV screenwriter, women’s rights advocate, and board director at both the national and provincial levels, Michèle also worked closely with provincial and federal party leaders throughout her career.

She spoke with Tempo just weeks before her passing about her remarkable life and her deep love for the Brome Lake region.

A Cultural Visionary in Knowlton

Michèle and her husband Raymond Savoie chose to settle in Knowlton drawn by its cultural attractions, the beauty of the lake, and the region’s natural surroundings. Once settled, she became an energetic supporter of the local cultural scene.

Her most ambitious project may have been the Knowlton International Film Festival — a bold idea that turned into one of the region’s most respected cultural events. The first edition launched in 2018, opening with Indian Horse, a powerful film about Catholic residential schools. The festival was co-founded with John Griffin, a Gazette writer, Tempo colleague, and former TIFF film vetter.

A Passion for Storytelling

Beyond her work in events and media, writing was Michèle’s lifelong passion. She published:

  • Four novels
  • Poetry
  • More than 150 television drama scripts

She also played an important role in writing grant submissions and was closely involved in CIDI 99.1 FM, the local radio station whose programming she deeply cherished.

Remembered With Love

Michèle Bazin is survived by:

  • Her husband Raymond Savoie
  • Their two daughters, Virginie and Frédérique
  • And four grandchildren

Her voice, vision, and relentless creative spirit leave a lasting legacy — in Knowlton and far beyond.