VIDEO: Ingram Accepts Ganley Award

Editor's note: This is a monthly feature highlighting the Salem Patch Greatest Person, chosen because of their commitment to improving Salem and making a difference.

Hundreds gathered at the Boys & Girls Club Friday for the 23rd Annual John P. Ganley St. Patrick's Day Memorial Luncheon, where community leader and former state Rep. Russell F. Ingram received the Chief John P. Ganley Community Service Award.

Ingram was quick in his acceptance speech to thank his late wife Roberta, who passed away two years ago. Their names are emblazoned on the Ingram Senior Center, the community building they helped fund.

"I wish she could be here today," Ingram said. "Bobbi and I are natives of Salem and we feel it has been a privilege to give back to our home town to make Salem a better place to live."

In introducing Ingram, William J. Ganley III said Ingram is "not only an inspiration to others through his years of service in Salem, but has been a pillar of the community wherever he has established roots throughout his life."

Ganley said Ingram moved to Salem in 1928 at the age of 3 and graduated from Salem schools in 1942 before becoming a pilot in World War II. He went to UNH and later banking school at Rutgers University and married Bobbi in 1950. He worked in Colebrook at Farmers and Traders National Bank, eventually becoming president.

The Ingrams moved back to Salem in 1992. Ganley said they found a need for a new senior center in town and challenged the town to match their gift of $500,000.

"It was a success and the Ingram Senior Center dream was realized," Ganley said.

Ingram spent eight years as a state representative, serving on Ways and Means and the Public Works Committee. Ingram is currently on the board of directors of the Salem Boys & Girls Club and is the chair of the town's Council on Aging.

"Some people choose to give their time to charitable organizations, some give their financial support," Ganley said. "Then there are people like Russ Ingram who chose to do both."

"While (this honor) is overwhelming, I'll hold it in my heart as a distinction I'll cherish forever," Ingram said in accepting the award.

Gov. John Lynch, U.S. Sen. Kelly Ayotte and U.S. Rep Charles Bass were also in attendance at the luncheon. Lynch noted worked with Ingram while he was a state representative.

"Russ always was a gentleman and was always a model of civility," Lynch said. "We could disagree and still respect and trust each other."

"Russ, there's nothing left in Salem to award you," Bass joked. "But it's well-deserved."

The N.H. Police Association Pipes & Drums Band as well as the Andy Healy Band provided music during the event. A traditional Irish corned beef and cabbage lunch was served to those in attendance.

Local businessman Michael Collins was also honored with an appointment from the Salem Boys & Girls Club Board of Governors.