Member of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: April 17, 2025
• Invested on: September 18, 2025

Gilbert Donald Walsh, C.M.
Peterborough, Ontario

Donnie Walsh is recognized as the father of Canadian blues music. This co-founder and leader of The Legendary Downchild Blues Band has been an instrumental figure on the national blues scene for over half a century. His music has inspired generations of acts, including international pop culture icons the Blues Brothers.