Fundraising Campaign Launched for Neil Peart Memorial

Local task force seeking donations to erect public memorial in Lakeside Park to Rush drummer Neil Peart.

The St. Catharines' Neil Peart Commemorative Task Force has launched a campaign to create a public work of art paying tribute to Rock and Roll Hall of Fame drummer Neil Peart. 

The memorial will be placed at Lakeside Park, alongside the Neil Peart Pavilion. 

"We have seen an incredible outpouring of support since the passing of Neil Peart, including interest from across the globe inquiring as to how people could support the creation of a memorial," said Mayor Walter Sendzik. "The launch of the online fundraising efforts provides an opportunity for Rush fans around the world to contribute to this important project. The memorial will be an enduring tribute to an amazing musician, lyricist and author who called St. Catharines his hometown during his formative years - and a beacon for Rush fans to visit our community for years to come."

Since July 2020, the task force has been meeting to review options for the type and location of a memorial. 

The task force has also narrowed its choices down to seven artists, including the following:

• A Day On The Bridge Inc.
• IDS Integrative Design Strategies Inc.
• Morgan Sculpture Inc.
• R.J. Burnside & Associates Ltd.
• Ruth Abernethy
• Ted Fullerton
• The Planning Partnership

"We’re excited to reach another milestone, and finally provide supporters of this project a way to contribute to Neil’s memorial," said Neil Peart Commemorative Task Force Chair David DeRocco. "We know how important this project is to the international community of fans of both Neil and Rush, but it’s also going to be an important artistic showpiece for the local community who flock to Lakeside Park year-round."

Peart did much of his growing up in St. Catharines and wrote the Rush song "Lakeside Park" in tribute to the area. 

The drummer, who would have turned 69 on Saturday, died of brain cancer on January 7th, 2020. 

To make a donation, click here.