Neil Peart getting second honour at St Catharines’ Lakeside Park

It looks like Neil Peart, the late, great drummer for Canadian power trio, Rush, is getting another honour in St Catharines’ Lakeside Park.

Previously, the city renamed a structure within the park to Neil Peart Pavilion, “Lakeside Park” is, of course, one of Rush’s biggest hits and was inspired by the fact the drummer spent his early life in St Catharines.

While all three members of Rush are given songwriting credit for their tunes, it is widely-known Peart was the primary lyricist in the band.

Now the city is looking to add a work of art to commemorate him at the park, as well.

“We have seen an incredible outpouring of support since the (January 2020) 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.

To that end, the city’s Neil Peart Commemorative Task Force has launched a global fundraising campaign to fund the art.

“The launch of the online fundraising efforts provides an opportunity for Rush fans around the world to contribute to this important project,” said Sendzik.

“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.”

The task force chair, David DeRocco, said the commemorative work of art will contribute to the identity and character of the area and recognize the contributions of Peart to Canadian and world music, making it a beacon for Rush fans to visit for years to come.

For more information on the fundraising drive, see: www.EngageSTC.ca/Neil-Peart