Golden Voices of our Seba Seniors – Stories from our members
Gene McMullen: A Lifetime of Community, Commitment, and Good Humour
When you ask Gene McMullen what comes to mind when he hears the words “Seba Seniors,” he doesn’t hesitate. To him, Seba Seniors is the heart of the community — a place where people can give back, feel good about what they’re doing, and find purpose. “Seba Beach doesn’t really have anything else like this,” he says. “It has become the heart of the community.”
That sense of purpose is something Gene has carried with him for decades. He’s been involved with Seba Seniors since 2004, joined the board around 2010, and has now served for eight years. Before retiring, Gene worked in Safety Management at Imperial, a role that suited his natural tendency to challenge himself and stay involved. When he stepped into Seba Seniors leadership, it felt like a natural extension of who he already was.
“I enjoy the challenge,” he says with a grin. “I’m a stubborn SOB.”
A Lifelong Connection to Seba Beach
Gene’s story with Seba Beach goes back much further than his time with Seba Seniors. He’s been coming here since 1949. His parents, Archie and Ressa McMullen, were part of the early fabric of the community. Back then, Seba Beach was full of bush pilots — people who were doing well enough to afford a recreation property and wanted a place to gather, relax, and build memories.
One of Gene’s favourite memories is his wedding in 1987, held at the May Hall. It was one of the biggest parties the community had ever seen, with 120 people celebrating well past 1 a.m. Gene wore blue jeans, cowboy boots, and a western sports jacket. Sharon had her close friend by her side, and Gene’s son stood as his best man. Dot and Bob kept an eye on things from the Melmoth Lounge. It was casual, joyful, and very Seba Beach.
Rolling Up His Sleeves
If there’s one thing Gene loves, it’s pitching in. One event that stands out for him is the 2018 building renovation. He worked closely with Dennis, the contractor, and remembers the experience fondly. “You couldn’t frustrate him,” Gene says. “He was so patient.” Volunteers came together to remove paneling, close off the kitchen, and refresh the space. It was hard work, but it was fun — the kind of project that brings people together.
Renovations have been a steady part of Seba Seniors’ growth. In the early 2000s, the south side of the Melmoth Lounge was a dumping ground. By 2012, things started to change. The firehall was cleaned out, landscaping was redone, and a bench was added for the 40th anniversary. In 2018, the lounge got new windows. In 2021, the thrift shop was refreshed with new carpets and curtains. In 2022, the old two‑car garage was transformed into the sorting room we use today. Dennis, of course, was part of every step.
Building Relationships That Matter
One of Gene’s proudest accomplishments is helping establish a relationship with the Paul Band. Alongside Cathie and others, he worked to build trust and connection, starting with Carolyne Wagner’s early efforts. “It’s important to maintain this relationship,” Gene says. He believes strongly in offering educational opportunities because Indigenous people are often misunderstood. A round dance now closes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation event at Seba Seniors — a meaningful tradition that reflects the community’s commitment to learning and respect.
Supporting the Community Through the Thrift Shop
Gene is also proud of the Thrift Shop and the role it plays in helping the community. In the early days, Dot’s black purse — affectionately called “Grandma’s Purse” — served as the cash register. Over time, the Thrift Shop grew into a reliable source of support. It donates to school lunch programs, and on certain days, students from the Paul Band school come to pick out items they need. It’s a simple idea that makes a real difference.
Keeping People Connected
Communication has changed a lot over the years. Before 2022, most information spread through word of mouth, Facebook, and a newsletter created by Diane Coulhard. When Seba Seniors partnered with the Westend Seniors Activity Centre (WE Seniors.ca) , it opened the door to more programs that help seniors age in place. Around the same time, the organization moved to Google Drive, making it easier to stay organized and connected.
Still Going Strong
Gene and Sharon try to attend every event. Gene even has his ProServe so he can volunteer as a bartender. He still joins the Walking Group and aims for 10,000 steps a day. He still skis. And he still loves learning new things.
His hope for Seba Seniors is simple: maintain the buildings, honour the legacy, and keep offering a place where people can belong. A place where purpose lives. A place where community thrives.
When you hear Gene talk about Seba Seniors, you hear pride, humour, and a lifetime of memories. But more than anything, you hear gratitude — for the people, the place, and the chance to be part of something that matters.
