EXETER — Jim Finkbeiner of Exeter continues to be an inspiration.

The 67-year-old Exeter man, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2009, held his third and final walk Saturday to raise money and awareness for the disease.

This year's walk started at 8:30 a.m. Saturday morning and ended 33 kilometres later at the Betty Cardno Centre in Clinton at about 2:10 p.m.

While his wife Linda told the Times-Advocate Jim wasn't able to complete the whole walk on foot, he did what he could, and his sons Russ and Rob as well as Huron-Bruce MP Ben Lobb walked the entire distance. Linda said she and Jim are very pleased with the support he has received, noting the walk has raised $1,600 so far.

The fundraising will continue with Jim's participation in the Alzheimer Society of Huron County's annual 'Walk for Memories' which takes place in five locations throughout the county Jan. 28, including in Exeter at South Huron District High School.

Jim and his entourage of supporters left Exeter town hall with the assistance of an OPP and Exeter fire department escort to the north end of town. At Vanastra, Linda said, the group was met by the Clinton fire department who led the procession into town with Jim riding in the pumper.

Linda thanked those who have shown “incredible support” for Jim and noted staff and volunteers from the Exeter Day Away program came out Saturday morning to walk with Jim and show their support.

Jim did his first long-distance walk in 2010, walking from the Exeter fire station to the station in Huron Park. Last year he increased the distance by walking from Exeter to Clinton.

Anyone who wishes to donate towards Jim's fundraising efforts can call the Finkbeiners at 519-235-4031. More information on the Jan. 28 'Walk for Memories' can be found online at www.walkformemories.ca, where you can also register for the walk. The Alzheimer Society can be reached by phone at 1-800-561-5012.