Jaime used himself as a human shield to save her life, but was killed when crushed by falling rubble.
He was one of 172 individuals, groups, and organisations recognised at the second, and final, Christchurch Earthquake Awards.
Robert Gilbert, Jaime's father, said the award brought mixed emotion for the family, especially heading into Christmas.
"It brings back a lot of memories," he said.
"Levi and India-Rose will never know their Dad, but they will always know that he was somebody special."
Mr Gilbert said the kids, with their mum - Jaime's partner Natalie O'Brien - are "doing great".
The family is staying positive and looking forward to seeing Christchurch "rise again", he said, but admitted he was doing it tough.
"Anyone who's lost a child will know that you never find closure," Mr Gilbert said.
"You learn to live with the pain but it never goes away."
Awards were presented by Mayor Bob Parker at Christ's College to people who helped in the emergency effort or were involved in community initiatives in the wake of the disaster.
Mr Parker urged recipients not to be shy when receiving their awards which recognised their "bravery, stoicism, and courage".
The last award of the night went to masked student superheroes Flat Man, and his sidekick Quake Kid, who donated 'relief boxes' to students and those in need.
"It's really cool," said the mysterious caped crusader.
"When I set out on this adventure, I never thought I'd be getting an award, on stage in lycra, from the mayor."
