JOHN OLSON

May 18, 1944 ~ December 24, 2018 Born in Winnipeg, Johns curious nature led him to become a reporter for the Winnipeg Free Press. He moved to Calgary where he met Meredith, the love of his life & wife for 50 years. Here he began working as a photojournalist before moving to Ottawa to start a family and work for the federal government in communications while completing a degree in political science. After retirement, he started his own successful consulting business. John, ever inquisitive and observant, his artistic nature came through in his lifetime love of photography, capturing scenes from his many travels to finding beauty closer to home. John had been diagnosed with congestive heart failure and battled bladder cancer and other illnesses. Thankfully, his remarkable perseverance and zest for life sustained him long past when his illnesses should
have ended his time with us. Thanks go to the dedicated & compassionate staff of the Civic Hospital & the University of Ottawa Heart Institute for their support.  

Greg Wood

June 13.1960 ~ February 24. 2019
Greg was like a magnet for everyone around him. He was a friendly, chatty guy with a wonderful sense of humour and a huge fondness for
his kids, step-kids & grandkids. Born and raised on the farm near Cypress River.MB.where he lived, he spent his life in the meat industry as a
butcher and loved it, building a valuable family business from farm to the city of Winnipeg. Greg looked forward to each hunting season too & loved to tell the stories long-after. He also loved to BBQ, steaks especially, and enjoyed trying new recipes. Greg & his wife Lisa Clouston
became passionate about Holistic Management on their farm about the
same time they became members of HLC, a natural fit. They shared their success stories giving presentations around the Prairies, of raising Tamworth & registered Large Black pigs and South Devon cattle. Greg enjoyed watching them all live happy, comfortable lives from beginning
to end. Unfortunately, Greg developed heart issues in his late 40’s and was waiting for a heart transplant. He always had a great attitude and tremendous stamina, astounding medical professionals with his abilities. Greg leaves a huge empty space for those who knew him, but his legacy lives on through his immediate family & the farmland he tended, carrying his good work forward for a healthy future. The world needs a lot more Greg’s!

Sam Fleming

November 23, 1939 ~November 10, 2018
Sam Fleming was one of the original Founders of the Leeds County Draft Horse Clubin 1986. Their first Field Day was held at his farm in the Fall of 1987. Sam passed away November 10, 2018 after a brief battle with cancer. Born November 23,1929 in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Sam was married to Audrey, née Mullan, for 66 years. Although born and raised in Northern Ireland, Sam moved his young family to Canada in 1959 to embark on
a career with Algoma Ore Properties. Never one to sit idle even in retirement he relocated to Delta, ON.to his beloved farm on which he spent many happy years. Most recently of Echo Bay, Sam will be missed by many. A donation in Sam’s memory was made to Heritage Livestock Canada by a longtime Draft horse friend; many thanks for this kind gesture.

Don Acres

November 3, 1931 ~ January 28, 2019

While delivering lambs in the barn in the early hours, Don passed away suddenly and peacefully with his wife Fran of 58 years by his side. Born in Osgoode.ON. both Don & his brother Dwayne and their father Cecil were well known in Canada & around the world in sheep-circles for their expertise & keen eye. Cecil was also known for his pedigree Tamworth’s. A farmer from birth, Don loved all animals but particularly his sheep. While Don bred Suffolks and North Country Cheviots from the 1950s until his death, he also bred Dorsets, Hampshires and Texels for brief periods of time. With strong emphasis on breed characteristics very evident in his breeding program, his animals were in strong demand by prominent breeders across the country. The Four Ks prefix (after their 4 children) can be found in many pedigrees, particularly in North Country Cheviots. Success of his sheep at the major exhibitions and shows across the country, including the Royal Winter Fair (premier exhibitor) and at the different All Canada Classics as well as the Ten Acres Production Sales were a source of pride for him. While serving as president and board member of the Canadian Sheep Breeders’ Association he worked diligently to improve and ensure the accuracy of the registration system. After retiring from his teaching career of 36 years he was active as a sheep judge at many of Canada’s prominent shows including the Toronto Royal. Don loved his Toronto Maple Leafs and played with the ‘Arnprior Goodtimers’ hockey team until well into his 70’s. Don was an exceptional person whose spirit, kindness and wisdom touched many people throughout his life. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.