Cattle producers across the country are mourning the loss of Reg Schellenberg, president of the Canadian Cattle Association, who died suddenly Dec. 2.
Schellenberg from Beechy, Sask., had been president since March.
Federal agriculture minister Marie-Claude Bibeau was among those who paid tribute to him. She had been scheduled to meet with him in Regina at Canadian Western Agribition Dec. 3.
She told reporters her pleasure at attending Agribition was overshadowed by Schellenberg’s passing. She said she last saw him in Alberta in the summer.
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“We talked about the livelihoods of ranchers and the differences in Canadian agriculture,” she said. “I saw first-hand how much he loved what he did. I learned a lot that day and I will remember those precious moments.”
Ryan Beierbach, a Saskatchewan CCA director, said it was a tough day for him as he met with Bibeau in place of Schellenberg.
“Reg was a mentor to me and a good friend,” he said.
Alberta agriculture minister Nate Horner offered his condolences, saying Schellenberg was a tremendous advocate for Canadian ranchers, producers and rural communities.
Melanie Wowk, chair of Alberta Beef Producers, said Schellenberg was “a true cowboy, rancher and gentleman” and would be missed.
Nathan Phinney from New Brunswick now becomes CCA president.
“Reg’s legacy and impact on the Canadian cattle industry will be felt for years to come. His gentle demeanor and strong character are qualities that many of us in the industry looked up to,” he said in a news release. “He will be fondly remembered for being a tireless advocate for cattle producers, taking a particular interest in advancing the priorities related to animal health and care, as well as protecting and preserving our industry for the next generation.”
Schellenberg had long been involved in Saskatchewan cattle advocacy with the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association.
He became a CCA director in 2010 and served on numerous committees, including foreign trade and animal health and care. He also did work with the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency.
He advocated for a national foot-and-mouth disease vaccine bank and better supports for livestock producers affected by drought.
His wife Shannon, two sons, a daughter, and grandchildren survive him.
