News related to Our Sympathies

The OAC community mourns the passing of alumnus Clay Switzer, OAC '51. Clay served as a dedicated faculty member, former Dean of OAC, and Deputy Minister of Agriculture, setting a standard of leadership and selflessness.

Clay was a remarkable individual whose passion for OAC was evident in everything he did. His dedication to nurturing agricultural education and commitment to the community were unparalleled. He forged a successful career, impacting countless lives through his work and mentorship.

The OAC community mourns the passing of alumnus John Gerald Vanderspank, OAC '98A class president. Ken was admired for his scientific insight and talents, especially in the area of data analysis, which significantly benefited the Department’s cropping systems research program for over 30 years.  

The OAC community is mourning the passing of Dr. Jim Atkinson, U of G rugby coach and OAC professor emeritus.

The long-time rugby coach and Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) faculty member passed away on Monday, July 3, 2023 at the age of 76. 

The OAC community mourns the passing of Ken Janovicek, research assistant in the Department of Plant Agriculture on Friday, June 23, 2023. Ken was admired for his scientific insight and talents, especially in the area of data analysis, which significantly benefited the Department’s cropping systems research program for over 30 years.  

It is with sympathy that we share the passing of Pieter Groenevelt on February 10, 2023. Piet was a professor in the School of Environmental Sciences from 1973-2002 and then a professor emeritus until his death.

It is with sympathy that we share the passing of Kenneth Monteith, alumnus of the Ridgetown Agricultural College (now Ridgetown Campus). Ken was a fierce advocate of the College, supporting Ridgetown through fundraising and serving on the board. He received a Westag Alumnus of Honour Award, and an Outstanding Service Award from the Ontario Agricultural College, University of Guelph. 

It is with sympathy that we share the passing of Dr. Hank Orr (BSA 1943) on January 19, 2023. After graduating from OAC and serving in World War II, Hank became a faculty member in the Poultry Science Department (now Department of Animal Biosciences) in 1946. He retired in 1984 and was inducted into the Canadian Poultry Research Network Hall of Fame in 2021.

It is with sympathy that we share the passing of Dr. Jack Alex on January 14, 2023. Jack joined the Department of Botany (later the School of Environmental Science) in 1968. Two of his lasting professional legacies were serving on the committee which oversaw the creation of The Arboretum at the University of Guelph, and writing the book Ontario Weeds.

It is with great sympathy that we share the passing of Robert (Bob) E. Logan, OAC Class of 1954 and Order of OAC member, on December 6, 2022.