On behalf of 50,000 grain farmers from across Canada, I am writing to mourn the passing of a great friend to Canadian agriculture, Allan Ling, chairman of the Atlantic Grains Council and son of P.E.I.
Allan was directly involved in the formation of my organization, Grain Growers of Canada, in 2000 when he worked with his fellow Canadian grain farmers to establish a unified national voice in Ottawa. Allan was universally respected for his wit and his sage council was sought wherever he went. A passionate advocate, he championed the potential of agriculture at every opportunity, helping us achieve the strong industry we have today.
We wish his wife Jan, as well as his family and friends strength and strong memories to carry them over the next few days, weeks, months and years.
Know that your loss is felt on farms across Canada, and we thank Allan for all he did for Canadian agriculture.
Jeff Nielsen, Olds, Alta.,
president, Grain Growers of Canada