Two veteran volunteers with the Wellington County Plowmen’s Association were honoured for their combined service to the organization, which stretches over several decades.
Les and Ruth Darrington, of Elora, received the honour at the association’s banquet in Alma on Oct. 19.
Association president Carman Weppler delivered the remarks.
“On behalf of the Wellington County Plowmen’s Association, Katie and I feel honoured to be recognizing a lifetime of service to our organization by Les and Ruth Darrington,” Weppler told those gathered at the community centre for the banquet.
“In July at our association barbecue we accepted their resignation where they said, and I quote, ‘We have enjoyed working with the directors of the association for the past 29 years and 19 years respectively. We have met many new people and friends during this time. We will miss this companionship, but it comes a time to move on. Thank you directors of the Wellington County Plowmen’s Association for your support.’
“It is tonight with gratitude that we take a moment to thank and recognize our friends Les and Ruth,” Weppler added. “So for those of you who did not just do the math, Les and Ruth have been with the plowmen’s association for a combined 48 years. Over this time I am sure that they have seen many faces come and go for both past directors and Queen of the Furrow.
“Some of these faces have passed away and many are still out there remembering Les and Ruth and the hard work they have done over the years to keep this organization going,” the president said.
“From doing the books and the minutes, to phone calls reminding of meetings and setting up information with OPA (Ontario Plowmen’s Association). Driving all over Ontario to attend OPA meetings, help at IPMs and visit with friends at the trailer park at the International Plowing Match. They have also seen Wellington County play host to the IPM and Les was a main force behind Wellington County putting in another bid for 2016.”
As a result of this dedication, Weppler added, “it is only right that we take a moment to show our true appreciation for the efforts they have made. There is no gift that could truly commemorate all of this volunteer time, but we have the memories.
“Memories of Les, Ruth and Heather out in the plow field completing their lands. Les coaching the 4-H sod busters. Les’ endless sense of humour as he could always see the funny side of what was going on. Then soft-spoken Ruth being sure we all had enough tea and coffee and treats at our meetings, welcoming Queen of the Furrows into her home to warm up before and after Santa Claus parades and always trying to be present at IPM Queen of the Furrow events to show some support.
“She was also sure our plowmen received their plowing match directory and cheques to be sure we had great attendance at each of our matches. These tasks that seem everyday and simple have made those who work with you enjoy what they are doing.”
The couple was presented with honourary memberships of the Wellington County Plowmen’s Association.
“You are always welcome to sit in on a meeting, come to the [barbecue] and our matches, just to say hello and see another well plowed land,” Weppler said.
The couple also received a certificate of a lifetime of service from the Wellington County Plowmen’s Association and the OPA, as well as a plate to commemorate their dedication to agriculture. The association will also be making a donation to a charity of their choice in honour of their years of service.
