Formally of Thistle Ridge Farm (Guelph Township) passed away peacefully in Guelph on Thursday, May 15, 2025 in his 89th year. Son of the late Douglas and Flora Cleghorn. Survived by his wife Wilma who he married 65 years ago and their five children- David (Jim), Robin (Fiona), Heather (Steven), Holly (Steven) and Liza (Loni). Also 8 grandchildren Avery (Melanie), Sarah (Patrick), Molly (Jack), Emily (Scott), Cara (Jacob), Shawn (Kate), Megan (Rona) and Colin (Lily) as well as 4 great grandchildren Harley, Hendrix, Louis and June. Also survived by his siblings- Catherine (the late Mashtaq), Douglas (David’s twin) and Sandy (Shirley). Predeceased by Isabel (Ray). David knew as a child that he wanted to farm. He took over the home farm as a teenager and bought it in 1960, later adding additional acres. Associated with 3 breed associations, he was especially proud to be honoured as a Master Breeder by Holstein Canada and honorary president by Ontario Angus Association. He was a past president of the Canadian Clydesdale Association, the Wellington County Soil and Crop Association and Guelph Township Federation of Agriculture. He served on the Committee of Adjustment for Guelph Township. His Thistle Ridge Prefix was respected far and wide. He loved to farm! A memorial visitation will be held at the Wall-Custance Funeral Home & Chapel, 206 Norfolk St., Guelph, on Sunday, May 25th, 2025 from 1 – 4pm. A private graveside burial will be held at a later date by the family. Arrangements entrusted to the Wall-Custance Funeral Home & Chapel 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Foundation of the Guelph General Hospital or a charity of your choice. A tree will be planted in memory of J. David Cleghorn in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.
