GUELPH — Accomplished farmer, farm leader and soybean innovator Peter Hannam is being remembered for his contributions to Ontario agriculture. Hannam, 85, died June 5 at Hospice Wellington.
“We are deeply saddened by news of the passing of former OFA President Peter Hannam (1977-1979),” current OFA president Drew Spoelstra posted on X, also describing Hannam as a “dedicated leader, a passionate advocate for Ontario agriculture and a mentor to many.”
Hannam’s obituary recounts that he was born on the family farm outside of Guelph and spent his whole life there. He achieved professional success and numerous accolades but was most proud to say that “he never left home and never had a real job.” This humility was one of his defining characteristics, along with integrity, discipline, collaboration and inspiring rural youth. After graduation from Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) at the University of Guelph in 1962, he quickly made changes to Woodrill Farms and set it on a path to grow into the thriving agri-business that it is today.
He’s remembered for his business accomplishments, including his role in leading a group of 12 seed growers to create an innovative soybean seed company, First Line Seeds, in 1982. Hannam and the company had a clear focus on expanding soybeans as a major Canadian crop despite our short growing season. He championed Canadian agriculture and rural communities through leadership roles in the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Trust, the Board of Directors of the John Labatt company, and other roles.
The father of three and grandfather of nine was inducted into the Canadian Agriculture Hall of Fame (2006) and the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame (2015). He also received an Honorary Doctorate of Science (D. Sc.) from University of Guelph (2007). His wife, Sandra, predeceased him.
His family will receive friends and loved ones at the Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph on Sunday, June 22, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Reception to follow. Mass will be celebrated at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate in Guelph on June 23 at 10:30 a.m. with a Committal Service to follow at Marymount Cemetery.
