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Stewart Farming celebrated its centennial amidst family, friends and supporters

Stewart Farming’s milestone 100th year was honoured on Friday, June 30 by the County of Stettler.
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On Friday, June 30, Stewart Farming, just west of Byemoor celebrated 100 years of farming, but it was a joint celebration, as Wilbur Stewart also celebrated his 90th year.

Stewart Farming was honoured by the County of Stettler with the Century Farm Award.

Originally started by Earl Stewart in 1916, the farm has been under continuous ownership of the Stewart family since.

“Wilbur Stewart, his sons and grandsons and their families have built a large, modern farm to be proud of,” said Les Stulberg, county councillor. “Congratulations to the Stewart family on 100 years of farming and best of luck in the future.”

The afternoon program saw many dignitaries speak and bring well wishes to Wilbur and Peggy Stewart and family.

In attendance was more than 300 people.

Among those who spoke were MP Kevin Sorenson, County Reeve Wayne Nixon, Les Stulberg, Rev. Ross Helgeton, Brian Jean, Jason Kenney, MLA Rick Strankman, and Lee Gunderson.

They all presented Wilbur with items to commemorate the occasion.

The evening was emceed by Rev. Helgeton, and before supper of a steak barbecue, the floor was open for all attendees to share their stories and memories of Wilbur.

At the occasion, Wilbur expressed his core value of believing in God.

“I would like to honour my father and mother, without whom I wouldn’t be here,” said Wilbur. “I am grateful for being blessed with a daughter and three sons; 13 grandchildren; and 16 great grandchildren.”

Wilbur further added that it was his dad who taught him to work and the virtue of honesty.

“I don’t own anything. I only try to manage or be a steward of the land, and my job is to leave it all in as good or in better shape,” Wilbur stated. “When I leave I will pass the torch and the flame will go on.”

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