04/30/2024
This past week our community lost a visionary leader. Colin was someone who put his heart and soul into everything that he did. From pulling weeds and helping build greenhouses to working through business plans with young farmers. His enthusiasm and boundless energy was infectious to be around. Clearwater Farm is a testament to his ability to build community from the ground up.
One of my favourite memories of Colin is that first winter building greenhouses. This meant long days working in sub zero temperatures to try and get the structures up in time for the next growing season. Not once did he complain. The odd night he would stay at the farmhouse, either too tired to go home or wanting to be up with the sun to get started on work the next day. He would opt for a spot on the old carpet beside the stairs, tucked into a sleeping bag with his dog Mars beside him, snoring away happily at the end of a long day. By the time we got up at 6:30am to make coffee he’d be on his computer typing away. Most likely applying for a grant, putting together a report for the board, or fleshing out a new idea which he would be quick to share with a twinkle in his eye.
His son Reid says it best, “Colin was an incredible bright spot in the lives of countless friends, colleagues, and family members. He knew all of this but at times mental illness can turn even the brightest days into cloudy ones.”
I was fortunate to spend 8 years working with Colin. He was a colleague but most of all he was a friend and mentor. He welcomed me into his family, he helped me get help when I needed it most, and he helped shape me into the person that I am today. His loss is immense and he will be greatly missed by all.
