Francis Walsh excelled in many facets of agriculture, from 4-H to support of farm organizations to innovative beef herd management.  He did this while expanding his farm operation and bringing family members into the business.

Francis was a keen 4-H member, winning many awards, including trips to provincial and national conferences.  He was an influential 4-H leader for over 30 years, with many of his members achieving successful careers in the agricultural industry.  Francis has been described as community-minded, motivational, enthusiastic, committed, energetic and a good speaker.

Francis served as county director and in executive positions with the Peterborough County Federation of Agriculture, Soil and Crop and Beef Improvement Associations.  He was involved with the Ontario Cattlemen, Farm Safety Association, Hereford Club, Peterborough Exhibition, the Co-operators Insurance board and provided land for the International Plowing Match in 2006.  Francis continues to support his church and is a Past Grand Master of the Knights of Columbus.

Francis being a “lifelong learner,” was willing to share his innovative ideas with rural or urban groups, hosting tours at Skibbereen Farms.  His passion was to improve beef herd productivity.  He was the first in the county to enrol in the Beef Improvement Ontario measuring system.  He assisted in creating the successful Weaning Weight Program and secured the first provincially sanctioned bull test station, operated by son, Paul.

In 1979, Francis and Rita Walsh and family were declared the Farm Family of the Year.

Nominated by Jeff Leal, 2019