By: Michael Bennett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Ridgetown Independent News
Four East Kent residents will be enshrined in the Kent Agricultural Hall of Fame in November.
Janet Campbell of Harwich Twp., Barry Robert Kearney of Howard Twp., Patricia and Edgar and VanRabaeys of the Thamesville will be part of the Induction Class of 2026. Edward J. (Ed) Tomecek, of Chatham Twp., is the fifth inductee.
Rick Youlton, Chair of the Hall of Fame, announced this year’s inductees, who have all made positive influences on agriculture in the Chatham-Kent community, during the June 8 Council meeting.
Campbell is being honoured for their work with 4-H in Chatham-Kent.Campbell, who many refer to as the Heart of 4H in Chatham-Kent, has focused on mentoring youth, supporting fellow volunteers, and strengthening agriculture-based programs to build a stronger, more resilient agricultural community.
Kearney founded Kearney Planters on Turin Line in 1979 after he could not find a specific part on the market. He modified his own planter, which caught the attention of neighbouring farmers, leading to his company’s 48 years of building and modifying custom planting equipment to meet the needs of local farmers.
The VanRabaeys worked side by side to stand up for producers and were advocates for fairness within the agricultural industry. Their kindness, mentorship and work ethic left a deep impression on local youth whom they mentored at the University of Thames Sales Yard.’
Tomecek has played a significant role in maintaining the viability and future of the Ontario processing vegetable industry.
The four local inductees follow three East Kent residents who were enshrined in the Kent Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2025.
Jean and Bill Sloan, founders of Sloans’ Christmas Tree Farms near Bothwell, were honoured posthumously, while Bill Jaques, owner of Sunshine Farms in Zone Twp., was also inducted.
This year’s five inductees will be honoured during a luncheon and ceremony on Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the Hidden Hills Golf and Country Club in Oungah.
The day will begin with a ‘Meet and Greet’ at 11 a.m., followed by lunch and presentations.
Tickets can be obtained by calling Kathy Vanek at 519-683-2929.