In the wake of a recent tragedy, we are reminded of the special bonds of friendship that are formed over generations in small communities. Today, local farmers rallied together and moved in a procession of tractors and tractor-trailers to the home of the Golden family to show their support and compassion for the recent loss of a treasured family member.

Henry Denotter has lived here his entire life and has worked as a frontline farmer for half of it. He said that farmers as a whole share their successes and, even though there is competition, there is still respect for others in the farming community.

“Farming is a cycle of life — planting, growing, harvesting, sharing. A farmer’s cycle has stopped short and this cycle will continue but without him,” said Denotter.

Local farmer Brad Anger echoed Denotter’s comments. “Farmers face challenges every day.  When someone from our community needs a hand or support, it is given unconditionally. Our hearts and prayers are with the Golden family and friends,” he said.

Today’s show of support illustrates what every farming family has known all along — that the ties that bind the farming community together remain strong and are passed on to new generations.  As Mr. Denotter said, “I will be there in one of my tractors with my grandson in the buddy seat … farmer respect on our own terms.”

The tractor rally was held on April 15 and Chris Anson was on the scene of the tractor procession for the Kingsville Times. He reported that it was hard to say just how many tractors were involved.

“They just seemed to keep coming as we waited — well over two dozen,” he said. “It was quite amazing. Each tractor/trailer pulled into the Goldens’ roundabout on their property.”

Below is a video of the procession in honour of Justin Golden.

Photos and video by Chris Anson