George Boswall lived his entire life on Blackaddar Farms in Frenchfort, P.E.I. but he had friends all over the world.
He passed away in his home Tuesday. He was 93.
Until his last days he was a familiar face at a host of agriculture community events and the Charlottetown Driving Park.
He was breeder of many prize winning Ayrshire cattle with his son Norman and his family. One of many highlights included in 1996 winning Grand Champion with Blackaddar Emily 2 at international events.
When Blackaddar Moonbeam sold for $24,000 in the late 80s, it was the world record sale price for an Ayrshire.
“George was an institution,’’ says Russel Gammon of Semex Canada.
“He was so engaged in life. He and his family built a small herd of Ayrshires into one of the world’s very best.”
For many years the Blackaddar herd was the highest producing herd in Canada. Genetics from the farm were sold to five continents. Even the Queen owned cattle sired by Blackaddar bulls.
Boswall was raised on the farm with his two siblings Robertina and Graeme.
When his father passed away he took over the farm at the young age of 22.
In 1949, he married Laura Johnston and they raised seven children while Laura also enjoyed a busy nursing career. His wife predeceased him.
“Our father was so proud and supportive of his children, 18 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren, whether it was our academics, sporting achievements or 4-H,’’ Kathleen McCaffrey said of her late father.
“George loved to travel and had many trips oversees with Laura. His last big trip was one year ago to South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe at the age of 92 with four generations of the family attending the three weeks of the World Ayrshire Conference.’’
He was also a recognized judge of cattle and sheep.
He bought his first standardbreds more than 20 years ago. At 91, he was named P.E.I. Horseman of the Year.
He was also inducted into the Atlantic Agriculture Hall of Fame and was a honourary life member of Ayshire Canada.
Visitation is Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Belvedere Funeral Home. Funeral is Sunday at 1:30 p.m. at York United Church.