Honourable senators, today I rise in the chamber with a sombre heart to pay tribute to a friend of mine, Peter Hannam, who peacefully passed away on June 5, 2025, at the age of 85. Peter Frances Hannam was an icon in the Ontario agricultural sector, but he was also an exceptional man, friend, mentor and farmer whose legacy is much too profound to fit into a short statement.

Peter Hannam was born on his family farm outside Guelph, Ontario, and, in his own words, he “. . . never left home and never had a real job.”

Everyone knew that Peter was also a dedicated professional and an innovator in the agricultural sector, with a particular interest in discovering how to adapt soybeans so they could grow in our Ontario climate. According to Peter’s son Greg, “It was a love, a passion and a hobby.”

His success was integral to the expansion of soybeans as a major Canadian crop. He went on to be co-founder and president of First Line Seeds, an innovative soybean seeds company bringing new technology and marketing opportunities for Canadian growers. He also occupied numerous leadership roles with various agricultural organizations, advocating for farmers with respect, integrity and skill. He was described by his staff and colleagues as fair but firm, a quiet, humble and generous leader.

As his dear friend Kathie MacDonald told me, “The impact that Peter had on many of his employees can be seen in where their careers have led them.”

He was inducted into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2006, the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2015, and he received an Honorary Doctorate of Science in 2007 from the University of Guelph. He was also a founding father of the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program, or AALP, the program I am proud to have delivered for 12 years.

He was a constant supporter, donor and regular presenter at AALP seminars. Peter also participated in 4-H, a youth leadership program you all know I hold close to my heart. He was a mentor, a champion and a leader in the agricultural industry, with many professional accomplishments, but I will always remember him for his integrity, his generosity and his kindness, before all else.

For many, Peter was always more than a farmer or a professional. He was an inspiration, a mentor and a friend. He will live on in the countless lives he has touched and in the joy and love he effortlessly shared.

My condolences are with his children — Rob, Greg, Carol — and their families. May he rest in peace.

Thank you. Meegwetch.