Agricultural icon Ron Helwer dies at 92

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This article was published 24/05/2025 (195 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Ron Helwer, a visionary agricultural entrepreneur and longtime community leader in Brandon, passed away on Friday at age 92.

Born and raised in Libau, Helwer leaves behind a legacy deeply rooted in innovation, leadership and service. He married Vera Katazinski in 1956, and together they raised three children — Sherry, Reg and Gail — while building a life centred on family, agriculture and community.

Helwer’s influence in Canadian agriculture spanned more than seven decades. He began his business career in 1952 alongside his father, Fred, and brother, Harvey, running a Massey-Harris dealership in Libau.

In the years that followed, he expanded his agricultural pursuits, including the establishment of Shur-Gro Farm Services in Brandon in 1968. Under his leadership, Shur-Gro grew into a benchmark for service, innovation and agricultural advancement in Western Canada.

Known for his forward-thinking approach, Helwer was a pioneer in adopting new agricultural technologies. His company was among the first to offer custom applications, soil testing, field scouting and precision farming practices that significantly boosted farm productivity and profitability in the region.

He also founded Can-Pro Equipment, a firm dedicated to the sale and service of field spraying equipment.

In recognition of his lifelong dedication to Canadian agriculture, Helwer was inducted into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2023, alongside six other national leaders. At the age of 90, he was still actively working with Shur-Gro, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the industry.

“When I think of all the things that I’ve done, I’ve always tried to be forward-looking, looking at new ways of doing things,” Helwer told Sun in a 2023 interview. “Agriculture has always had those opportunities.”

Beyond his professional achievements, Helwer made significant contributions to the communities he served. He coached youth baseball and hockey, served as director and president of the Brandon Ski Team and played a key role in organizing the 1979 Canada Winter Games in Brandon. In 1986, he was named Brandon Business Person of the Year, and later awarded a lifetime membership in the Brandon Chamber of Commerce.

Helwer’s dedication extended to educational and civic institutions as well. He served as president of the Brandon University Foundation in the mid-1990s, earning the prestigious Apex Award in 2002 for his leadership and service.

His contributions to agricultural organizations were equally extensive. He helped establish the Western Fertilizer and Chemical Dealers’ Association, held leadership roles with the National Fertilizer Solution Association in the U.S. and was honoured multiple times by the Canadian Association of Agri-Retailers, including induction into its Retailer Hall of Fame.

Ron Helwer’s enduring impact on Canadian agriculture and rural communities is undeniable. He will be remembered not only as an innovator and industry leader but also as a generous mentor and pillar of his community.

Details about a memorial service are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.

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