Former Lambton-Middlesex MP and Canadian agriculture minister Ralph Ferguson died Sunday at the age of 90.
Mr. Ferguson was elected as the Liberal MP for Lambton-Middlesex Riding in 1980. He held positions as deputy whip, and parliamentary secretary to the ministers of small business and finance, and briefly served as the agriculture minister in 1984 before losing the election of that year. He was re-elected in 1988 until his retirement from politics in 1993.
Mr. Ferguson farmed most of his life in Brooke Township, building his operation over the years to include cash crops, eggs, pork and beef.
He was one of the "founding fathers" of supply management in Canada and worked with other farmers to promote clean burning ethanol-blended fuels.
A highlight of his political career came in 1983 when he accompanied Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau on a trade mission to several Asian countries.
Ralph Ferguson was inducted into the Ontario, Middlesex, and Lambton agriculture halls of fame.
Due to COVID-19, a private burial will take place. A celebration of Ralph’s life will be arranged at a later date.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, London Health Sciences Foundation - Transplant Unit, or any charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Dennings of Watford.