The Kent Federation of Agriculture is honouring the life and legacy of a longtime member by raising money for the London Health Sciences Foundation.
Harry "legal beagle" Lawson, lived and farmed his whole life and served as a member of the KFA and Ontario Federation of Agriculture for more than 30 years.
Lawson is remembered throughout the agriculture community as someone who made themselves available to anyone who asked at any time.
"Harry was involved with many things," said KFA Director Louis Roesch. "He changed the rules, bylaws, and regulations that benefit others in a positive way today. He was a silent champion that went before us."
Lawson is known for his accomplishments for fair compensation on gas lines including closing wells.
"The perimeters of his work are still being used today by legal firms," said Roesch.
Lawson passed away surrounded by his family at the age of 68 on February 7, 2022 at the London Health Science Centre from complications after receiving a heart transplant.
"He had the ability to bring calm and direction to any agitated situation," said Roesch. "He was highly respected by all."
The KFA is hosting a barbecue in honour of Lawson's life and legacy on Saturday, August 20 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Dawn-Euphemia Community Centre located at 6213 Mill Street in Florence.
"From the tremendous care that harry received, his wish was to create an endowment of at least $50,000 for the creation of scholarships to support doctors and nurses in the cardiac, transplant, and CCU 5th floor departments at the London Health Science Centre," said Roesch.
Foundation staff will be on-site to collect donations and issue charitable receipts during the fundraiser. All proceeds will go to the London Health Sciences Foundation in honour of Harry Lawson.
