The rancher from Beechy, Saskatchewan and president of the Canadian Cattle Association passed away suddenly on Friday, December 2.

Schellenberg was elected as President of the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) on March 25. He served for more than a decade in various roles with the CCA starting with his election to represent Saskatchewan on the Board of Directors in 2010.

Schellenberg is survived by his wife Shannon, two sons, a daughter and nine grandchildren. His son Coy and daughter-in law Lauralie represent the fourth generation in the family ranching partnership.

The following statement was released by the Canadian Cattle Association:

It is with tremendous sorrow that the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) shares the news of the sudden passing of our President, Reg Schellenberg, on December 2, 2022.

“Reg’s legacy and impact on the Canadian cattle industry will be felt for years to come. His gentle demeanor and strong character are qualities that many of us in the industry looked up to,” said Nathan Phinney, who will now become CCA’s new President. “He will be fondly remembered for being a tireless advocate for cattle producers, taking a particular interest in advancing the priorities related to animal health and care, as well as protecting and preserving our industry for the next generation.”

Reg was first elected as a director to the CCA in 2010 and became CCA’s President on March 25, 2022. He served as co-chair of the Foreign Trade Committee from 2020 to 2022 and co-chaired the Animal Health and Care Committee with Pat Hayes from 2016 to 2020. He also represented CCA on the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA). Prior to the creation of the Animal Health and Care Committee, Reg chaired the Animal Care Committee.

With heavy hearts, CCA’s board and staff will continue to push forward on the priorities that were important to Reg, as well as cattle producers across Canada.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with Reg’s wife, Shannon, his children, and his grandchildren during this very difficult time.

The chair of the Alberta Beef Producer also expresses her condolences

“My husband Miles and I express our overwhelming sadness over the sudden passing of Reg Schellenberg,” said Melanie Wowk, ABP Chair. “Our paths first crossed through cattle industry politics but soon developed into a friendship with Reg and his wife Shannon. We had an amazing time experiencing their ranch and hospitality for several days, and always managed at least a meal together when attending industry events.”

Nathan Phinney from New Brunswick, who was CCA Vice-President, will now become the CCA President.