November 13, 2020
Linda Lynne Edwards passed away suddenly on November 13th, 2020. She was 77. At her bedside was Brian Mennell, the love of her life.
Linda was raised on a farm in Saskatchewan, and after working as a social worker in Saskatchewan, and in community development in Vancouver, she switched career direction, completed a Masters degree in Entomology, and went back to the land.
She started an integrated crop management business (focusing largely on tree fruit) in the North Okanagan, and relocated to Cawston in the Similkameen Valley, becoming a partner with Brian on their organic farm.
The valley became the laboratory in which she applied her organic scientific expertise, vision and dedication to research, such that she has been instrumental in organic tree fruits becoming one of the more successful sectors of agriculture in the country.
Through her work on the boards of various associations, Linda's expertise has long informed and influenced provincial and federal organic standards and certification.
Linda forged a path in a largely male-dominated agricultural world, and mentored many women on that path. She inspired and gave a helping hand to many others in their various chosen careers. She also exceptionally modeled that success can come with commitment, follow-through, and a good work ethic.
Linda was known for her extensive vegetable garden; her flower beds (she was especially proud of her irises); her freshly baked bread; her devotion to her chickens; and her voracious reading (she wore out more than a few Kindles).
Linda's favourite and oft-quoted author was Terry Pratchett. He wrote that, "No one is actually dead until the ripples they cause in the world die away."
Linda's ripples will long be with us.