Nadine Alexander was welcomed into the world by parents Edward and Marjorie (Abell) on August 14, 1942. Nadine made the family complete when she joined older brothers Bill and Bob. The Alexander family lived on Concession 14 in Greenock Township. She attended Narva School and then on to Walkerton District Secondary School. Growing up on the family farm had many advantages. Nadine’s father and his brothers established their own cow herds, all focusing on the Hereford breed and together they founded Alexander Brothers Herefords. Nadine took an interest and was brought into the family operation at a young age. She showed Hereford cattle in 4-H and showed the reserve champion Hereford steer in the 1958 Queen’s Guineas Royal Agricultural Winter Fair at only sixteen years old!
Shortly after graduating from high school, Nadine continued her education and attended Lougheed Business School in Kitchener. Because of her love for the farm and to assist her parents, she wanted to return home each weekend. Consequently, a neighbour informed Nadine that there was a young man, from the neighbourhood, who was working in Kitchener. The contact was made, and a ride was arranged. Little did anyone know at the time that this would be for a lifetime. Ron began working for Nadine’s father and uncles in 1964 while they bonded over their love of farming and faith. Once she completed her schooling, she began working for Roy Weiler, an accounting firm in Walkerton. Ron and Nadine were married on September 24, 1966, at Paisley Missionary Church. Once they were married, they moved to the farm, purchased their first Herefords and Crystal Brook Polled Herefords began. In 1967, their family grew with the arrival of Sherry, followed by Shane in 1970, Melanie in 1973 and Myron in 1977. Raising their family didn’t stop Nadine and Ron from their work, involving the kids from the moment they were able. Assisting with chores and jobs around the farm kept everyone busy. This included a role and a lifestyle that was molded and would remain with them for much of their lives. It wasn’t all work and no play. Every year after the hay was done, there were many family trips to Inverhuron beach, or to Dornock Inn for meals. The Wells family took trips to Niagara Falls, Algonquin Park and went to Rochester, New York, for Christmas one year. They stayed at the Holiday Inn where they met up with other family members and even brought in their own Christmas tree! The Wells family was also known for their singing. They used a motorhome to travel to many churches and sang gospel music together as a family!
Nadine and Ron dedicated many hours to perfecting their seed stock selection and marketing techniques, taking many courses throughout the years. They showed cattle at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Mark of Excellence shows and the Canadian Western Agribition, winning many banners and trophies for champion and reserve champion animals that they bred and owned. They also received gold and silver Canadian Hereford Association MOE awards during their show career. Nadine and Ron would travel out west to the fall sales to buy cattle and visit different ranches. In 1985, Crystal Brook Polled Herefords was dispersed, and Nadine and Ron began a small elite herd of Polled Herefords and began Crystal Brook Fitting Services. They ran hands-on clinics for breeders at their farm for eight years and included sessions on cattle selection, fitting, showing and judging beef cattle, genetic heritability, performance data and carcass data. From 2000 until 2002, Nadine was the president of the Ontario Western Hereford Zone. She also assisted Ron as Secretary Manager for the Ontario Hereford Association which consisted of taking photos and writing articles for the Hereford Magazine. This was a position held for 14 years. Nadine and Ron spent many hours and energy with the Junior division of the Hereford Association mentoring children and assisting them in achieving their future goals. In 2016, Nadine and Ron were honoured at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Hereford Show, receiving their 50 year membership service pin from the Canadian Hereford Association.
Nadine’s faith was the foundation of her life and began at a young age. The Alexander family were avid members of the Purdy Chapel, attending church every Sunday and Nadine attended Sunday School every week. The Alexanders were actively involved with the church until it closed, and then began attending the Paisley Missionary Church. Nadine and Ron became very involved with the church when they were married. They both taught Sunday School, and Nadine was a member of the board at the church. Nadine took her personal relationship with God very seriously. She and Ron strived to become leaders within the church to help bring friendship, knowledge and expansion within the church.
If you have been blessed to know Nadine, you were probably at one point in time, been at an event hosted at Crystal Brook Farm. Nadine loved hosting everyone at the farm, including multiple church groups and both of their daughters having their wedding receptions there as well. She kept her property up to high standards and took great pride in all of the hard work they did, especially her flower gardens and fishpond. This included receiving first and second place in the Ontario Plowmans Association, Beautification Award, associated with the plowing match. Nadine loved being in the kitchen. From cooking homemade hamburgers (all homegrown beef of course) to baking biscuits and apple pie, all lessons that she learned from her mom. Nadine enjoyed listening to gospel music and also CBC radio.
Nadine was energetic, nurturing, meticulous, and beautifully spirited. She always reminded her family that there were no shortcuts in life, and this was a lesson to be applied their whole life. Nadine and Ron had a rare relationship that was so special and that was driven by faith and love. In fact, when Ron was away for work years ago, Nadine wrote him two letters while he was gone. He kept these letters in his bible for forty-six years and held them close to his heart. Nadine’s love in her heart grew even more when her grandchildren were born. With all four grandchildren growing up down the road from the farm, they spent hours together at the pond, riding bikes, snowtubing, and taking them camping. Nadine and Ron also immersed the grandchildren into the business, taking them to many cattle shows, the Royal and Canadian Western Agribition. They took any opportunity they could to spend time with their grandchildren and loved their time together.
Over the past few years, Nadine’s health became a challenge. One she took up and never gave up. Through faith and hope, she fought the good fight, knowing that God had her in his arms. Nadine’s health started to decline, and she passed away peacefully at Chapman House, Owen Sound on Thursday, February 15, 2024, in her 82nd year.
Beloved wife of Ron Wells for 57 years. Loving mother of Sherry (Leslie) Emke, Shane Wells, all of R.R.#2 Cargill, Melanie (Doug) Colwell of Sheridan, Wyoming, and Myron Wells of Toronto. Cherished grandmother of Michael, Ashley, Miranda, and Larissa, and great-grandmother of Kenton. Nadine will be missed by many nieces, nephews, and friends. She was predeceased by her grandson Jarrett Emke, brothers Bill and Bob Alexander, and her parents Edward and Marjorie (Abell) Alexander.
A celebration of Nadine’s life will be held at her favourite place, Crystal Brook Farms, #2253 Concession 14, R.R.#2 Cargill, on Saturday, June 8, 2024, from 1 – 4 p.m., with a service at 2 p.m. Please bring your lawn chair!
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, Ontario Junior Hereford Association (cheques payable to Ontario Junior Hereford), Residential Hospice of Grey Bruce (Chapman House) or Paisley Missionary Church would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy.
Ron and family, so sorry to hear of your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nadine , one of the nicest neighbors we were so fortunate to have. Nadine you were a wonderful friend who I could always depend on. A beautiful farm that we got to enjoy daily living right across the road. May you rest in peace. Dear Ron and family, Keith and I have thought of you many times since Nadines passing. Cherish the memories 💖
Ron and family, I was saddened to hear of your loss and trust your faith and good memories are getting you through such a difficult time. Nadine was a special lady and she will be missed dearly. The years your family dedicated to the Hereford breed are much appreciated and it was a pleasure to have known and worked alongside you all. My heartfelt condolences to all the family.
Sincerely,
Dianne LeBlanc
My deepest sympathy to Ron and family. I reminisce of our Hereford visits together many years ago, and smile. Nadine was one-of-a-kind and surely a blessing upon all who met her. I certainly will always remember her, and hope that your memories bring you comfort in the time ahead.
Bro Ron, thinking of you and your family in this special season of life… Nadine was always someone that we were proud to know as her standards were that of a Godly woman!
Nadine will definitely be missed but as I’m sure you encourage yourself that it won’t be long and the trump will sound for us who remain to be caught up with the Lord!!
You both have been pillars for many who have looked up to you.
You are in my prayers at this difficult time Ps 121
God’s blessings upon y’all
Ev Gloria Hills
We are very sorry to learn of the passing of Nadine. We hope the many memories you have shared bring comfort at this time, Jackson W.I.
Ron, I have fond memories of you and Nadine when I attended the Missionary Church so many decades ago. As a teenager, I looked up to you both!
Sherry, Les and family – my sincere condolences on the loss of your mother / grandmother. Treasure the memories you share and hold the in your hearts as you walk this difficult path.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Sherry and your whole family at this sad time.
May all your precious memories help you through this difficult time.
Ron and family
Extending my deepest sympathy at this sad time. We never like to see our loved ones suffer…may all your memories of your wife,mother,grandmother,great grandmother. & friend bring you comfort in the days ahead. RIP Nadine 🙏🏻❤️
Ron and family. Sorry for the loss of Nadine. I just heard about this tonight at my church from Karen today at the family ties on Wednesday nights.
My condolences to Ron and your family. I always enjoyed talking to Nadine. She will be missed.
Deepest sympathy Sherry to you & your family
Ron And family, so sorry for your loss, she will be greatly missed.
Ron, It was 25 years ago that you and Nadine took me to my first championship banner in Toronto. I believe Nadine was more elated than I was that afternoon! That day with you guys won’t be forgotten. Thank you. I remember Nadine as always taking the time to talk and greeting you with a smile that would light up the barns at the Royal. She will be missed. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
Wayne and Edie.
Dear Ron and all the Wells family
Both Robert and I were saddened to hear the news of Nadine’s death . She was a wonderful person always with a smile . May all the memories you have of her be a comfort to you.
Dear Ron, Sherry and Les and the entire family,
We are so saddened to hear of Nadine’s passing. We have many good memories of our traveling together to visit many Hereford herds. Nadine had such a wonderful kind way and a great smile. She will be missed so much.
Sending you our love and prayers,
Gary and Ann Maycock
Dear Rob
My deepest sympathies to you and the family on the loss of Nadine. She was a lovely lady and her love for Hereford cattle and breeders was endless. She will be greatly missed by all.
Sincerely
David Ross
Ron & Family,
So sorry to hear of Nadine’s passing. My deepest condolences to you & your family. May you find comfort in all your memories of her.
Cathy, Ashley & Ryan
I was so sorry to read of Nadine’s passing. Our families were friends from childhood but since I had moved farther away I did not see her very often. Last time I saw her was a few years ago when we had been at the family picnic at Bradley School & we went over to Purdy cemetery and Nadine was walking there & I recognized her so we had a chat. Treasure the many memories.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Evelyn Edmonstone
Shane and family,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your mom. May your memories you hold so dear help you heal through this most difficult time.
To the Wells family , our deepest condolences. Karl and Sandra Allen
Ron and Family
Sincere Condolences to your family. So many childhood memories. Nadine will be missed by all who knew her.
Ron
I was so sorry to hear of Nadine’s passing. Have so many happy memories of your friendship and help through our many years together in the Hereford business. My thoughts are with you
Lois
Ron and Family,
So sorry to hear about Nadine’s passing. She was such a big help and so generous with her knowledge and time when we were first starting with Herefords at MoorehavenFarms.
Our sympathies to Ron and family.
Les, Sherry and family.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Your New-Life Mills family sends our deepest condolences.
I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT NADINE. MY HEART GOES OUT TO RON AND ALL YOUR FAMILY. MAY SHE REST IN PEASE.
Dear Ron and family,
Our sincerest prayers and sympathy to you in this hour of grief. We have been blessed to know Nadine these past few years, during which she was a constant voice of godly wisdom and strength. We will never forget our last conversation with Nadine, in which she declared once again, “I surrender all!” We give thanks to God for giving us this powerful testimony of His love and grace, in the person of Nadine. We rejoice that Nadine is now experiencing the joy of the presence of her Saviour. And we pray that the Father of Mercies, the God of All Comfort, surround you with His compassion as you grieve. May we all cling to the promises that Nadine knew fully well: we shall see each other again, when we place our hope in Jesus.
In Christian love,
Zack, Emma, & Wesley Thornton
Dear Uncle Ron, Sherry & Les, Shane, Mel & Doug, Myron and families. Our deepest sympathy to you all. We love you and are keeping you close in prayer and in our hearts. Aunt Nadine was and always will be special to us.
Terry and Deb Jantzi
Dear Ron and family,
We are so sorry for your loss but we are glad that Nadine is now without pain and happy in the presence of her Lord.
Ted and Joanne
Shane and family. Sorry to hear about the passing of your mom. I wish to send my condolences to Shanae and the family. Thinking of you all.
Our sincere sympathy to you Ron and your family at this sad time. Nadine was always an inspiration to young show people.
Ron & family
Our condolences to you all
Dale & Emma Woelfle
Shane and family, I am so sorry of the passing of your mom.. Thinking of you.
Ron and Family
Nadine was a wonderful person. Her true love for God was shown in her compassion for all.
We were very fortunate to have met such a beautiful family.
We enjoyed the time we got spend with her.
We send our deepest condolences to Ron and families.
RON & FAMILY – NADINE WAS A BEAUTIFUL LADY AND WILL BE MISSED. YOU ARE IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. TREASURE YOUR MEMORIES.
Our sincere condolences, Uncle Ron , Sherry, Les & family, Shane, Melanie, Doug & family, & Myron. At this time of such loss, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Aunt Nadine will be greatly missed by all that had the privilege to know her. The night skies now shine a little brighter.
I have lots of fond memories of my time spent at the farm
Tim & Fran Alexander
Ron and families: We are sorry to hear of Nadine’s passing and the difficulties she went through. We share your burden may God’s Peace help during these difficult times.
Dearest Ron and Family,
Nadine will be dearly missed.
Her strength and dignity were never compromised.
She welcomed and loved us always.
May all she poured into each and everyone of us live on to make this world a better place evident of the love and grace of Jesus Christ.
She’s with her Saviour now rejoicing like we can’t imagine.
Our deepest condolences to you all.
Until we meet with her again we will not forget her.
Uncle Ron, Sherry, Shane, Melanie, Myron & Families.
Our deepest sympathies on the loss of your beloved Wife, Mother & Grandmother.
Aunt Nadine will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know her. May you find peace and love in the memories you cherish.
Carol & Aunna Wells
Our sympathies and thoughts to Ron and the family. Robert (Bob) and I spent our early years with the Alexander families at Purdy’s Sunday School and also at Narva School so have know Nadine most of our lives. Your faith is now your victory! God Bless your families and give them peace and comfort at this time! God Bless all of you. Robert and Reta
Dear Ron and Family,
Our deepest sympathies on the passing of your beloved Nadine. A beautiful wife,mom,grandma. Nadine brought great joy to all who knew her. May all your wonderful memories help you through this time. She is will always be in your heart. She is now watching over you from heaven. May the Lord comfort you all as a family as Nadine had strong faith and is now in the Lord’s care. Praying for you at this time and as the days move forward for each precious day.
Sherry and Roger Caldwell
Tiffany and Brent Henhoeffer 🙏❤🙏
Ron and Family, our sincere condolences. Lots of fond memories.
My Condolences to the WHOLE Family. Nadine has been a true neighbor my whole life. I remember her riding her Palomino horse when I was a child. When Les, won his motorcycle, she wanted to see how fast her horse would run. So up the 14th they rode, I believe Les clocked her horse at or about 35 mile/hr. I never knew her to slow down!