The University of Lethbridge expresses its deep condolences to the family and friends of respected agricultural leader and pioneer Dr. Ike Lanier (LLD '10), who passed away Jan. 30, 2025, at the age of 95.
Lanier was known as a leading member of the agricultural community in Alberta and Canada, having operated NeverIdle Farms near Lethbridge, since 1955.
He was at the forefront of many agricultural initiatives, including one of the earliest adopters of conservation farming, which employed a minimum tillage system. This was seen as a major advance in agriculture which saves fuel, reduces soil erosion and preserves the ecology of the soil.
Lanier earned a Bachelor of Arts from Queen's University (1953) and pioneered new crop development in southern Alberta, was an active proponent of different ways to market and transport grain and actively worked to change agricultural policies.
His record of service to the agricultural community is long standing. He served on many provincial and national committees such as the Western Barley Growers, the Winter Wheat Commission, the Canola Commission, the Canadian Wheat Growers Association and Alberta Terminals Ltd. among many others.
In 1996, Lanier was a member of an advocacy group called Farmers for Justice, and one of 14 farmers fined and briefly jailed for attempting to sell grain in the United States on the open market. In 2010, ULethbridge acknowledged his leadership and contributions to agriculture and community with an Honorary Doctor of Laws.
For a full obituary, visit the Martin Brothers website.
A Celebration of Life for Lanier and his pre-deceased wife Diana (Aug. 2022) will be held in the spring, after seeding (May-June). Date to be announced. The University will lower its flag in honour of Lanier on Monday, Feb. 10.
Contact:
Trevor Kenney | trevor.kenney@uleth.ca | mbfunerals.com/obituary/DrIke-Lanier