3 minute read
A lasting legacy at the crest of the hill
In the sprawling plains of Marwayne, Alta, where the land meets the sky with an unyielding embrace, there exists a testament to dedication, resilience, and the enduring spirit of family.
A t the crest of a hill, overlooking their domain from all directions, Marvin and Deb George have crafted a legacy that transcends mere farming and ranching; it is a story of passion, perseverance, and boundless love for the land.
The journey of Hillcrest Ranch Ltd. began in 1978 when Marvin and Deb embarked on their shared dream of ranching and farming. Their operation, aptly named for its geographic advantage, started with a blend of cattle and farmland, with a vision to sustain their livelihood through hard work, determination, and a touch of pragmatism.
While Marvin tended to the cattle and horses, Deb, with her career as an x-ray technician, provided the essential support to keep their dream afloat.
The early years were marked by challenges, as is often the case with pioneering endeavours. Yet, armed with a thirst for knowledge and fueled by their collective experiences, the Georges weathered the storms of uncertainty and emerged stronger, wiser, and more resilient. As their family grew, so too did their aspirations.
Two sons, Garth and Blaine, became the torchbearers of their parents’ legacy, each carving their path while staying true to the values instilled in them by Marvin and Deb.
Garth, the elder son, ventured beyond the confines of the ranch to pursue a career in flying. However, the call of the land proved too strong to resist, and he soon found himself drawn back to the roots of his upbringing.
Armed with newfound knowledge and a fresh perspective, Garth embraced farming, breathing new life into the family legacy.
Blaine, on the other hand, inherited his parents’ passion for cattle, seamlessly integrating himself into the fabric of second-generation ranching.
Together with his partner, Erika, he oversees the operations of a thriving commercial cow herd while venturing into the realm of purebred breeding—a testament to the Georges’ commitment to innovation and adaptation in an ever-evolving industry.
Indeed, the path of farming and ranching is fraught with challenges, from the capricious whims of weather to the relentless march of technological progress.
Yet, through it all, the Georges have remained steadfast in their resolve, finding solace and strength in the unwavering support of their family and community.
As they reflect on a lifetime spent in harmony with the land, the Georges offer sage advice to those who dare to follow in their footsteps: cherish the bonds of family, embrace the relentless pursuit of knowledge, and above all, never shy away from hard work. For it is through the crucible of adversity that true resilience is forged, and it is in the embrace of loved ones that life’s greatest joys are found.
In honouring Marvin George as our Cattleman of the Month, we pay tribute not only to his remarkable achievements but also to the enduring spirit of family, community, and the timeless bond between mankind and the land “lending a hand, receiving a hand.”
As the sun sets over the rolling hills of Hillcrest Ranch, one cannot help but marvel at the legacy that Marvin and Deb have built—a legacy that will endure for generations to come.
