Wow, what a loss. I couldn't say that Mr. Habeger was anything more than an aquaintance of mine. He only ever got one calf off of us, and I never bought one from him. I talked with him a time or two on the phone about his bulls. I thought he seemed like a really good guy in my limited dealings with him. Heck, I thought it was cool that he would continue to remember me from one time to the next, let alone have a nice conversation. I hope everyone continues to pray for the family in this time of need. It is a comfort to me to know that he really was as good a guy as he seemed. He wasn't trying to sell you a calf or a bull to use, he was just that friendly. I'm not sure that would be true with all the folks who operate on the level that Kent did in this business. The following is from Breeder's World, posted by his pastor. I think it is very impressive that he was as much or more respected by those who were closest to him and just knew him as a regular neighbor and friend, as he was by those like me who held him in very high esteem for his innovation and well earned reputation in this field.
From Breeder's World:
We in the Burt area were so shocked at Kent's passing, along with all of his friends in the cattle industry. I just wanted all of you to know how special it was for my wife and I -- and for his family -- to read all these wonderful messages of remembrance and comfort. They are truly beautiful and consoling, and they provide a healing balm for his family, and many, many friends.
Kent was a giant in his field, and as a church member and family man. No words that I can say can match the heartfelt words I read on this forum about Kent and his positive influence on so many lives. Thank you for your prayers for Marti, Ryan and Mitchell. They sorely need them now and they will need them in the future. May God bless all of you. And thank God for the blessing of Kent Habeger to all of us.
-- Pastor Glenn Wilson, of the Burt Presbyterian Church, where Kent was a member and officer.
