Pictured: Roy & Barb Semb, Lynn Galbraith-Wilson, Kent Wiebensohn's family, Brenda Reilly, Melody Stremkowski, Kevin & Cherry Buttles, Cindy Stelloh

This year’s WSRBA Honorary Member was loved by many. He loved our youth, supported our shows and clubs and would always leave you with a smile on your face. Kent Wiebensohn was a member of the Manitowoc Rabbit & Poultry Club for as long as folks can remember. He was always there to help no matter the ask. Over the years so many youth in Manitowoc County as well as across the state of Wisconsin were mentored by Kent, getting them started with English Spots. Throughout this time he donated countless animals to the auctions and supported the Manitowoc 4-H Rabbit Project in many different ways. Lora Eisner recalls that he always made sure that our youth had good stock to start their foundation with. Kent was also a strong supporter of the WSRBA and local clubs. You would see him entering our shows, supporting our raffles and enjoying the kitchens. More than once he would donate his winnings back to the club or give his raffle win to a youngster who had been hoping their ticket was drawn. Dawn Dvoracheck shared a story from a Fox Valley Show in Weyauwega – Kent had one a water fountain on the raffle but gave it to Dawn to take home and enjoy. She recalls that he was always very generous and kind to the youth. Several memories have surfaced about Kent and road trips to local and national shows. Charlotte Swade recalls a ride home from Superior where Kent followed them. They came upon construction, Charlotte did not see him so called and learned that he was following another van. She gave him directions to get back to the correct road and ended her call by saying “pedal to the metal”. A while later, there was still no sign of Kent so Charlotte called again to make sure he was ok. Apparently Kent took Charlotte’s words a little too seriously and was actually on the side of the road getting a ticket. As people shared memories of Kent there was one them that was consistent – generous and supportive. Many times this was behind the scenes and not visible to a lot of people. Donating to a local club to help with awards and judges expense. Donating the meat for a club’s kitchen to lower their overall costs. Working with the youth to ensure they have a strong foundation to start their herd with. Kent was a supporter and friend to all of us.