The dairy industry and the STgenetics® family suffered a deep loss with the unexpected passing of Paul Detwiler. His absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt not only within our company, but throughout the main lives and communities he has touched over the years.
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For STgenetics®, Paul was far more than a leader. He was the driving force, visionary and steadfast hand behind the development and growth of the Ohio Heifer Center. Through his undenied passion and dedication, he helped build a program that has become a shining example of innovation, technology and genetic advancement with the dairy industry.
Under Paul’s leadership, the operation experienced tremendous growth and success, but for those who worked alongside him will remember something greater, the way he led people. Paul earned the respect of colleagues across the entire STgenetics® organization because he led with authenticity, integrity and an unwavering dependability. He cared deeply about the work, the animals, the customers and more importantly the people around him. Over his 15 years with STgenetics®, Paul has impacted numerous employees and interns with his compassionate leadership.
“Paul was a trusted, caring, and special friend, a hardworking and humble man who genuinely cared about people and mentoring others. We are all blessed to have had the opportunity to share time with Paul,” says Juan F. Moreno, STgen™ Founder and CEO. “Paul leaves behind an incredible legacy and an enormous void within our company and within the many lives he touched throughout the industry and our communities.”
Paul took great pride in advancing STgenetics® technology and innovation through research at the Ohio Heifer Center. He was instrumental in the data collection that contributed to the development of the EcoFeed® Indexes and the Robotic Cow Indexes, that will continue to move the dairy industry forward. Yet beyond the research and accomplishments, there was nothing that brought a bigger smile to Paul’s face than developing and caring for exceptional cattle and seeing the success that followed.
Throughout his lifetime, Paul received many well-deserved honors for his contributions to agriculture and the dairy industry. Paul graduated from the Ohio State University in 1988 and recently, he was inducted into the Ohio State University Dairy Science Hall of Service, an honor that recognizes his efforts in furthering the dairy industry and supporting students with opportunities to learn and grow. Supporting OSU students through hands-on learning internships and tours was something Paul deeply prided himself on. He truly believed investing in the next generation would lead to a successful future.
Namely, this award honors individuals who have made substantial and lasting contributions toward the improvement of the dairy industry of Ohio, elevated the stature of dairy farmers, or inspired students enrolled at the Ohio State University. Paul embodied all of those qualities and more.
However, his greatest accomplishment was being an exceptional husband to Shelly, and a wonderful father to Jake, and Luke and a grandfather. The love he had for his family was evident in everything he did, and it was clear they were the center of his world.
STgenetics® extends our sincere condolences to Paul’s family, friends, coworkers and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on through the countless people he mentored, the friendships he built and the lasting impact he made on the dairy industry he loved so deeply.