Farmers are the backbone of rural communities, and Tuesday's Harvest Heroes event celebrated those who go above and beyond. One of this year’s honorees was Chad Unrau of Unrau Family Farms, a second-generation farm turned hog operation near Winkler. Nominated by Harold Espinosa of Sixteen 13 Ministry, Chad says the recognition came as a surprise. "When I heard it was Harold, I knew it was Sixteen 13 Ministry which I think is very good for the community so, I was excited that he nominated me." In fact, Harold used to be Chad's youth pastor at Bethel Bergthaler Church, and the pair has stayed in touch ever since. "We give them pigs whenever they want pigs," he added. "They get sent to Banman Meats and then Harold distributes them in the community." Started in 1988 by his father, Chad is the second generation to take on the farm, which is a 24/7 job, 365 days a year. However, he says the family still finds time for themselves. "We have a few workers that help a lot. We have very good staff." 92-year-old Jim Suderman was another one of our Harvest Heroes. "I didn't know that I was a hero of any kind," he said with a chuckle. Still logging hours in the tractor or on the truck, Suderman had this advice for the younger generations of farmers coming up. "Stay on the farm. Don't go to town," he said, noting he still lives on the farm. "I've talked to different farmers, and they said after they quit, they went downhill in their lives." Having just wrapped up the season, Suderman says he hasn't thought about hanging up his hat but noted he may change his mind next year. With files from Jayme Giesbrecht