Husband. Father. Grandfather. Professor. Judge. Farmer. Friend.

While Dr. Gene Isler of Delaware, Ohio, wore many hats, it is undeniable that his legacy in the show pig world was one of a pioneer in the boar stud industry.

Having created and developed one of the first AI boar studs focused on show pigs, Isler also served as a faculty member at The Ohio State University where he led the OSU Swine Boar Testing Station for three decades.

“He was an innovator in the industry,” says ShowPig.com President, CEO and Owner Kevin Wendt. “Gene’s legacy to the show pig industry will be the cutting edge marketing and technology they used to advance selling to show pig breeders of all sizes, and the knowledge and education of the industry through his role as an Extension educator.”

Isler’s commitment to the industry extended beyond our nation’s borders. He imported some of the first English large white breeding stock in the late 1970s and his boar stud reached international customers.

Not only was he well-regarded among family, friends and colleagues, but competitors also took note of his character. Terry Shaffer, owner of Shaffer’s Goldrush in Albany, Ind., recalled the many times he and Isler would see one another at hog sales and events throughout the years.

“As competitors, he always extended his hand and was polite in greeting,” says Shaffer. “His professionalism and the way he carried himself will be remembered, as well as his ability to take financial risks with boars that no one had ever taken before.”

Shaffer noted that Isler did business the right way, all the time, and was known for treating people fair. A truly competitive friendship, Isler could always put aside that competitiveness to extend a cordial greeting.

“When we did see each other, we knew we would likely be bidding against each other, but could always keep it separate,” Shaffer said. “I’ll always remember, wherever we happened to be, [Isler’s] big long arm coming out for a firm handshake as he smiled and asked, ‘How you been?’”

As many continue to mourn the loss of Isler, his legacy undoubtedly lives on in the pig business. By: Mollie Lastovica