‘Ottawa’ Ovens Berry Farm to Close After 38 Years
Ron and Maureen Ovens have grown their family, and berries, on a 50-acre farm just south of Osgoode for the last 38 years – and on Tuesday the farm’s last strawberries were picked.
The couple started the farm after Ron had the random idea to get into the berry business when the couple were in their 30s. Now, at 69 and 70, the work and stress led the couple to start winding down the business a couple of years ago.
The Ovens recently announced this season would be their last after first opening up shop in 1978 – a bittersweet moment for a couple who’ve been a local staple for nearly four decades.
“We’re really grateful to the community for all these years,” said Ron. “But, it was time to shut down.”
Loyal customers who visit the farm each year for their supply of summer berries were saddened by the news.
“Very seldom has there been a (recent) customer who comes in and doesn’t say, ‘Oh, I heard a rumour, tell me it’s not true!’