Ohio Cattlemen’s Foundation creates special scholarship fund in memory of John Grimes

John Grimes was a dedicated Angus breeder and influential industry leader. Photo courtesy of Ohio Cattlemen’s Association.

The Ohio Cattlemen’s Foundation has established a memorial fund honoring John Grimes of Hillsboro, who passed away in April 2025. Grimes was a dedicated Angus breeder and influential industry leader. Together with his family, he founded Maplecrest Farms, which grew into a nationally recognized seedstock operation. Throughout his distinguished career with Ohio State University Extension, he served as a highly respected educator, leaving a lasting impact on the cattle industry and all who knew him.

The fund was initiated when his favorite dessert, a cheesecake, was auctioned at the Cattlemen’s Gala in his memory. Donations from many Ohio Angus breeders and Gala attendees helped raise nearly $18,000 for the John Grimes Memorial Scholarship fund. This fund will be invested through the Foundation and used to provide annual beef industry youth scholarships in his name.

“John Grimes made a difference for the Beef Industry in Ohio and beyond. By investing in our youth through this scholarship, John’s leadership and legacy will continue to pay forward and inspire others,” said past OCF President, Aaron Arnett.

The Foundation’s goal is to continue fundraising for the John Grimes Memorial Scholarship and endow the funds using the annual earnings to fund scholarships well into the future. If you would like to contribute to the John Grimes Memorial Scholarship fund, you can do so here and specify the fund in the notes. For more information, contact the OCF office at 614-873-6736 or cattle@ohiocattle.org.