The Ontario Agricultural College (OAC) community mourns the passing of Dr. Tom Funk, a respected educator and leader in agricultural marketing, who passed away on March 29, 2026, at the age of 82.
Funk dedicated more than 35 years to the University of Guelph, teaching agricultural marketing at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Known for his commitment to experiential learning, he helped bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application, shaping the careers of students across the agri-food sector.
As founding director of U of G’s MBA in Agriculture program, Funk played a key role in advancing business education in agri-food. His leadership helped grow the program’s reputation across Canada and laid the foundation for what would become the world’s first online MBA in agricultural studies. He also held adjunct faculty positions at his alma mater, Purdue University, and at the Ivey Business School at the Western University
“Tom Funk’s impact on agricultural business education is profound,” says John Cranfield, dean of OAC. “His dedication to students and innovative approach to teaching helped shape generations of leaders in the agri-food industry.”
Funk received multiple honours for his teaching and extension work, including the OAC Distinguished Teaching Award and the John Bell Award. Alongside his wife, Jane, he also contributed to industry training programs that supported professional development across the sector.
In recognition of their lifelong commitment to education, Tom and Jane Funk established the Tom & Jane Funk Agri-Marketing Bursary [1] to support students in the Bachelor of Commerce (Food and Agricultural Business) program.
Funk will be remembered as an inspiring educator, mentor, and dedicated member of the OAC community whose influence continues to shape the future of agricultural business.
As expressions of sympathy, donations can be made in memory of Tom to the Tom and Jane Agricultural Sales and Marketing Bursary at the University of Guelph. [2]
Read Dr. Funk’s full obituary here. https://www.guelphtoday.com/obituaries/funk-thomas-francis-12083113 [3]