It is with great sadness that the New England Brown Swiss Association is sharing the passing of our long time president Robert "Bob" Gould. His devotion to the Brown Swiss breed was inspiring. He will be truly missed. 
Robert "Bob" Gould Obituary

BREED FACTS

Brown Swiss cattle can be grey, dark brown, tan or even almost white in color. Their hooves, muzzle and switch are usually black. They are often noted for their big floppy ears and docile temperament.

Perhaps the oldest of all dairy breeds, Brown Swiss originated in the valleys and mountain slopes of Switzerland around 4000 B.C., according to some historians.

Today, the beautiful Brown Cattle can still be found across the globe, including in the United States, where the largest concentration is in Wisconsin, Iowa and Ohio. The world population of Brown Swiss is reported to be about 7 million, which ranks either first or second in world-wide population of dairy cattle. The Brown Swiss you see grazing across the United States countryside descend from initial importations of 25 bulls and 140 females from Switzerland.

In memory of Bob Gould

Bob served as New England Brown Swiss Association President for many years.   Bob always strongly promoted New England and National Brown Swiss Youth Programs.   He was Chairman of both the 2012 and 2021 National Convention Sales, at Shelburne Farm, VT and Northampton, MA.   He was largely responsible for establishing the Northeast National Show at the Easten States Exposition Fall Show.   

A lifelong dairy farmer, for the past 30 years Bob was Farm Manager at Allard Dairy Farm, Hadley, MA.   Allards transitioned from being a 350 cow Holstein herd to a predominately 150 cow Brown Swiss operation, with outstanding milk production and type averages.   Along with owner Wayne Goulet and Bob's son, Sean, they developed a very effective feeding, breeding and management program to accomplish this.   Bob, Wayne and Sean always emphasized herd production.   Prior to his employment at Allard Dairy, Bob worked at farms in western Massachusetts and Vermont for about 15 years. 

Allard Dairy and R-Choice Swiss exhibited at local, Regional and National shows for decades with numerous Grand and Junior Champions in addition to Premier Breeder and Exhibitor Awards.   They purchased and consigned top-quality Brown Swiss at Regional and National Sales.

Bob and his family have always strongly supported youth sports and community activities.   He was always a big fan of Hopkins High School Basketball and attended games whenever possible.   

Bob will be remembered by his friends and family for his warm outgoing personality and his integrity.   His word and handshake were considered to be better than any written contract. 

 
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