Terry Bremner joined a distinguished list of Deltans Friday night when he was named this year's Citizen of the Year at the annual Delta Chamber of Commerce Hats Off to Excellence gala.

Bremner, who was born and raised in Delta, said he was surprised but happy when he heard his name called.

"I think that Delta is a fantastic community because so many people work hard without recognition to make the community better," he said.

Bremner founded Bremner Foods Ltd. in 2001 and opened Wellbrook Winery in East Delta three years later.

His love of heritage restoration is evident. The centerpiece of the winery on the 55-acre heritage farm is the Old Grainery Store, which Bremner restored. The exteriors of the old farmhouse and barn have also been restored, and vintage farm equipment can be found around the property.

Bremner's passion for heritage restoration was sparked many years before he established the winery. He was part of the original group of residents that came together to save and restore Kirkland House.

"I think it's going to be a highlight for Delta in the future," he said of the property, which now includes the Harris Barn.

"I think we need to preserve our heritage for future generations."

Bremner regularly uses his heritage winery in East Delta to play host to a variety of community and charitable events, including Summerfest.

Irene Forcier and Mike Guichon were also finalists for Citizen of the Year.

jkerr@delta-optimist.com