LOCATED IN
ELMIRA, ONTARIO
We are located in the community of Elmira, Ontario just 15 km north of Waterloo. Elmira is known for its Maple Syrup Festival (since 1965) and having the largest population of Old Order Mennonites in Canada.
It’s no mistake that we went with Rural Roots. Roger is from a rural community, just like Elmira – a historical hub. He grew up on a farm and wanted to honour those roots. The people of Elmira and the surrounding area can appreciate the respect we have for the source of our quality ingredients.
Photo: Post card of Elmira from 1906 showing multiple panoramic views from the Region of Waterloo Archives.
WHO WE ARE
At Rural Roots, our Passion is not beer! There, we said it. We are about family, community, roots, and creating an inviting and comfortable space for everyone. Our passion (small “p”), however, is beer!
We appreciate quality because if something is worth doing, it is worth doing well. We are interested in crafting beer that encourages people to slow down and savour the nuances of something special. We sincerely hope you enjoy our beer.
ROGER LICHTI
Roger has been brewing beer in his garage for many years. He finds great joy in working with a recipe and tweaking it until it is just right. Friends, family and even some strangers invited in for tasting notes have all loved his beer and encouraged him to sell it.
“We started researching what needed to be done to share this craft with more people. One thing has led to another – and here we are! It hasn’t been an easy process, but it’s an enriching one that we are so excited to share with you. ”
SUE FROM
Together with her husbad, Roger Lichti, Sue is a founding business partner for the Rural Roots Brewing Company.
Sue is also a successful Sales Representative for RE/MAX Solid Gold Realty (II) Ltd Brokerage in the Waterloo Region. Sue is homegrown to the Woolwich area. She is looking forward to continuing in real estate and seeing this new venture touch the community of Elmira and those who visit.
“I love my real estate career so much. My clients can still expect the same level of dedication they’ve always had. I’m excited about applying my skills to this new adventure as well.”
GLENN
Glenn is a long time friend of Roger’s who helps out wherever needed.
“I value community. Having lived and worked internationally, and having been very involved in community life in Waterloo Region, people are important to me. Now as I slip into my retirement years, what better way to be around and serve people than here at Rural Roots”.
KRYSTA
Krysta is Sue’s sister. She had joined our team in a supporting roll and quickly became the asset we needed. Now as manager, she organizes much of our day to day here at Rural Roots.
TAYLOR
Taylor is back! After a short hiatus, she’s back serving delicious craft beer.
TARA
Tara is Elmira born and raised, and after spending the last 11 years in the big city of Toronto she has returned to her roots. Tara loves community more than anything, and when she’s not pouring beers, she can be found meditating and practising yoga.
MADI
I’m Madi, an overly sarcastic Elmira local. I’m currently working on my undergrad and how to properly pour a beer. I look forward to meeting new people and continuing to grow the Rural Roots community.
BREE
After graduating from Pre-Service Firefighting at Humber, Bree moved home to her “rural roots” to pursue her career. When she’s not playing or coaching ball, she enjoys spending time with her fiancee and their two dachshunds. Bree is very excited to learn the art of brewery from one of the best, all while meeting the many wonderful patrons of Rural Roots!