Dr. Hemstreet has practiced veterinary medicine in Burke County for nearly fifty years.  He is a graduate of the School of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University.  He has been married to Joy for 55 years and they have four children and seven grandchildren.  He currently has the privilege of serving on the Board of Education for Burke County and has been actively involved in his faith community.  He is also actively involved in prison ministry and the BUCM soup kitchen.  Several years ago, he was honored to be a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow.  

Dr. Hemstreet still practices veterinary medicine at Morganton Animal Clinic.  He enjoys hiking, canoeing, and fishing with his family and spending time in God’s beautiful creation.   

“Dr. Hemstreet is truly an example of the kind of citizen we should all strive to be.  His continued service to Morganton and Burke County has impacted many lives over the years.  He continues to be an inspiration to us all and I am honored to recognize him as the 2019 Distinguished Person of the Year,” said Morganton Rotary Club President, Dalton Walters.

The celebration to honor Dr. Hemstreet will be held at a later date.  

In 1948, the late J.D. Fitz, an outstanding Rotarian, and past Club President conceived the idea which evolved into an annual testimonial and banquet.  Adding to this year’s award will be a $1,000 donation made by Rotary Club of Morganton to a charity selected by Dr. Hemstreet in his honor.