Distinguished Service Award
George E. Bishop, Marquette
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1954
For his leadership in the economic development of the Upper peninsula of Michigan, his untiring efforts in behalf of agriculture, and his keen interest in boys' and girls' 4-H Club activities.
Clark L. Brody, Lansing
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1954
For more than a half-century of leadership as a farmer, a county agricultural agent, a member and chairman of the State Board of Agriculture, and the executive secretary and vice-president of the Michigan Farm Bureau.
John B. Strange, Grand Ledge
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1954
For his unselfish service as a leader of farm organizations, as commissioner of agriculture and a legislator in the State of Michigan, and as an outstanding farmer for more than a half-century.
Waldo E. Philips, Decatur
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1955
For his farm leadership -- for his help in organizing the Michigan Elevator Exchange and Michigan Farm Bureau -- for his years of service to the Grange -- for his total of 151 years of service on boards of directors or in offices of trust.
Milon Grinnell, East Lansing
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1955
For his vision and leadership as editor of the Michigan Farmer -- for his stmulation of young people and their programs -- for his encouragement of rural health, safety and soil conservation -- for his great support of agricultural research and education.
Ernest W. Ruehs, Caledonia
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1955
For his leadership in farm organization, school and Church affairs -- for perfecting and adopting new farm management practices -- for continually seeking better ways to market farm products -- for his active interest in youth throughout more than a half century.
H. Alfred Sturm, Pigeon
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1956
For helping to promote the use of better seed through 36 years as a member and officer of the Michigan Crop Improvement Association, as a director of the Michigan Foundation Seed Growers' Association and as chairman of the Huron-Tuscola Seed Growers' Assiation -- for his help to the Cooperative Extension Service as a State Advisory Board member -- for his work in school adminstration -- for his leadership in church activities.
Robert J. Sutton, Dafter
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1956
For his leadership in mny farm and civic groups to aid agriculture, especially in the Upper Peninsula -- for his 10 years of service as a 4-H Club leader and help in founding a Youth Center -- for him mmany years as a board member of the State Grange -- for his 24 years of service on the local school board and 18 years as a leader in township government - for his 35 years as a director of the county cooperative association.
Charles S. Force, Kalamazoo
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1956
For his leadership in the feed and grain industry and help to students wishing to enter that field -- for his invaluable aid to the Cooperative Extension Service and his service to Michigan rural youth -- for his leadership as a member of many civic groups and his contribution toward better understanding among farm and city people -- for his service to education as a member of the local school board.
Erich L. Kerlikowske, Coloma
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1957
For helping promote the fruit industry, particularly peaches, through his outstanding leadership as a member and officer of the National peach Council and Michigan Horticulture Society -- for his interest in soil-building farming programs -- for a progressiveness in seeking out and putting into use new and improved agricultural practices -- for his service in developing Michigan's marketing program -- for his leadership in local school, church and government activities.
Harry E. Rohlfs, Akron
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1957
For seeking to improve the marketing of Michigan agricultural products as president of Michigan Cooperative Bean Market Association, and as a member of the National Dry Bean Advisory Committee -- for his skillful use of improved farm practices in building a highly successful farming operation -- for helping lay plans for boosting the agricultural and industrial development of county and state - for his contribution to community through church and government activities.
Stanley, M. Powell, Ionia
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1957
For representing Michigan agriculture as legislative counsel of the Michigan Farm Bureau, official of the Michigan State Grange, member of the Michigan Fair Commission, contributing editor for Michigan Farmer and member of many state and national boards, commissions and committees -- for his leadership in the community as officer of his church and member of the school board -- for his outstanding record as a breeder of Milking Shorthorn cattle and Shropshire sheep.
Luther C. Klager, Manchester
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1958
For his service in representing the poultry industry on state and national groups -- for his long-time efforts in promoting the production of high quality eggs and poultry meat -- for his work in promoting the consumption of poultry -- for his contributions to the local community through church and civic activities.
Marshall Wells, Birmingham
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1958
For his outstanding service in helping disseminate agricultural information to Michigan farmers as farm editor of Radio Station WJR, Detroit -- for his efforts in interpreting agriculture and farm policy to urgan people -- for his contribution to 4H Club work through a program of recognition for local Club leaders.
Malcolm G. Dickerson, Bloomingdale
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1958
For his many contributions to the Michigan seed industry as the first producer of hybrid seed corn in the state -- for promoting the production, processing and distribution of high quality seed as a member of the Michigan Crop Improvement Association for 27 years -- for his leadership in local farm and church organizations.
Andrew G. Lohman, Hamilton
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1959
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the state and national poultry industry, as a poultryman, a feed manufacturer, an egg grader, a researcher in egg quality, a poultry meat processor, and a poultry meat and egg merchandiser -- for his keen business management and leadership ability in farm cooperatives and in community organizations.
Howard F. Simmons, Pontiac
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1959
For his long service to Michigan's agriculture and dairy industry -- in his 34 years with the Michigan Milk Producers Association, 16 years of which he was secretary-manager -- for him many contributions to the national dairy industry as a foremost authority on milk marketing -- for his interest in local community activities, particularly those in the church.
Herbert M. Van Aken, Eaton Rapids
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1959
For his leadership in state and national soil conservation work -- for making his own farm an outstanding example of good land use -- for his contributions to Michigan agriculture as a chairman of the Michigan Agricultural conference -- for his encouragement of family cooperation in farming -- for his many activities in local shcool, church and civic affairs.
Lee D. Ferden, Chessining
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1960
For his vigorous support of agricultural research and long-time cooperation with Michigan State University in the promotion of crops and soils research, for his farming ability as shown by consistent production of high quality grain crops, and for his interest in youth development as a 4-H Club leader, and as an inspirational speaker to youth groups on modern agriculture.
Merritt D. Hill, Birmingham
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1960
For his leadership in the agricultural equipment manufacturing field as a vice-president of Ford Motor Company, for his interest in youth development by active participation in the affairs of many youth groups, including 4-H and FFA, for his strong support of education and research, particularly in agriculture, and for his influential role in representing agriculture in a number of national business organizations.
Arthur J. Ingold, Blissfield
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1960
For his leadership to Michigan's livestock industry as president of the Michigan Livestock Exchange, and as an officer in state and national livestock groups, for his efforts in establishing the Lenawee County Cooperative Extension Service, for his interest in 4-H Clubs by helping build an effective livestock project in the county and state, and for his interest in strengthening farm credit sources.
Glenn Lake, North Branch
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1961
For his farm leadership, particularly in dairying -- for his service to the dairy industry in Michigan, the Midwest and the Nation as a holder of high offices in numerous organizations and associations -- for his devotion to agriculture and its promotion among youth in 4-H Club activities.
Thomas F. Schweigert, Petoskey
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1961
For his far reaching contributions to forest development and conservation in Michigan and the Nation -- for pioneering as a consulting forester and promoting an increased awareness of the potential value of timber products and the resulting boost to the state's economy.
Veril Baldwin, Stockbridge
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1961
For his leadership in the state and nation in farm organizations -- for his confidence in agriculture in building a large scale vegetable and livestock production enterprise -- for his devotion and support to Michigan State University in assisting with its agricultural extension and research programs.
Bernie F. Beach, Adrian
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1962
For his lifetime, dedicated service to the Michigan dairy industry -- secretary-treasurer, Michigan Milk Producers Association; manager, Michigan Producers Dairy Company, Adrian; director, National Dairy Council and Dry milk Institute; president, Dairy Society International -- friend, civic leader, and world dairy "ambassador."
Fred Reisener, Rogers City
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1962
[Top left] For recognition of more than two centuries of farm experience -- as pioneers in the production of quality seed potatoes and the development of new varieties -- and a long-standing record of cooperation with the Cooperative Extension Service and Agricultural Experiment Station of Michigan State University.
David Reisener, Rogers City
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1962
[Top right] For recognition of more than two centuries of farm experience -- as pioneers in the production of quality seed potatoes and the development of new varieties -- and a long-standing record of cooperation with the Cooperative Extension Service and Agricultural Experiment Station of Michigan State University.
Ervin Hopp, Rogers City
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1962
[Bottom] For recognition of more than two centuries of farm experience -- as pioneers in the production of quality seed potatoes and the development of new varieties -- and a long-standing record of cooperation with the Cooperative Extension Service and Agricultural Experiment Station of Michigan State University.
Walter W. Wightman, Fennville
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1962
For his service to Michigan agriculture in the Michigan Farm Bureau -- as a 40-year member, former director and president of the state's largest farm organization. For his broad agricultural interest in policy, public affairs, conservation and a third of a century of active service to his church.
Elton R. Smith, Caledonia
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1963
To an outstanding dairyman and rural leader dedicated to the betterment of agriculture and the Michigan farm community. An active member in many organizations and president of Michigan Farm Bureau Services, he has given vigorous support to education, youth activities, livestock improvement, conservation and responsible citizenship.
Ernest C. Foreman, Lowell
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1963
A pioneer breeder and hatchery man of international reputation whose development of the Foreman Strain Leghorns made a significant contribution to the poultry industry. A former head of the Michigan State University poultry Department, he has devoted a third of a century of service to the Lowell community and civic affairs of the state.
Forrest A. Smith, Lowell
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1963
Secretary-manager of the Michigan Agricultural Conference since 1949, he has spearheaded many efforts contributing to the rural progress of the state. Teacher, administrator, agri-business leader and ardent promoter of a vital industry, his is a strong and persistent voice in Michigan agriculture.
Edward J. Wright, Saginaw
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1964
A successful dairyman and leader in the dairy industry, he has made an outstanding contribution to the state's largest agricultural business. Member of the Michigan Agricultural Commission, an officer and active leader in state and county and community organizations, he provides a dynamic force for the agricultural progress of Michigan.
Arthur E. Sackett, Edmore
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1964
Charter president of the Chief Wabasis Potato Growers' cooperative, his efforts in both production and marketing have contributed much to the state's potato industry. An ardent supporter of agricultural research and education, he is a pioneer in the adoption of new and improved farm practices and active in community, state and national organizations.
E. J. Clabuesch, Pigeon
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1964
A rural banker with an outstanding record of service to farmers and Michigan agriculture, he has demonstrated state and national leadership in the farm credit field. President of the Michigan 4-H Club Foundation and active in many community affairs, he is dedicated to continued development and betterment of rural Michigan.
Charles O. Zollar, Benton Harbor
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1965
Fruit grower, nurseryman, business and agricultural leader, his efforts have contributed much to the state's horticultural industry. Legislator, manufacturer and civic leader, his record of public service has made an indelible mark on Michigan agriculture and continuing state progress.
Ernest Girbach, Saline
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1965
Livestock breeder, dairyman, leader in county, state and national farm organizations; he has made invaluable contributions to the state's animal industries. With a dynamic willingness to serve, his interests in youth activities and public affairs have earned him a respected voice on the rural michigan scene.
Jean Worth, Escanaba
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1965
Staunch supporter for Michigan progress, his enthusiasm and news columns wage a perennial campaign for rural-urban understanding. Editor, tree farmer, conservationist and civic leader, he interprets today's events for the future growth and development of the Water-Winter Wonderland.
Allen Lester, Ithaca
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1966
Outstanding farmer, rural and community leader, his successful management serves as a model for Michigan farmers. State legislator, bank director and former board chairman of the St. Paul Bank for Cooperatives, his leadership and public service have made a significant contribution to Michigan progress.
Blaque Knirk, Quincy
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1966
A strong voice for Michigan agriculture, his staunch support has resulted in major developments for the state's livestock industry. Successful farm manager; member of the Michigan Agricultural Commission; delegate to the Constitutional Convention; farm, business and civic leader; he has given freely of his talents for a progressive, rural Michigan.
J. Stanley Sherman, East Lansing
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1966
Thirty-five years as an agribusiness leader, he was instrumental in the coordination of the state's grain marketing services. Officer and director of state and national market organizations, his leadership and untiring efforts have done much to advance Michigan's agricultural industry.
O. E. Herkner, Traverse City
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1967
Progressive leader in Michigan's fruit industry, he has worked diligently to initiate changes for the efficient production and marketing of the state's cherry crop. Early to adopt new methods and practices, from research results, he maintains an active role in state and national grower and marketing organizations.
R. W. Petersen, Lakeview
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1967
Conservationist, successful farmer and businessman, he has made a significant contribution to present and future generations. Soil conservation leader, agribusiness manager, certified seed grower and dairyman, he has given freely of his talents toward rural progress on both the state and national scene.
Frank Heim, Jackson
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1967
For nearly two decades he has been an informed spokesman for Michigan dairy farmers. Successful dairyman, former president of the Michigan Animal Breeders' Cooperative; and member of the state Extension Service Advisory council, he has contributed much to the forward progress of Michigan agriculture.
Duane Baldwin, Stockbridge
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1968
Outstanding farmer and rural leader, application of agricultural research has made his farms a model of crop production. Active in commodity and marketing groups, president of the Michigan Agricultural conference, his is a regarded voice for rural progress.
Garfield G. Wagner, Flint
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1968
Providing dynamic leadership to the dairy industry, he has demonstrated skill, success and responsibility in business management, organization, and civic affairs. His influence, interest, and personal impact have made an indelible mark in Michigan agribusiness.
Stanley H. Woods, Deerfield
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1968
Certified seed grower, cattleman and farm leader, he is a champion of excellence. President of the Michigan Crop Improvement Association, successful farmer, responsible citizen; his vigorous support is a respected ally for the betterment of Michigan agriculture.
Perc. R. Schepers, Jackson
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1969
A recognized leader, Mr. Schepers has consistently exhibited a deep personal interest in agriculture and rural families in this State. He has authorized grants for agricultural research and extension and has provided exhibits and personnel for farm clinics. An active member of the Board of Trustees of the Michigan 4-H Club Foundation, he has won both State and country-level awards for his efforts.
Felix Witt, Jasper
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1969
Long a producer of superior beef cattle, Mr. Witt is also a foundation seed grower who has played a prominent role in the initial increase of several important small grain and soybean varieties. His reputation as a leading farmer, businessman and seeds man is of the highest caliber, and he has given strong support in time and money to youth and extension activities in his community.
Harry Burns, Millington
Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award - Farmers' Week, 1969
An outstanding poultry producer, Mr. Burns has 40,000 laying hens and 18,000 pullets on his 400-acre farm. He also operates his own feed mill, has huge storage facilities, feed mixers, a grinder and egg processing station. Known as "Mr. Poultry man," he is an all-around good citizen and has long been a recognized civic leader and supporter of charitable organizations.