Winneshiek County is honored to present this year’s Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame to recipient, Dick Horne. Dick spent 33 years with extension. He began his Winneshiek County career in 1970 as the 4-H Youth Leader and later became the Extension Director from 1977-2000. His devotion to the 4-H program continues today as he can be found supporting the 4-H Gala or bringing out the best of kids, on the microphone, at the county fair Pee Wee Dairy show for the past 30 years! 
Dick Horne grew up in Canton, Ohio. He was the older of two boys. His family lived above a grocery store, and the landlord had a brother that was a dairy farmer. Dick worked at that dairy farm for several summers. He went on to attend Ohio State and pursue his love for Dairy Science.
Dick worked for Marshalltown and Harden County before accepting the 4-H Youth position serving Fayette, Allamakee, Howard and Winneshiek Counties in Northeast Iowa. He was highly active in 4-H clubs encouraging youth to explore and try new ideas. His love for serving the community evolved into its next phase as the Winneshiek County Extension Director.
In the 1980’s Dick could be found visiting family farms and working with farmers during difficult transitional years. In 1985 he was honored to receive the Winneshiek County Distinguished Service Award.
Anyone attending the Winneshiek County Fair knows that the Pee Wee Dairy Show is a highlight! Young children, beginning at age 3, come to the show ring dressed as the hero of their choice with a matching calf by their side. Each child parades to the center of the show ring for their chance to speak on the microphone with interviewer, Dick Horne who has been the MC of this event for the past 30 years. The grandstand is packed with proud parents and grandparents watching this Pee Wee Show. For many of these children, this positive experience is the start of their 4-H career.
Dick enjoys a good game of golf and reading anything about history. His family, including 17 grandchildren & 2 great grandchildren, and health are of main importance to him. He is known for his great sense of humor!
Congratulations Dick! What a way to celebrate your 81st Birthday!
