Posted on August 21, 2018 at 2:54 PM by Global Reach
In the early 1970’s, Kenneth Gilchrist asked Jerry Plowman to help with the Douds Livewires 4-H Club. Jerry helped not only as a club leader, but was also a member of the Van Buren County Fair Board for many years. 
Among the members receiving his guidance throughout the years were his three children: Rick, Susan and Michelle. Jerry and his wife, Martha, farmed for many years with his father. They were second and third generation farmers.
Many changes in the farming program have taken place over the years. Today Rick and Cale and their families farm the land. If Cale’s sons decide to continue the farm operation they will be seventh generation farmers. The main crops now are cattle, corn and hay.
A large finishing building was built a few years ago, for not only their calves, but other farmers calves as well. A large cow-calf herd, as well as a seed dealership round out the farm operation.
Jerry was an active member of the Van Buren County Farm Bureau for many years. Continuing in the tradition of being service minded, Jerry and Martha’s son, Rick and their grandson, Cale are both Farm Bureau members. Cale is also a member of the Van Buren County Fair Board and the Leando Cemetery Board.
Jerry was a member of the Van Buren County Cattlemen. One of their many projects was a yearly cookout at the fair, free to all 4-H members. Other organizations Jerry participated in were: Leando Cemetery Board, Van Buren Community School Foundation and a volunteer on the Douds Fire Department.
Jerry passed away in 2013. A livestock washing area was built on the Van Buren County fairgrounds in his memory. Who knows, maybe among the future users for their 4-H livestock projects will be his great grandchildren.
