Posted on August 22, 2024 at 5:00 PM by Emily Saveraid
Larry Opfer was an 8-year Hamilton Hot Shots 4-H club member in Decatur County. He held each officer position at least once and was active in the county and area 4-H councils. He participated in educational presentations at the county and state fair levels and was a livestock judging team member. He also conducted a county-wide swine fitting and showmanship workshop to encourage and assist younger 4-H members. Leadership and delegate roles took him to the Iowa 4-H Conference, The American Royal Livestock Show, the National 4-H Conference, and the Citizenship Trip to Washington, D.C. His leadership and dedication to 4-H was rewarded with a 4-H achievement scholarship, which allowed him to attend ISU to study agricultural business and finance.
Upon graduation from college, Larry’s banking career started. In 1992, Larry moved his family to Jasper County to continue his banking career. As his family grew, his children were active in 4-H and his wife became a 4-H leader. Larry found himself building obstacles for animal projects and helping, teaching, assisting, and encouraging countless youth as they tackled many different project areas. Larry was constantly in the barns and equine experience meetings, encouraging proper riding techniques and safety.
Larry recently facilitated funding for a large brick picture backdrop at the Jasper County fairgrounds. He has served as a Jasper County Fair Foundation member, horse superintendent, and business partner and friend of the Brice Leonard Supreme Showmanship Competition. When the livestock auction comes around each year – Larry tries to recognize and encourage each 4-H member connected to the bank in one way or another.
