Posted on August 18, 2025 at 8:00 AM by Anna Egan
Connie’s love of 4-H and cattle began at a young age. As a young girl, she went along with her dad, Birchard (Birch), and older brother Rich to many 4-H meetings that her dad led. Tagging along with Rich also led to her love of showing cattle. The family went to shows at the Mitchell County fair, Cerro Gordo County Fair and the Iowa State Fair as well as the world Expo in Chicago.
When the family moved to Iowa Falls, Connie was old enough to join 4-H. She attended many 4-H meetings in the Ellis church. She was part of the “girls club,” where she participated in her required static exhibits, and the “boys club,” so she could show cattle- mostly purebred shorthorns, Herefords, and cross breeds. She was joined by her younger sister, Susan, in the family’s love of showing cattle. They showed at the Hardin County Fair, National Cattle Congress and the Iowa State Fair. Rich and Susay said she was the best feed bunk filler!
Connie’s passion for 4-H and cattle continued and was passed down to her children. Two of her children, Robin and Ryan, were involved in 4-H, with Ryan also continuing her love of cattle long after his 4-H days were done.
Connie has been a dedicated and active member of the Hardin County Fair for many years. She has served on the Fair Board since November 2010, including three years as Treasurer. When talking to her fellow board members, they often describe her as someone who is always present and ready to help. Connie attends every volunteer workday, consistently offering her time and energy to ensure things run smoothly. Along with her husband, Jody, she has devoted countless hours to the fair. Connie is particularly well known for always working the beef weigh-in during the winter and helping with beef check-in at the fair. In the words of Connie, “There is no better sport than showing cattle.”
