Posted on August 31, 2026 at 1:16 PM by Anna Egan
Bill and Diane Brownel have a long and vibrant history in Fayette County 4-H. Bill was a member of the Harlan Livestock 4-H Club. During his time in 4-H, Bill showed dairy, swine, and sheep. He learned discipline, proper meeting procedures, and how to positively interact with others. Bill learned firsthand that when an unfortunate white ribbon is achieved, it teaches you to work hard and improve your project for next year. Diane Kuhens Brownell was a member of the Smithfield Jolly Juniors. She exhibited Food and Nutrition and Home Improvement projects. Diane was also a leader for the Harlan NRG 4-H club.
Bill and Diane have continued to support 4-H in many ways. They participate in the omelet breakfast and are generous with monetary donations for fundraisers. They can always be seen volunteering during fair week by helping at the swine show and cleaning up the grounds. Bill and Diane have had parents, siblings, cousins, children, nieces and nephews, and now grandchildren participating in 4-H and the Fayette County Fair. Supporting them all has been by far their favorite activity.
In the spring of 2024, Bill and Diane planted two trees in memory of their grandson Cooper Ingels, who was a member of the Harlan Fremont Club. This was yet another way they wanted to honor not only Cooper, but also to help maintain the beauty of our fairgrounds. Bill and Diane both shared sentiments to encourage youth to participate in 4-H. At times it will be a lot of work, but you will create some of the best memories of your life.
