Posted on August 31, 2026 at 1:21 PM by Anna Egan
Marty’s connection to 4-H began in fourth grade when he joined the Freedom Warriors 4-H Club alongside his older brother, David. From the beginning, 4-H was a family tradition. Marty’s father, Gerald, served as a club leader, while his mother, Kay, and sister, Kristi, were involved with the Freedom Flickers 4-H Club.
Growing up on the family farm, Marty exhibited livestock raised at home, first showing pigs and later cattle, learning responsibility through hard work. For more than 25 years, Marty has dedicated countless hours to supporting the Hamilton County Fair. As a longtime Hamilton County Fair Board member and Vice President, he has worked behind the scenes to keep the fairgrounds in top condition and help the fair thrive. Marty has served in leadership roles including goat, swine, and rabbit superintendent and as assistant sheep superintendent.
Known for his hard work, sarcastic humor, and willingness to help, Marty is often the first to arrive and last to leave. During fair week, he can usually be found walking the grounds with a coffee cup in hand, ready to solve a problem, encourage a young exhibitor, or share life lessons. If you know Marty, you know his ways of making people feel welcome whether it is a “mini hug” pinch on the back of the arm, hearing him say “GFGI,” or realizing he somehow already has pliers or nail clippers tucked into his pocket. Marty often says, “I do it for the kids,” and through his mentorship, generosity, humor, and service, he has made a lasting impact on Hamilton County 4-H and young people.
