Posted on August 31, 2026 at 2:06 PM by Anna Egan
4-H member Pete Lyon has been actively involved in Tama County 4-H since the age of 10. He began as a member of the Toledo Wide Awakes Club, showing dairy cattle and sheep.
During his time in 4-H, Pete served in every officer position within his club and was on County Council. He then gave back to the program as a leader for Toledo Wide Awakes, mentoring many members and providing extra support to youth with limited family involvement. He made each feel valued and important. He also spent countless hours helping members prepare their animals and get them ready for shows, demonstrating patience, leadership, and a commitment to helping others.
Pete is proud of his accomplishments at the Iowa State Fair, where he won Grand Champion Shorthorn three consecutive years. He also competed in the 4-H dairy judging contest at the State Fair, advancing to and placing at the national competition.
Throughout the years, Pete has remained deeply involved in 4-H as both a participant and mentor. Today, Pete continues supporting the next generation of 4-H members by providing cattle for his grandchildren to show in Tama County. All four of Pete’s children participated in 4-H, and today he has nine grandchildren actively involved in the program.
Pete has been married to his wife, Mary, for 49 years. Together, they have four children, 22 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and another on the way. Pete lives near Toledo, where he farms crops and raises cattle. He credits 4-H with teaching him the importance of commitment, perseverance, and always doing your best.
