Oetkens inducted into Iowa 4H Hall of Fame

MT. PLEASANT — Two well-known names in the Henry County community were among the most recent inductees into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame this summer: Lisa and David Oetken.

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Inductees into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame represent the many people in Iowa who have contributed countless hours to the 4-H program. They work tirelessly to see that Iowa’s youth have a great learning experience in a safe and fun environment. These adults have modeled volunteerism, community service, integrity, and leadership to Iowa’s youth. Their legacy is the young people they have mentored who will in turn support the continuation of a 4-H program that builds Iowa’s leaders.

“Inductees into the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame represent the many people in Iowa who have contributed countless hours to the 4-H program,” the Iowa 4-H Foundation explains. “They work tirelessly to see that Iowa’s youth have a great learning experience in a safe and fun environment. These adults have modeled volunteerism, community service, integrity, and leadership to Iowa’s youth. Their legacy is the young people they have mentored who will in turn support the continuation of a 4-H program that builds Iowa’s leaders.”

David and Lisa Oetken’s roots with 4-H, agriculture, and community run deep, as does their influence of the lives of many young 4-H participants. David is a member of the 4-H swine committee and president of the Henry County Pork Producers. In his role with the Henry County Pork Producers, he furthers agricultural education and exploration for students through their scholarship programs, and donations to local programs.

Additionally, David does not shy away from taking young people under his wing, whether it is at the Pork Producers food tent, at the swine shows, or in 4-H clubs.

“With a passion for youth development and agricultural education, Dave has shaped the experiences of countless young members, guiding them through livestock care and showmanship,” the Iowa 4-H Foundation describes David.

In the Henry County community, David is known for his knowledge of swine production, hands-on approach, and ability to inspire young members. The recognition of his patience and ability to inspire young 4-H participants to grow and reach their full potential certainly added to the decision to include him in the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame.

Alongside David, Lisa supports 4-H, the Henry County Fair, and the Henry County Community with a willingness to step up and offer help when ever it is needed. As the Director of Main Street Mt. Pleasant, serving the community in numerous ways comes naturally to Lisa.

Together, they raised their three children, Alex Oetken, Christian Oetken and Olivia (Oetken) Blackford within the 4-H community creating a family legacy of service and community spirit. As a 4-H family, the Oetkens consistently spent their summers at the county and state fairs showing swine and participating as 4-H students or volunteers, but that did not stop when they graduated high school.

Even now, Christian serves alongside his father David on the 4-H swine committee. Olivia also showcases her agriculture roots in her own boutique which features many children’s clothes with cute fluffy cows showcased.

Lisa and David’s efforts have positively impacted 4-H members and help cultivate a lasting love for agriculture and community involvement not only in their children, but many other young people Southeast Iowa. With such hearts for service, that legacy is bound to continue to grow.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com