Jim was a 10-year member in Adams Co., CO in dairy, turkeys, sheep, pig, forestry, foods and health. He was a Junior Leader and started a 4-H dog obedience club for suburban members. He was a member and president of the County 4-H Council. In 1951 Jim was a National 4-H Congress National Winner in Health. Professionally, Jim served as 4-H Agent, Weld Co., CO; Agriculture Agent for CB&Q Railroad, Omaha, NE; 4-H Agent, Larimer Co., CO; Area 4-H Agent, Philadelphia, PA; Asst. Co. Extension Agent, Madison Co., IN; 4-H Agent, Allen Co., IN; County Extension Director, Hennepin Co. (Minneapolis), MN; and Assistant Director and Acting Interim Director, MN 4-H Foundation.
Jim served as advisor for the 30-plus MN 4-H Ambassadors for 7 years. Ambassador alumni include the Speaker of the House of MN Representatives, an assistant Minneapolis City Attorney, and ordained minister, several outstanding farmers, County 4-H Agents, a past Idaho State Representative, business owners and other very successful citizens. In addition to 4-H, Jim was a captain in the U.S. Army and has held two 4-year terms on Wayzata (MN) School Board, including 2 years as chair. Additional honors include finalist for “Outstanding Young Man” in Ft. Wayne, IN; President, Ft. Wayne Kiwanis Club; “Good Neighbor” Award, Minneapolis MN (1993); and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board meritorious gardener award (2002).
