Dean Kleckner, who served a decade as Iowa Farm Bureau Federation (IFBF) president and 14 years as president of the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), passed away last week in Minnesota. He was 82.

In nearly 60 years of service to U.S. agriculture, Kleckner worked tirelessly to increase farm income and was a champion of breaking down barriers and opening foreign markets for American farmers. He also worked to support the adoption and acceptance of agricultural technology in the United States and around the globe to help feed the world and protect the environment.

A Floyd County corn, soybean and hog farmer, Kleckner rose quickly into leadership positions in county, state and national Farm Bureau organizations.
Kleckner’s tenacious memory, passion for agricultural policy and leadership skills made him a strong and effective advocate for farmers who was recognized around the globe, said Craig Hill, IFBF president. “Few people could endure the...