In 1949, President Harry Trum­an started his second term, a new Christmas song called "Rudolph, the Red Nosed Reindeer" sold millions of copies, and Melvin Haden joined the Calhoun County Farm Bureau.

Through the years, Haden became a leader in the organization, serving on the board of directors from 1980 to 1984, followed by a term as county president in 1984-1985.

"I liked how Farm Bureau offers a way for people to get involved and shape the future of agriculture," said Haden, 87, a former voting...