SENATOR STEVE NASS

2026 HONORARY MARSHAL

A lifelong resident of the Whitewater area, Senator Nass was born in Whitewater and graduated from Whitewater High School in 1970. He continued his education at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, earning a bachelor's degree in Political Science and a master's degree in School Business Management.

Senator Nass began his public service in 1977, when he was elected to the Whitewater City Council, later serving as Council President. He also served for ten years on the UW-Whitewater Board of Visitors.

Alongside his public service, Senator Nass devoted 33 years to the Wisconsin Air National Guard. During his distinguished military career, he served in operations including Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Northern Watch, Joint Endeavor, and Enduring Freedom. He retired in 2005 at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant.

Senator Nass has also been a longtime member of the Whitewater Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion and previously served for several decades as Commander of the Whitewater American Legion Post.

His service to the people of Wisconsin continued when he was elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly in 1990, where he served through 2014. He was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate in 2014 and continues to serve through the completion of his current term in January 2027, when he will retire from the Wisconsin Senate after decades of public service.

Senator Nass has also been a familiar and valued presence at the Walworth County Fair. Over the years, he has regularly attended and assisted with our Opening Ceremonies, helping us recognize deserving Fair honorees by presenting legislative citations. His continued support of the Walworth County Fair and the people and traditions it represents has been greatly appreciated.

Throughout his many years of military and public service, Senator Nass has remained deeply rooted in the Whitewater community and in the region he calls home.

As we celebrate the 177th Walworth County Fair, it is especially fitting that we recognize Senator Nass as he approaches the conclusion of his distinguished legislative career. His lifetime of service to his country, the State of Wisconsin, our local communities, and his longstanding support of the Walworth County Fair reflect the values of service and commitment that our Fair is proud to honor.

LARRY AND SUE LARKIN

2026 HONORARY MARSHALS

Larry and Sue Larkin's connection to the Walworth County Fair is a true family tradition spanning generations. Larry's Fair memories date back to the early 1950s, when, as a teenager, he enjoyed everything from midway games and grandstand activities to the food and fellowship that made Fair week special. He became a Life Member early on and, over the years, helped extend that tradition to his wife, children and grandchildren.

As their family grew, the Larkins became increasingly involved in the Fair through 4-H and exhibiting. Their children showed rabbits, dogs, sheep, calves and pigs, along with crafts, photography and other projects. Larry served as a Rocket Leader and developed a lasting appreciation for the animal barns, antique tractors, commercial exhibits and the many people who make the Fair possible.

Sue's involvement grew as she spent time at the Fair with their children and discovered that exhibiting was not just for the younger generation. She began entering antiques, flowers, baked goods and photographs, and soon encouraged friends to join her. Her enthusiasm earned her recognition as an Outstanding Exhibitor, and both Sue and Larry have had the pleasure of receiving Best of Show honors in the Antique Barn.

Today, the Walworth County Fair remains a treasured tradition for Larry and Sue and for the generations of their family who have followed them. Their children participated through 4-H, their granddaughter continued the tradition, and their son John still exhibits today. From livestock and 4-H to antiques, flowers, food, tractors and countless Fair memories, the Larkins have truly embraced nearly every corner of the Fair.

Larry perhaps says it best when he reflects that the Fair has made their lives richer through the experiences, friendships, education and fellowship it has provided. For their many decades of participation, enthusiasm and dedication - and for helping pass the traditions of the Walworth County Fair from one generation to the next.

LYNELLE GRAMM

2026 OUTSTANDING SENIOR CITIZEN

Lynelle Gramm of Lake Geneva has spent decades quietly making a difference in the lives of others through education, volunteerism, and community service.

For many years, Lynelle served the Lake Geneva Schools, working as a pupil services assistant and later as an administrative assistant for curriculum and instruction and substitute teacher coordinator. Her commitment to education continued through service on the Lake Geneva Schools Board of Education.

Lynelle is also a founding member of Side by Side, an organization that provides rent and utility assistance to individuals and families in need. Over the years, she has held numerous leadership roles within the organization, including president, vice president, and secretary, and she continues to serve as a board member.

Her dedication to the Lake Geneva Public Library is equally remarkable. Lynelle currently serves as Vice President of the Library Board of Trustees and has been deeply involved with the Friends of the Lake Geneva Public Library. She has helped guide the library through major renovations, supported its programs and operations, and participated in the StoryCorps initiative, helping preserve the stories of local residents for future generations.

Each year during tax season, Lynelle also volunteers with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, providing free tax preparation to individuals who otherwise may not be able to afford the service.

Those who know Lynelle describe her as thoughtful, intelligent, compassionate, and willing to ask the important questions that make organizations stronger. Whether helping a family in need, supporting the library, serving local schools, or volunteering her time and talents, Lynelle has consistently focused on one question: How can this help people?

For her lifetime of dedicated service and the lasting difference she has made throughout the Lake Geneva community, the Walworth County Fair is proud to recognize Lynelle Gramm as a 2026 Outstanding Senior Citizen of Walworth County.

LEWIS “LEWIE” LINDOLOFF

2026 OUTSTANDING SENIOR CITIZEN

Lewis “Lewie” Lindloff of Delavan has been named a 2026 Walworth County Fair Outstanding Senior Citizen in recognition of a lifetime of service to his country, his community and his fellow veterans.

A United States Navy veteran, Lindloff served during the Vietnam War before returning home and beginning decades of service to the Delavan area. He went on to serve for 39 years with the Delavan Fire Department, including service as a Captain, helping protect the lives and property of those in his community.

His community involvement has extended far beyond the fire department. Lindloff coached the Delavan Lakers youth baseball team, served as an Elder at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, supported local community events and volunteered for 10 years at the Walworth County Fair in the Antique Barn.

Lindloff has also devoted many years to serving and supporting fellow veterans. A longtime member and Past Commander of American Legion Post 95, he has held leadership positions with the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Military Order of the Cootie. His service has included organizing community events and fundraisers, visiting veterans in hospitals and veterans’ homes, and supporting programs benefiting veterans and their families.

PASTOR JERALD “JERRY” WENDT

2026 OUTSTANDING SENIOR CITIZEN

Pastor Jerald “Jerry” Wendt of Whitewater has devoted a lifetime to faith, service, and strengthening the communities and people around him.

Pastor Wendt’s connection to Whitewater began in 1963, when he served as Associate Pastor of First English Lutheran Church. After serving congregations in Cedarburg and Columbus, he returned to First English Lutheran Church in 1984 as Senior Pastor, where he served until his retirement in 2003. His dedication to ministry continued well beyond retirement, as he remained an active and caring presence in the church and throughout the Whitewater community.

His service extends far beyond the pulpit. Pastor Wendt has served as a longtime member and leader of the Rotary Club and on the Police & Fire Commission, ELCA Board of Pension, Fairhaven Senior Services Board, Whitewater Community Foundation Board, and Columbus School Board. Throughout the years, he has quietly supported community activities, fundraisers, senior citizens, and neighbors in need.

Pastor Wendt and his late wife, Nancy, also opened their hearts and home to refugees seeking safety and a new beginning. In 1972, they sponsored a family of 11 fleeing Uganda, and years later helped three families from Kosovo establish new lives in the community.

For decades, Pastor Wendt also dedicated himself to young people, leading wilderness canoe trips in Canada and teaching generations of youth lessons in leadership, responsibility, teamwork, perseverance, and respect for nature.

Known for his compassion, humility, generosity, and genuine concern for others, Pastor Wendt has spent his life quietly putting service into action. His influence can be seen in the countless individuals, families, organizations, and communities he has touched throughout the years.

The Walworth County Fair is proud to recognize Pastor Jerald “Jerry” Wendt as a 2026 Outstanding Senior Citizen and to honor a lifetime dedicated to faith, community, and service to others.

JAMES “JIM” BOARDMAN

2026 OUTSANDING SENIOR CITIZEN

James “Jim” Boardman of Elkhorn has devoted much of his life to serving his community, leaving a lasting impact through decades of volunteerism, civic leadership, historic preservation, and service to veterans.

Jim’s commitment to public service spans more than 50 years. He served as a volunteer EMT and Captain with the Elkhorn Ambulance Service from 1971 to 1986, helping provide 24-hour emergency coverage to the community. His service also included time as an Elkhorn alderman, as well as involvement with the City of Elkhorn Police & Fire Commission, Planning & Zoning Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Board of Review, and numerous local appeals and zoning boards.

Preserving Walworth County’s history has also been an important part of Jim’s service. A longtime volunteer and leader with the Walworth County Historical Society, Jim served as its president from 2014 to 2026. During his tenure, he helped guide the organization’s museums, educational programs and preservation efforts, including the development of the Walworth County History Center. He has served as a museum docent, shared local history with area schoolchildren, cared for historic properties, and volunteered at the Walworth County Fair to support the Historical Society.

Jim is also an active member and Finance Officer of American Legion Post 45 in Elkhorn. His service includes participating in military honors at veterans’ funerals, presenting the colors at community events, placing flags on veterans’ graves for Memorial Day, participating in parades and helping with Legion fundraisers. He was also instrumental in bringing the military tank memorial to Veteran’s Park in Elkhorn.

Those who know Jim describe a man who is always willing to lend a hand—whether responding to an emergency, preserving a piece of local history, honoring a veteran, helping an organization with repairs, or simply sharing his knowledge and experience with others. One of his letters of recommendation fittingly describes Jim as having volunteered “most of his life.”

For his extraordinary record of service and lifelong commitment to his community, the Walworth County Fair is proud to recognize James “Jim” Boardman of Elkhorn as a 2026 Outstanding Senior Citizen of Walworth County.

McCLELLAN FARMS, INC.

2026 WALWORTH COUNTY FAIR CENTURY FARM

In 2026, McClellan Farms, Inc. proudly celebrates 100 years of family farming in the Delavan-Darien community.

The McClellan family’s story on this land began in 1926, when Harvey P. “Grandpa Mac” McClellan purchased the 128-acre farm at auction after moving with his parents from the Chicago area to Delavan. Harvey wanted to become a farmer, and with a small herd of cows, the family began what would become a lasting agricultural legacy.

The next generation continued that tradition when Harvey’s son, John “Papa” McClellan, took over the farm and grew the dairy herd to approximately 100 Holstein cows. John’s son, Tom McClellan, later expanded the operation even further, eventually milking approximately 500 cows three times a day.

For 95 years, from 1926 through 2021, dairy farming was at the heart of McClellan Farms. The farm was also a place where generations of children learned about agriculture through the “Swiss Croft” summer camp, school field trips, library outings, and visits from community organizations.

Although the family made the difficult decision to sell the dairy herd in 2021, McClellan Farms continues to grow and evolve. Today, the family farms approximately 3,000 acres, primarily raising corn and soybeans. They have also welcomed the community to the farm through Mac’s Market, featuring a sunflower field and pumpkin patch, as well as weddings, live music, workshops, and other special events.

Through a century of change, one thing has remained constant: the McClellan family’s commitment to agriculture, family, and their community.

At the 177th Walworth County Fair, we are proud to recognize McClellan Farms, Inc. as a 2026 Century Farm and celebrate the McClellan family for 100 years of continuous family farming and agricultural tradition in Walworth County.

ELKHORN AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & TOURISM CENTER

2026 FRIENDS OF THE FAIR

The Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Center has been proudly serving the Elkhorn, Wisconsin community since 1974, working to strengthen local businesses, promote tourism, and enhance the quality of life throughout the Elkhorn area. Guided by its mission to advance the economic and civic interests of its partners and community, the Chamber serves as a catalyst for business growth, community collaboration, and regional development.

The Chamber provides valuable networking opportunities, educational programs, marketing initiatives, advocacy, and business resources designed to help organizations of every size succeed. Through partnerships with local government, schools, nonprofits, and businesses, the Chamber helps create an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive and established businesses can continue to grow.

Beyond supporting business, the Elkhorn Chamber is dedicated to showcasing everything that makes the community special. As the area's official Tourism Center, it welcomes visitors from across the region and promotes Elkhorn as a destination to live, work, shop, and explore. The Chamber organizes and supports many of the community's signature events, including the Spring Food Truck Festival, Saturdays on the Square, Elkhorn Ribfest, Elkhorn Oktoberfest, the Christmas Card Town Parade, golf outings, networking events, and numerous seasonal celebrations that bring thousands of residents and visitors together each year.

Located in the heart of Walworth County, the Elkhorn Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Center is more than a business organization, it is a community leader committed to building meaningful connections, encouraging economic vitality, and celebrating the unique spirit of Elkhorn. Through its motto, "Building Business. Building Community.", the Chamber continues to serve as a trusted resource and passionate advocate for the businesses, residents, and visitors who make Elkhorn a vibrant place to call home.

MARILYN LEEDLE

2026 OUTSTANDING NON-LIVESTOCK EXHIBITOR

Marilyn Nagel Leedle grew up on her family’s farm in Sharon Township. A member of the Sharon 4-H Club, Marilyn exhibited horse & pony, foods, gardening, clothing, vet science, art and knitting as a Junior Class exhibitor at the Walworth County Fair.

Currently residing in rural Racine County, Marilyn is a retired State of Wisconsin official court reporter and enjoys gardening and baking.Her greatest loves are her and her husband Kevan’s four grandchildren.

Marilyn is a Master Gardener and serves as the Racine County Fair Flowers & Vegetables Superintendent, is an active volunteer and supporter, as well as an Open Class exhibitor.

Marilyn’s heart remains here at the Walworth County Fair, where she is an outstanding, award-winning Open Class exhibitor in vegetables, flowers, antiques, and baking.She is known for her Champion Hydrangea flowers, cloud-like angel food cake, and treasured family heirlooms.Marilyn also volunteers as a judging assistant in the Draft Horse and Flowers & Plants Departments and helps with the Pies in the Park contest and auction by participating, clerking, and offering support.

Marilyn shares that her most treasured Walworth County Fair experiences are the friendships she has built over the years, including the annual melon competition with Pat Sharpe, flower judging with Diane Bauman, and clerking with Marilyn Kaddatz at the Pies in the Park pie auction. The secret to exhibitor success is not in the ribbons earned, but the grand friendships gained.

JOHN ERICKSON

2026 OUTSTANDING LIVESTOCK EXHIBITOR

John Erickson’s lifelong dedication to agriculture and the Walworth County Fair began at an early age. He started showing dairy cattle in 1957 at just 10 years old and soon expanded to beef cattle and swine, beginning a nearly 70-year connection to the Fair and the livestock community.

John continued exhibiting swine at county and state fairs, including as an open class exhibitor at the Walworth County Fair. In 1966, at age 19, he received the American Star Farmer Award, the highest honor in the National FFA Organization. He remains a proud member of the Delavan-Darien FFA Alumni.

Agriculture is also a strong Erickson family tradition. John’s family farm has been in the family since 1857 and was passed down from his grandparents. Today, John and his wife, Tina, reside there. They raised four children—Bill, Mandy, Heather, and Megan—who were active in 4-H and the Delavan-Darien FFA and exhibited beef, sheep, and swine at the Walworth County Fair. John has also encouraged his nieces and nephews to become involved in showing livestock.

Today, John and his family continue exhibiting open class sheep under the farm name Country Oaks Dorsets. John and Tina are proud grandparents of eight grandchildren, several of whom are carrying on the family’s livestock tradition. John especially enjoys taking his grandchildren to the barn to visit their baby lambs and donkey, Joey, and supporting them as they enjoy the same opportunities his children once did.

John’s commitment to youth and agriculture extends well beyond the show ring. He has served on the Walworth County Fair Sheep Committee and as a 4-H sheep and swine project leader, sharing his knowledge with junior exhibitors. He has assisted with junior show weigh-ins and tag-ins, participated in livestock project meetings, conducted sheep-shearing demonstrations for student field trips at the Fairgrounds, and took part in the 2016 Farm Technology Days.

For nearly seven decades, the Walworth County Fair has been a cornerstone of the Erickson family tradition—a place for showing livestock, reconnecting with lifelong friends, and spending time together as a family.