Attending the funeral of Bill Northey, who passed away suddenly at the age of 64 on Feb. 5, brought back memories of this remarkable individual. Despite the sorrow surrounding his departure, everyone was reminded of his positive impact. Following the news of Northey’s demise, accolades poured in from various quarters in Iowa and across the nation, recognizing his advocacy for farmers and agriculture at both state and federal levels.
One poignant recollection I have of Northey dates back to the funeral of Iowa Master Farmer Tom Wall in May 2016 in West Branch, Iowa. On that warm day, the rural church was brimming with attendees, with an overflow of people standing outside peering in through the open doors. As ushers began ferrying folding chairs on carts to those outside, Northey was the first to step up and assist in arranging the chairs for the standing guests.
This act epitomizes Northey’s legacy — a life dedicated to serving others. His ethos of always extending a helping hand will endure, serving as a lasting example for all of us.
Deep Roots in Agriculture and Family Values
Northey, a member of the Iowa Master Farmer Class of 2016, shared this honor with Wall in the same year. During my tenure as the editor of Wallaces Farmer, I had the privilege of interviewing Northey and his wife, Cindy, and crafting their Master Farmer profile for the magazine. We delved into Northey’s distinction as the fourth generation of his family to be bestowed with the Master Farmer title. I remarked, “This is a rare occurrence — four generations of a family receiving such recognition.”
Indeed, Northey represented the fourth generation of farmers hailing from Spirit Lake. His father, Wayne, a farmer in Dickinson County, was honored with the Master Farmer accolade in 1987. Following his father’s recent passing at the age of 90 in December, Northey delivered a poignant eulogy in his honor at the funeral.
However, Northey’s most significant role in life transcended his agricultural achievements; he was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Cindy; his mother, Margaret; daughters Jessica (Thomas) Meierotto, Emily (Eric) Brown, and Katie (Eric) Mattson; as well as six grandchildren.
Commitment to Service
After graduating with a degree in agricultural business from Iowa State University in 1981, Northey embarked on his farming journey. In 2004, he furthered his education by obtaining an MBA from Southwest Minnesota State University.
Throughout his career, Northey assumed various leadership positions, including president of the Iowa Corn Growers Association and the National Corn Growers Association. He also served in roles such as Farm Service Agency state committee member, Ag Ventures Alliance board member, Dickinson County Soil and Water Conservation District commissioner, Dickinson County Farm Bureau president, and co-founder and president of Innovative Growers LLC, a farmer-owned specialty grain supply network.
Northey was elected as Iowa’s secretary of agriculture in 2006 and subsequently reelected in 2010 and 2014. His influence extended to the national stage when he served as the president of the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture from 2011 to 2012. From 2018 to 2021, he held the position of undersecretary for farm production and conservation at the USDA. At the time of his passing, Northey was the CEO of the Agribusiness Association of Iowa.
Mentorship and Legacy
Beyond his professional endeavors, Northey generously shared his time and expertise as a volunteer. This year, he held the position of vice president of the Iowa Master Farmer Association.
Steve Berger, president of the Iowa Master Farmer Association, reflects, “The state of Iowa and the entire agricultural community have lost an exceptional leader in Bill. He was a mentor and friend to all — a good listener and hard worker. He championed soil conservation, water quality improvement, biofuels, and maintained a close connection with farmers, attentively addressing their concerns. Bill’s advocacy for Iowa resonated widely.”
Mike Naig, Northey’s successor as Iowa secretary of agriculture, acknowledges his profound impact, stating, “Bill left a lasting positive mark on our state. His influence transcended borders, resonating nationally and internationally on issues ranging from soil conservation and water quality to renewable energy, foreign animal disease preparedness, and trade. Bill’s astuteness and leadership were revered across various domains, making him a guiding figure for many in Iowa and beyond, including myself.”
Enduring Influence and Character
ISU President Wendy Wintersteen underscores Northey’s legacy not just for his accomplishments in Iowa but also for his exemplary conduct.
Wintersteen notes, “Bill’s actions were always driven by his dedication to Iowa agriculture, devoid of personal motives. Equally significant was his exceptional ability to connect with individuals, going above and beyond to assist others.”
Charlie Hurburgh, a seasoned ISU Extension agricultural engineer, describes Northey as “the epitome of a servant leader, adept at finding common ground even in the most contentious issues. His absence will be deeply felt.”
Dan Robison, dean of the ISU College of Agriculture, reflects on Northey’s impactful legacy, stating, “Bill’s positive influence touched countless lives and acres of land. While he achieved much, his work was far from over. It is now incumbent upon all of us to carry forward his vision.”
Northey’s unwavering commitment to conservation, his deep-rooted faith, and genuine concern for both the land and its people encapsulate the essence of who he was.
Honoring Northey’s Memory
In honor of Bill Northey’s memory, the family welcomes donations to [ppp1] at 310 East Broadway St., Eagle Grove, IA 50533.
Contributions can also be directed to the Bill Northey Memorial Fund within the College of Agriculture at Iowa State University. Donations can be made online at [ppp2] or sent via mail to ISU Foundation, 2505 University Blvd., P.O. Box 2230, Ames, IA 50010.