Posted on April 21, 2011 at 12:07 PM by Global Reach
Deborah Jene Lockie knew very early in life that she was going to be a true
4-Her. When she was old enough she joined the Jamestown Jolly Juniors 4-H club in Howard County. She actively did sewing, cooking and home improvement projects as well as exhibited dairy projects. Debbie was not only the Howard County Dairy Princess, but also toured the state as the Alternate State Dairy Princess. She graduated from Riceville High School in 1969 with Honors. Debbie went on to attend Iowa State University where she was selected as a Mortar Board Recipient, one of the highest awards given to women at ISU! During her summers at ISU she worked at the Howard County Extension Office. She graduated in 1973 with a degree in Home Economics. Debbie moved to Portland, Oregon to teach Home Economics for one year but returned to Iowa to marry fellow 4-Her Craig Van Arkel. They resided on their farm in Grinnell, IA together for the next 28 years until his death. Debbie and Craig have two daughters, Emily and Thea. Both were raised to be loyal, dedicated 4-Hers and hope to pass along the life long skills they have learned through 4-H to the next generation.
After moving back to Iowa, Debbie volunteered as a leader for the Malcom Worth and Mirth 4-H Club prior to taking on the position of Poweshiek Home Economist in 1976. She held this position until 1992, when she became Co-education Director of Poweshiek County and statewide Master Gardener Coordinator. In 2000, Debbie became full time Education Extension Director for Poweshiek County. During Debbie’s tenure Poweshiek Extension was a leading partner in the development of the Poweshiek Leadership Program and the seven county Ag Marketing Club.
Through Debbie’s leadership, the Poweshiek 4-H program remained a strong youth organization in the county, largely because of her respect for the potential in each person, youth or adult, she came in contact with. She has helped many 4-H youth and adult leaders to reach their full potential through her commitment to Iowa State University Extension Services.She has always been committed to Extension from a participant to eventually making Extension her life's work. Debbie truly makes the best better.
Debbie retired in October of 2008 and is currently living with her husband Robert Goold in Caramel, IN.
Categories: Poweshiek
