Posted on August 23, 2021 at 4:56 PM by Emily Saveraid
Bertha, alongside her husband, Harlan, spent decades giving to the 4-H community of Sioux County. She believed deeply in the values of education, agriculture, and hard work that move the 4-H program forward, and she was committed to seeing the program continue to grow in Sioux County.
With the sudden and unexpected loss of Bertha in June of 2021, Sioux County 4-H lost one of its greatest cheerleaders and strongest advocates.
Bertha farmed alongside her husband, and raised two sons near Maurice, Iowa. She spent her career in public service, first as a teacher, then working for the US Postal Service until her retirement in 2011. Upon retiring, Bertha gave generously of her time and energy as a volunteer at the Sioux County Youth Fair, writing comments for static judging days and helping out wherever she could the rest of the week. Everyone who knew her, knew she loved the fair. She was happy to help behind-the-scenes to make sure everything was ready for that week in July. Bertha loved seeing 4-H members learn and grow at the fair each year.
Bertha had served on the Sioux County Extension Council since 2012, and was an integral part of that team, providing insight and wisdom, serving as the board treasurer, and much more. If there was a committee doing good work for the 4-H program, she was quick to jump on the opportunity to serve.
It has been said, “We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” Bertha gave so much to the 4-H program in Sioux County, and her absence is one that will be felt for years. Volunteers like Bertha keep the 4-H program alive in a society becoming increasingly busy and distracted. She recognized the value of investing in the lives of students and she knew those kids were gaining experiences that would serve them well throughout their lives. Sioux County is proud to honor Bertha Lammers and to remember the legacy she leaves behind.
