Posted on August 21, 2023 at 2:17 PM by Emily Saveraid
Irene was active in 4-H throughout her childhood; she attended the state leadership camp. Kelly was also an active 4-H member; his love for the environment was created as a 4-H member as well as his time at Iowa State University.
Irene met James Kelly Tobin of Burlington Junction, Missouri (Nodaway County) through 4-H and they were married on June 6, 1955 at St. Joseph's Church in Parnell.
After farming for several years in the Burlington Junction area, they moved to a rented farm outside New Market, Iowa in 1963 and in 1968 purchased a nearby farm. They have four sons who were very involved with 4-H as well as Iowa State University.
Irene received a bachelor degree in home economics from Northwest Missouri State College in 1954. Kelly received his degree from Iowa State University.
The Tobin family has been active in 4-H, county extension and state extension. They have dedicated their lives to improving and giving youth opportunities to continue their education by awarding the annual Tobin Family 4-H Scholarship (through the Iowa 4-H Foundation).
Kelly and Irene are an inspiration to thier family, friends, and students for their dedication, hard work, and caring nature. They raised a family in a way that prepared them well for the living of a full life-mentally, spiritually, physically, and emotionally.
