Darrell Robertson

Darrell Robertson had a long and distinguished career with the Holstein Association. His work served to greatly advance the registered Holstein cow and what it could accomplish for dairy producers nationwide and in Missouri.

Darrell was born in 1934 to Luther and Norma Robertson in Douglas County, Mo. In 1947, the family moved to Lamar, Mo. After high school graduation, Darrell attended the University of Missouri­–Columbia and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in agriculture in 1956.

Darrell met his wife, Barbara, in Dallas, Texas and they married on June 8, 1957. After their wedding, Darrell began active duty with the U.S. Army. In 1959, they returned to Lamar to raise their family and start their business. In the 1960s and ’70s, Darrell and his family had a dairy farm, where they ran a dairy herd, with as many as 200 Holsteins, and processed milk for sale. They enjoyed many years in the dairy business and enjoyed fellowship with customers through the Dairy Store in Lamar.

In 1981, Darrell applied for and was accepted to be the program director of Holstein consultant. At various times, the states he covered included Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas. Darrell served for about 12 years. His job served as being a liaison between the grassroots dairy producer and the Holstein Association. His duties included helping producers register calves, making mating decisions and otherwise making the registered Holstein worth more. He was often seen at sales, shows and dairy events where he could improve public relations. He would also serve as ringman at shows, helping line up animals and keeping the show ring organized.

What Darrell brought to the table was his ability to find the new or small-time breeder, pat him or her on the shoulder and welcome them to the event. He made small breeders feel like they were important, and that built a great bonding between him and producers. He also wrote articles for the Missouri Holstein Journal, later called the Mid-States Holstein News, extolling the benefits of registering and breeding eligible animals.

Darrell’s career was so well-received by the Missouri Holstein Association he was posthumously given the Distinguished Service Award, an honor bestowed on only a few Missourians who have rendered long and sustained service. His wife received the award at the 2012 National Holstein Convention, held in Springfield, Mo.

Darrell was a great ambassador to the Holstein breed, and his presence and capable work helped many producers improve their herds and, consequently, their bottom line, while enjoying the benefits of owning good registered cattle.

Darrell and Barbara were married for 53 years and had two sons, Douglas and David, as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Darrell passed away in 2010 at the age of 76. In his many years of battling cancer, he encouraged and inspired others with his courage and faith.