Michael Kuechle is a dedicated Farm Bureau member and an active member of his community, but as a veteran, his service extends far beyond that. He and his wife, Shirley, raised six children, Kimberly, Loralyn, Holly, Robyn, Adam and Zach, on the farm after taking over the family operation near Kimball, Minnesota in 1970. Today, he farms alongside his son Adam at Kuechle Farms LLC, raising dairy cows and growing corn and alfalfa.

Kuechle has been a member of the Stearns County Farm Bureau since 1970, serving in many leadership roles over the decades, including his current position as vice president. He represented Stearns County as a voting delegate at the state Annual Meeting and served on the state resolutions committee, contributing to Farm Bureau policy at both the state and national levels.

As one of the twelve founding members of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), Kuechle has had a significant impact on the dairy industry. He served as a corporate director for DFA and its predecessor cooperatives for 39 years, including 24 years on the executive committee. He also served on the National Milk Producers Federation Board of Directors, helping guide policy on dairy pricing, trade, sustainability and animal welfare.

Locally, Kuechle served on the Stearns County Dairy Herd Improvement Association and the Central Minnesota Forage and Grassland Council, supporting fellow farmers with herd management and feed quality through data-driven practices.

An active member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church, he has served as a lector, Eucharistic minister, faith formation teacher and trustee for decades. He also volunteers as an election judge for Luxemburg Township and as an alumni mentor for the ROCORI FFA chapter, where he was recognized with the ROCORI FFA Honorary Farmer Degree.

Kuechle’s dedication to veterans continues through his role as post commander of Cold Spring American Legion Post 455. “This role is essential in preserving the legacy of military service and inspiring future generations to value duty and sacrifice,” he says. He is also a member of the Minnesota Veterans Memorial Rifle Squad, providing full military honors at funerals and participating in parades and memorial events throughout the year.

The Minnesota Farm Bureau is honored to recognize Kuechle this Veterans Day for his commitment to serving his nation, community, and agriculture.