(Clarion, IA)- A parade grand marshal was originally elected to keep order in a parade. Over time, the role evolved into an honorary title awarded to distinguished individuals. Grand marshals are often people or couples who others can look up to.
According to the Wright County Fair, no one fits this title better than Rick and Sue Hammen, the 2024 Fair Parade Grand Marshals. Knowing Rick, with a twinkle in his eye, and Sue's calm order-keeping, I’d have to agree.
Rick, raised in Clarion, began farming in 1974 with his Dad. In 1987, Rick became co-owner of “Blue Mound” farm in the late 80s, where he still raises livestock and farms row crops. Sue (Dieger) was raised in Belmond and met Rick in the fall of 1980. After three years of courtship, the pair married in July of 1983. They were soon blessed with two daughters, Kelly and Katie. Soon after, the Hammen Family motto “It’s all for the kids,” was coined.
Rick and Sue have been involved in the fair since the late 1980s, with many livestock exhibits originating from their farm. The couple are known for their behind-the-scenes work. Rick’s first ‘big project’, in 1988, was helping with fundraising efforts to build the 4-H food stand. The 4-H stand is popular for the food, which Rick has helped prepare for years. The air conditioning isn’t bad either.
The couple has also been heavily involved in the Bottle Bucket Calf program for the last 34 years. It was important to Sue, who has worked at Clarion’s First Citizens Bank for 45 years, that each child gets a reasonable return on investment after their work. Because of this belief, she helped and Mike Marshall led the 4-H/FFA Buying Group. The group, which disbanded in 2020, would reach out to individuals and organizations for donations which were used to bid on the livestock once the fair was over.
Although the couple is almost synonymous with The Wright County Fair, neither actually participated in 4-H as children. The couple's volunteer work earned them the title of “Honorary 4-H’ers” from the Fair Board. Rick was honored in 2004 and Sue in 2009. The couple also earned a spot at the Iowa 4-H Hall of Fame in 2019 for their effort.
Rick is often eager to reminisce about his time at the fair with his children. Last year, Rick shared with me that helping his daughters, Kelly and Katie, show at the local fair was the best time for him. At one point in time, the girls were showing one of each type of animal! I had mentioned how exhausted I would be if I were in his shoes, but Rick stated, “Ah, it’s for the kids.” Anyone who knows Rick is aware of the twinkle in his eyes when he speaks of his children. Kelly and Katie were active in 4H for 8 years, often co-led in a 4-H group by Sue.
The family’s favorite fair tradition was a picnic of fried chicken after their kids competed in the beef show Sue shared with me. Now the Hammens look forward to supporting their 5 grandchildren at the Wright County Fair.
While the couple has gathered various titles and achievements during their long marriage, their favorite titles are Dad and Mom, and now Grandpa and Grandma. Staying true to their family motto, “It’s all for the kids.”
The Wright County Fair Parade starts at 6:00 P.M. on Tuesday, July 9th led by the couple. Rick and Sue will be recognized at 7:30 P.M on the James R. Johnson Stage at the fairgrounds.
