(Massena) The Cass County Cattlemen inducted Al Venteicher into the Hall of Fame on Saturday night.
In 1990, Venteicher purchased the sale barn in Massena, setting the stage for a legacy of dedication and growth in the cattle industry.
Over the decades, he left an indelible mark on the cattle industry and became a cornerstone of the community in Massena, Cass County, and the surrounding areas. His contributions went far beyond his business. He championed local initiatives, supported county fairs, and worked tirelessly to foster trust and collaboration among sellers and buyers.
:10 out: “Alright.” N-0203-1 Venteicher
A man of perseverance, he faces significant challenges head-on. After a serious back injury, doctors warned he might eventually lose his ability to walk. Undeterred, he proved them wrong, continuing to walk and work with determination that inspired those around him. His resilience was again tested during the mad cow scare in January 2004. While other sale barn owners hesitated and canceled sales for fear of a market crash, Venteicher assured his customers and the industry that he would move forward, reinforcing his reputation as a steadfast leader.
Over the past 35 years, Venteicher transformed his operation into a thriving hub for the cattle industry. He developed a pink tag vaccination program, expanded the barn’s capacity from 500-700 head to an impressive 1,200-1,500 head for special cattle sales, and maintained regular sales every week of the year. He added several buildings and a lot of space to accommodate growth and, along with his son Mark, introduced innovative tools like video, ensuring his operation stayed at the forefront of the industry.
His passion for nurturing the next generation of industry leaders led him to advocate for youth involvement through programs like the Rolling Hills Bank Heifer Project.
His unmatched knowledge of cattle and the industry has been a beacon for others, earning him the trust and respect of buyers and sellers alike. His reputation for honesty and reliability is a hallmark of his career, matched only by his unwavering support for his family, who have also played an integral role in the business.
Beyond the cattle business, he has supported local businesses, fundraisers, and county fairs. His dedication to the community is as profound as his impact on the cattle industry, making him a role model for those who follow in his footsteps.
After years of hard work and enduring the good and challenging times of the cattle business, he has recently stepped back, partially retiring from the industry he helped shape. Though he may no longer be at the forefront, his influence and contributions will continue to resonate within the industry and community he served so passionately.
:15 out: “On.” N-0203-2 Venteicher
The Cass County Cattlemen and Corn Growers joint meeting was held at the Cass County Community Center.
