Too often, happy accidents go unnoticed in the origin story of a successful company. Proximity to a large urban labor supply, serendipitous introduction to a wealthy investor with shared passion for farmland, grandpa's decision to settle a mile from a future interstate that leads to construction of multiple ethanol plants within a half hour. In the event our modest enterprise achieves that distinction someday, KFS, our electrical and grain equipment partner, will be sure to get an honorable mention.

Full disclosure, I can take minor credit for the company's current location and ownership. In 2009 Norm Klapperich decided to retire and sell Klapperich Farm Systems. I wanted to keep the business in the community. KFS was based in Meyer. Norm and Marcia founded KFS in 1977 after acquiring Koenigs Steel Products, the grain equipment business Dad started on our home farm, 1/2 mile west of Norms. There were no other equipment and electrical service companies in the area with grain and livestock expertise. We came to rely on Norm's timely and competent emergency service, especially during harvest. To the extent our operation benefited by KFS's location and capabilities, its absence would be a loss.

My first step was to recruit a partner. Someone with personality, Norm's signature gift, ambition and integrity. My brother in law, Keith Heimer, had the resume. I just had to persuade him to leave a secure management position at Winnebago. It took a several months of negotiation and consideration but ultimately Keith, Lisa, Mark and I reached agreement to acquire and relocate the company. Within a few years of taking over the business Mark and I sold them our majority stake and stepped aside as Keith wanted and needed full credit (or blame) for the consequences of his leadership.

Fifteen years later, Keith and Lisa have sold the business to son Sam and master electrician Josh Scheer, both smart, energetic and a joy to work with. Company headquarters is on the north outskirts of McIntire, just a few minutes from the Pinicon shop, elevator and feed mill. They have a staff of 18 with a broad range of electrical and equipment repair knowledge. Their fleet of equipment and vehicles continues to increase as they bring more capacity in house to meet the needs of their growing customer base.

When we start a new facility project, we are confident we will get the best price, quality installation, and long term service from KFS. It is a rare week that KFS is not called upon for a critical time sensitive repair. We like infrastructure as it is essential to our ability to stay profitable. KFS has enabled us to cost effectively grow and maintain our physical plant. If I had to list our top five most beneficial vendors, KFS is on it.

To Keith, Sam, Josh, and the rest of the KFS Team, you are more than the breeze at our backs, You have assisted the realization of our vision and increased our rate of progress. Thanks for the consistently reliable and enthusiastic support. You are greatly appreciated!

Jim

Josh, Sam, Keith

Tailwinds