Kim Kerr did his first farm visit 42 years ago, his last on May 29.
That’s more than a million miles Kerr racked up on gravel, dirt and highways. That’s more than a thousand farm visits where Kerr became more than a Michigan Farm Bureau regional manager — more than an employee wearing a black MFB zip-up and folded-bill hat.
That’s more than 5,000 Calhoun, Jackson, Branch, Hillsdale and Lenawee County Farm Bureau meetings about farmers’ water, Right to Farm, and road issues Kerr relayed back to home office staff in Lansing.
That’s all done now. Complete. Finito.
Always quick with a football metaphor, Kerr's finished that last drive down the field and hung up his old cleats — and the keys to his blue Equinox.
Those in the farming community remember his work, like Keith Preston, owner of Preston Dairy near Quincy — the first and last farm Kerr ever visited.
“I thought he had a lot to learn,” Preston joked about their first-time meeting. “But then he was willing and showed the desire. I always admired that about Kim.”
If you were a farmer in Kerr's territory and needed something taken care of, you put Kerr on it “and it most likely got done,” Preston said. “That’s a good thing.
"And he’s been a good friend.”
Kerr joined MFB as a regional representative (now called regional managers) in March 1983. From day one, farmers and colleagues say he brought a passion for protecting the state’s agricultural industry, including helping farmers through the farm crisis of the 1980's, the evolution of Promotion & Education from the Women’s program, and the ongoing challenges in the Lake Erie watershed. In 2005, Kerr was promoted to advanced regional representative, then senior regional manager in 2022.
Throughout his tenure, Kerr attended thousands of board, committee and planning meetings, helping counties implement impactful activities and events. This includes coordinating educational programs for animal control officers, guiding the candidate evaluation process, supporting membership drives, and organizing local official meetings.
According to Deb Schmucker, MFB's director of field operations, Kerr also served as a mentor to countless farmers and Farm Bureau staff.
“He’s been a steady and inspiring force — devoting himself wholeheartedly to serving farmers, developing strong leaders, mentoring countless staff members, and guiding this organization with clarity, humility, and unwavering purpose,” Schmucker said. “His legacy is one built on integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to our farmer members.”
His legacy also left a stronger organization, a network of empowered people, and a community of colleagues who are better individuals, Schmucker added.
“His leadership has provided not just direction but hope and vision. His mentorship has shaped careers and lives,” she said. “And his friendship has left an imprint on hearts across the organization. He’s led by example, and he’s lifted those around him with wisdom and good humor.”
But 42 years?
Why stay with one company that long?
“There’s an old saying: Do you adopt a dog or does a dog adopt you?” Kerr responded. “I think this organization, this family — Farm Bureau staff and members — helped adopt me and helped me through life. Being able to serve them in return has been a great opportunity. We have something here nobody else has: We are probably the strongest Farm Bureau organization in the nation. The counties are part of us; we’re part of the counties.”
In retirement, Kerr plans to spend more time with wife Celia, their children Noah, Caleb and Maya, and his grandchildren.
At that final farm visit in late May, amid 55-degree Fahrenheit sprinkles, Kerr walked into a circle of Prestons.
No introduction was needed. No high-fives or hugs were expected. Kerr was there, ready to listen, even though he didn’t have to work the next day.
It’s why he will always be a "stalwart fixture of Branch County agriculture,” said Brian Preston, son of Keith. “He will be missed.”
“He’s been here a long time,” Keith said. “He’s learned a lot. He’s done a lot.
“He’s a good man.”
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