Jerry Sukovaty and his wife, Sandy.
In Polk County, Mo., “Living to Serve” isn’t just an attribute some people obtain; it’s a way of life for all folks. One individual who truly embodies this motto is generational farmer Jerry Sukovaty.
Since the ripe young age of 12, Sukovaty dedicated his time and effort to life on the farm. During high school, he was an active Fairplay FFA member. His time in the FFA taught him the value of hard work and service to his community. After graduating from high school, Sukovaty wasted no time returning home to the farm to continue the family legacy.
Sukovaty speaks at a Polk County Farm Bureau meeting.
Service to Community
Throughout his years spent in agriculture, Sukovaty planted roots not only in the field, but also within his community — truly bringing the motto of “Living to Serve” to life. Sukovaty found this path of service through the Missouri Farm Bureau by serving as his county president for 13 years.
He spent these years taking high school agriculture students to the Missouri State Capitol for Farm Bureau Legislative Days. During those days, students had the opportunity to meet with legislators from across the state, listen to guest speakers and network with fellow FFA members. Sukovaty saw it as a way to give back and serve his community.
Alongside serving with the Missouri Farm Bureau, he was an active member of the Missouri Young Farmers Association. Sukovaty was also a part of the group that chartered the Bolivar FFA Chapter. During that time, he had the opportunity to connect and share his knowledge and experiences with other producers.
Life on the Farm
But the story doesn’t end there. Any individual who knows what life on the farm is like knows the challenges it can pose. As Sukovaty navigated those challenges, he found ways to create a farm worth passing down to the next generation. Without farmers who share this mindset, the future of small-town agriculture will slowly fade from communities. Sukovaty understands that and makes it the reason he built a truly incredible operation and prepared land that can be farmed for generations to come.
A life of service comes with much sacrifice, but it is that willingness to give that keeps communities thriving. Each person who crosses his path is left with a reminder of what it means to live a life of service. Although Sukovaty hung up his hat on his leadership roles, the FFA motto of “Living to Serve” has not yet found its place on the rack.
