Ag Hall Of Fame Inductees Honored At Farmers Share Breakfast
(From the Chamber of Commerce Agri-Business Committee)
The Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce & the Hancock County Agriculture Hall of Fame is proud to announce the induction of four outstanding individuals at the annual Farmers Share Breakfast.
This year, we honor Michael Biery, S. David DeVore, Paul William Lauck, Sr., and John E. Wolfe for their remarkable contributions to agriculture and the community.
The breakfast was held on June 12, 2025 at the Old Millstream Centre with 350 people in attendance.
Michael Biery
Mike Biery’s agricultural journey began in his youth, working alongside his father, Dean Biery, in their Purebred Duroc pig operation. This early experience ignited a lifelong passion for agriculture, leading Mike to establish a 1200-acre grain farm with his family, focusing on corn, beans, and wheat while continuing to raise Purebred Durocs for 4-H projects and market. Beyond farming, Mike played a pivotal role in the community, serving on the boards of Blanchard Valley Farmers Co-Op and Hancock County Farm Bureau. He co-founded the Cory-Rawson FFA alumni association, championing Junior Fair Livestock Auctions and volunteering for FFA programs. Mike’s dedication extended regionally as an elected trustee of the Northwest Ohio Antique Machinery Association, where he curated displays and promoted agricultural history. Recognized with an Honorary FFA Degree in 2015, Mike Biery’s legacy as a servant leader, mentor, and advocate for agriculture leaves an enduring impact on Hancock County and beyond. Biery was honored posthumously.
David DeVore
Born in 1943, Dave DeVore has been a dedicated resident of Hancock County for 81 years, devoting his life to farming since the age of 8. He began farming independently in 1961, growing his operation to roughly 1,000 acres and 100 head of sheep, and continues to farm today alongside his son-in-law. A lifelong member of the Hancock County Farm Bureau—where he served as President—Dave has also been an active member of the Hancock County Ag Council since 1988 and the Agri-Business Committee since 1989. He played a key role in establishing the Hancock County Ag Hall of Fame in 2006. Beyond the county, Dave has represented Ohio Farm Bureau at national conferences and met with legislators in Washington, D.C. to advocate for agriculture. He earned his State Farmer Degree in 1960 and remains deeply involved in both agricultural and faith communities, serving as a trustee and food pantry donor at Good Shepherd Church in Benton Ridge. Dave’s lifelong commitment to agriculture and helping others has made a lasting impact across Hancock County and beyond.
Paul William Lauck, Sr.
Born in 1917, Paul William Lauck, Sr. devoted his entire 100 years as a Hancock County resident to farming and community service. A lifelong grain and vegetable farmer, he cultivated corn, soybeans, wheat, tomatoes for Campbell’s, and pickles—farming 720 acres alongside his brother, Forest. Paul was a local pioneer in agricultural innovation, among the first in the county to use drainage tile and anhydrous ammonia, while also implementing conservation practices like grass waterways and crop rotation. After a farm accident in 1945 resulted in the loss of his right hand, Paul’s determination never wavered, he adapted and continued farming, always advocating for farm safety. His service extended beyond the fields, serving as a supervisor for the Hancock Soil and Water Conservation District from 1955 to 1961, earning two conservation awards and being named Outstanding Farmer of the Year in 1961. A devoted member of Houcktown United Methodist Church, Paul served as Sunday School Superintendent, treasurer, and teacher. In retirement, he shared his love of woodworking through handcrafted gifts, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, innovation, and service. Lauck was honored posthumously.
John E. Wolfe
John E. Wolfe is a lifelong resident of Hancock County and a third-generation farmer, carrying on the legacy of Wolfe’s Produce which was founded over 80 years ago by his grandparents, Howard and Rose Wolfe, and later run by his father, Richard Wolfe. John began working on the farm in grade school and chose to forgo college football at Findlay College to fully dedicate himself to the family operation. As the full-time owner of Wolfe’s Produce, he is known for growing high-quality sweet corn, pumpkins, and other vegetables, using both conventional and no-till practices while embracing innovation rooted in tradition. A mentor to young farmers and a resource to peers across county lines, John has played a vital role in advancing agricultural practices regionally. He also serves his community as a Marion Township Trustee, a member of the Republican Central Committee, and an active member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Each fall, Wolfe’s Produce brings vibrant seasonal offerings to Northwest Ohio and beyond, making John a cornerstone of local agriculture and a model of dedication, service, and hard work.
Please join us in honoring Michael Biery, S. David DeVore, Paul William Lauck, Sr., and John E. Wolfe as the newest inductees into the Hancock County Agriculture Hall of Fame.
About Hancock County Agriculture Hall of Fame:
The Hancock County Agriculture Hall of Fame, run by the OSU Extension Office, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the agricultural industry and the community. Through recognition and celebration of these achievements, the Hall of Fame aims to inspire future generations of agricultural leaders.