Kappers Family
The Kappers family farm was purchased in 1959 by Vernon and Judy Kappers. Their son Jim expressed interest in continuing the family tradition and officially joined the operation in 1976. Together, Jim and Vernon milked 60 registered Holsteins while raising corn, hay, oats and soybeans. When Jim married Janet in 1982, she became an active partner in the farm.
Today, Jim and Janet’s son Ryan and his wife Molly manage the dairy, milking 50 cows and raising their replacement heifers. Jim and Janet continue to farm the land, producing corn and hay. Their other two children, Megan and Tyler, were actively involved in the farm growing up and still lend a hand when needed.
The Kappers family places a strong emphasis on community service. Janet has been deeply involved in 4-H for nearly 40 years, serving in numerous roles, including chaperoning the 4-H State Fair livestock encampment for many years. She also volunteers with FFA, mentoring youth and helping them develop job interview skills while also serving on the nominating committee. Janet has served on the church council, taught Sunday school for more than 40 years and completed two terms on the Fillmore County Extension Committee. Jim has served on the Fillmore County Dairy Herd Improvement Association Board and the Minnesota Holstein Association Board.