n an industry built on reliability, integrity, and people who show up every day to keep pork production moving — today we’re honoring one of those behind-the-scenes leaders.

After 15.5 years of service, Dean Feikes, Iowa Falls warehouse assistant, is stepping into a well-earned retirement from Iowa Select Farms.

Dean may be a man of few words, but his impact on the pork industry and supply chain spoke volumes. Known as a steady, dependable presence in the Iowa Falls warehouse, Dean showed up every day ready to do things the right way — helping ensure pork production operations ran smoothly behind the scenes.

Iowa Select Farms Director of Supply Chain Erik Kriessler shared that Dean is “self-sufficient, full of integrity, and someone you can always count on to execute.” That consistency helped set the Iowa Falls warehouse up for success day after day.

For new team members entering the pork industry workforce, Dean was a trusted mentor. Bryce Knudsen recalled that Dean was extremely knowledgeable, patient, and always willing to help — even when it wasn’t part of his job description.

Beyond operations, Dean was someone coworkers trusted and leaned on. Jennifer McMullen shared that he was always willing to listen, offer perspective, and help others feel supported. And as Amanda Hall, procurement specialist, put it simply — “You can always count on Dean.”

Most recently, Dean donated his original Franklin County Ackley-Geneva FFA blue jacket to the Iowa FFA Association, where it will be permanently displayed in the Agriculture Building at the Iowa State Fairgrounds — a fitting tribute to a lifetime rooted in agriculture, service, and leadership.

Dean Feikes, thank you for 15.5 years of dedication, integrity, and excellence in the pork industry. You will be missed, and we wish you nothing but the best in retirement.

That’s pork industry news with Rachel Fishback — in case you missed it!