Former Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey Passes Away at 64

DES MOINES, IOWA - Iowa's agriculture community is mourning the loss of former Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey. The Agribusiness Association of Iowa confirmed the news of Northey's passing at the age of 64. Having served as Secretary of Agriculture for eleven years, Northey was known as a tireless advocate for the state's agriculture industry.

Northey was first elected as Secretary of Agriculture in 2006 and was reelected in both 2010 and 2014. In 2017, he left office to join the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in Washington, DC as Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation under the Trump administration.

The Agribusiness Association of Iowa, in a statement released on Monday, expressed their deep condolences and described Northey as a great leader who left his mark on future generations. They recognized his unwavering dedication to agriculture and his role as a beloved leader for the entire organization. The association also extended prayers to Northey's family during this difficult time.

Northey's commitment to agriculture, biofuels, and conservation was unmatched, according to Chuck Grassley, a long-time friend of the Northey family. Grassley highlighted Northey's role as a fierce advocate for the family farmer and expressed his condolences to Northey's wife, Cindy, and their three children.

Bill Northey's passing is a significant loss for the Iowa farm community. Known for his kindness and dedication to public service, Northey was respected by many. However, despite any disagreements, his commitment to his home state was never in doubt, as highlighted by Governor Kim Reynolds, who extended her heartfelt condolences to Northey's family.

Funeral arrangements for Bill Northey are yet to be announced. The Iowa agriculture community will gather to remember and honor the legacy of this dedicated leader who made a profound impact on the state's farming industry.