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Crawford County’s Annette Boeck to Be Honored at Iowa State Fair for Lifetime of 4-H Service
A lifetime dedicated to family, community, and the values of 4-H will be recognized on a statewide stage this weekend as Crawford County’s own Annette Boeck is set to be honored at the Iowa State Fair. The ceremony will take place Sunday, August 17, at 1:30 p.m. in the 4-H Building.
Boeck’s commitment to 4-H spans more than five decades, beginning in childhood when her father, Maclyn LaRue, served as an extension director for 30 years — most of them in Crawford County. Growing up in the program alongside her four siblings, Boeck first joined the Atomic Stars 4-H Club, where she developed her love for sewing, clothing, and fashion. That early passion and the leadership skills she gained helped shape her life’s path, including her decision to study Home Economics at Iowa State University.
Over the years, Boeck became not only a 4-H judge but also a longtime leader of the Good Handy Helpers 4-H Club, where she encouraged members to try projects in every category, organized workshops, and planned creative learning experiences. Even after stepping down as a leader in 2000, she continued to guide area youth through sewing clinics and fashion events well into the 2010s.
Her influence has now extended to the next generation — 10 of her 12 grandchildren have been 4-H members, with seven still active today. Boeck continues to mentor them and other young members, fostering the same teamwork, problem-solving, and dedication that have defined her service.
This summer marks her 51st year as a 4-H judge, and she plans to return to the judging table in Moville next year. Sunday’s recognition at the Iowa State Fair will serve as a public celebration of her remarkable career and lasting impact on Crawford County’s 4-H community.
