In honor of Mike Meelberg

Our Leader, Our Friend

Federated Coops and its employees are saddened by the loss of our long term employee, mentor, and friend, Mike Meelberg.  It’s with a heavy heart that we write this, but we need to remember and honor the man that has given so much to the coop and to all those that have gotten to know him.

Mike started his 37 year career as a Fertilizer Plant manager in Princeton and quickly moved up to be the Agronomy Division manager and eventually the Operations manager.  Mike was involved in all aspects of running the coop. He was an extremely intelligent and talented man. Some of his many accomplishments included bringing the coop into the computer age with the purchase of our first computer. Mike was instrumental in helping the coop navigate through several successful mergers, and coordinating many of the expansions and building projects.

Beyond the pride he took in running an efficient business, what he was most proud of was the team of employees that he got to work with every day.  He said, “He was so lucky to be able to work with so many people that he became close friends with.”

For many decades, he was not only our leader, but a true friend.  Mike was one who truly led by example.  As our leader, he would never ask you to do anything that he himself wouldn’t do.  From making the hard decisions, to doing the physically hard and dirty jobs, Mike would be right there with you, no matter how long it took.  As a friend, he was always there for you. Asking what he could do for you? What could he help you with? Volunteering his time and never asking for anything in return. Many times after hours, Mike could be found out on a producers’ farm repairing a truck, fixing their computer, or offering a hand where needed.

Mike lived life to the fullest.  He was constantly on the go from one project to the next, whether that be at work or in his personal life, Mike seldom seemed to rest.  There was always something more for him to see, for him to do, for him to explore, or for him to accomplish.  He will be dearly missed by all those who knew him.