June Dairy Month Showcase

Celebrating our local dairy farm families all month long

Featured Farm: Retzlaff Century Farms – Belle Plaine

Family-operated since 1863, Retzlaff Century Farms is a proud multi-generational dairy in Belle Plaine. Run today by Nathan Retzlaff and his family, the farm milks 208 cows of various breeds. What makes the farm truly special is watching the next generation grow and take on more responsibility each day.

And don’t forget Gigi (pictured above)—the beloved junk food queen of the herd, known for her love of chips, beef jerky, and Charleston Chews!

Featured Farm: Sunnynook Farm – Black Creek

As part of our June Dairy Month celebration, we’re proud to shine a light on the hardworking families behind Wisconsin’s dairy heritage. Today’s featured farm is Sunnynook Dairy Farms in Black Creek, Wisconsin, where pride, personality, and tradition are at the heart of everything they do.

Sunnynook is truly a family-run operation, with Clint and Abby Mueller at the helm, working side by side with their daughters Rayleah and Tana. The Muellers are the fifth generation to run the farm, continuing a legacy that stretches back more than a century.

While they may be small in size, milking just 55 cows, the Muellers are big on heart—and they wouldn’t have it any other way. “We are small and proud of it,” says Tana. It’s that close-knit scale that allows them to really get to know and care for each animal individually.

In fact, what makes Sunnynook Dairy truly special is the personality of the herd. Every cow on the farm has her own unique name and character, and they’re known for being unusually friendly. One beloved member of the herd is their 13-year-old Brown Swiss, a gentle old soul who has become a fixture of the farm and a favorite among visitors.

For the Muellers, dairy farming isn’t just a job—it’s a way of life. It’s about honoring the generations before them while nurturing a love for animals, responsibility, and community in the generations to come.

We salute the Muellers of Sunnynook Dairy Farms for their dedication, care, and commitment to keeping Wisconsin’s dairy tradition alive and thriving. Happy June Dairy Month!

Featured Farm: Matsche Farms Inc. – Birnamwood

As we celebrate June Dairy Month, we’re honored to feature Matsche Farms Inc., a remarkable family-run operation in Birnamwood, Wisconsin that blends generations of tradition with forward-thinking innovation.

Founded in 1966 by the Matsche family, the farm’s heritage stretches back even further—with deep Shawano County roots dating to 1917. Today, the farm is operated by Scott and Carrie Matsche, along with several other family members who continue the legacy with passion and pride.

What sets Matsche Farms apart is not just its scale, but its heart. With a herd of 6,700 cows, it stands as one of the largest dairy operations in the region. Yet, the Matsche family approaches each day with the same care and joy as if they were milking just 50 cows. This balance of growth and grounded values is what makes their farm truly special.

At Matsche Farms, “quality begins with care”—care for their animals, their land, and the community they serve. It’s a principle that guides everything they do, from maintaining a healthy environment for their cows to staying actively involved in local events and initiatives.

The Matsche family believes a dairy farm should be more than just a place to produce milk—it should be a place that feels good to be around, where people are proud to work, and where future generations can grow up learning the values of responsibility, stewardship, and respect.

We salute the entire team at Matsche Farms Inc. for their dedication, leadership, and continued contribution to Wisconsin’s proud dairy heritage. Happy June Dairy Month!

Featured Farm: Van-Han Dairy Farm – Appleton

As we continue celebrating June Dairy Month, we’re honored to share the story of a farm that is rich in heritage, family values, and lasting memories—Van Han Dairy Farm in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Van Han Dairy traces its roots all the way back to 1846, when it was founded by a Holland family. Over the years, it’s been passed down through generations, and today, it’s proudly operated by Jamie Van Handel alongside his wife Shaena and their four daughters: Taylor, Abby, Hannah, and Isabelle. That strong family foundation continues to shape the heart and soul of the farm today.

The Van Han family currently milks 75 cows, and while the operation may be modest in size, it’s rich in history. In years past, the farm was also home to goats, sheep, horses, and chickens, making it a vibrant, multi-animal homestead that taught valuable lessons and created cherished memories for the family.

What makes Van Han Dairy truly special to Jamie isn’t just the land or the livestock—it’s the deep connection to his family’s past. “It’s part of my family history,” Jamie shares. “The memories and lessons learned have made this farm special to me.”

Adding to the legacy, the farm is also home to a new chapter in the family’s story—Green Handle Greenhouses, owned and operated by Jean Van Handel. Built right on the farm’s land, the greenhouse business is yet another way the Van Handels continue to grow with purpose while staying rooted in tradition.

From generation to generation, Van Han Dairy Farm stands as a testament to resilience, family, and the spirit of Wisconsin farming. Happy June Dairy Month to the Van Handels and all the dedicated families like them!

Featured Farm: Bartz Spruce Road Farm – Belle Plaine

As June Dairy Month continues, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on a local farm where tradition, family, and innovation go hand in hand—Bartz Spruce Road Farms in Belle Plaine, just outside Shawano.

Originally founded by Robert and Madge Bartz, the farm is now in its fourth generation, proudly operated by Ken Bartz, Marvin Bartz and family, and Katherine Bartz. What started as a small family venture has grown into a thriving dairy operation that remains 100% family-owned and operated—something that’s becoming increasingly rare in the dairy industry today.

The Bartz family currently milks 70 cows, and while the size of the herd might be modest, their dedication and depth of expertise run deep. What truly sets their farm apart is the shared commitment and diverse interests of each family member. Whether it’s focusing on youngstock care, genetics, farm records, crops, or machinery, each person contributes unique strengths—while still working together on all aspects of daily farm life.

In a recent and exciting shift, Bartz Spruce Road Farms expanded their herd beyond Holsteins, welcoming registered Brown Swiss and Jerseys. This move has brought fresh energy to the farm and reflects the family’s willingness to grow and evolve while staying true to their roots.

For the Bartz family, farming isn’t just a job—it’s a way of life built on heritage, hard work, and heart. They take pride in continuing a legacy that spans generations while embracing the future of Wisconsin dairy.

We thank Bartz Spruce Road Farms for their dedication to quality and family, and we’re honored to share their story this June Dairy Month.

Featured Farm: Paiser Family Dairy – Shawano

As we celebrate June Dairy Month, we’re honored to share the story of a farm deeply rooted in family, dedication, and community—Paiser Family Dairy LLC in Shawano County.

The farm’s story began in 1989 when the Paiser family purchased the property from Earl Schroeder. The land itself carries a rich history, having been farmed by Earl’s parents since the 1920s. Today, Kristy, Travis, Trevor, and Fancy Paiser carry on this tradition, operating a thriving dairy that currently milks 550 cows.

What truly makes Paiser Family Dairy special is its strong internal support system—a close-knit team that acts like “a family within a family.” This includes not only the core family members but also reliable semi-truck drivers and machine operators who play crucial roles during busy seasons and daily operations. Their seamless teamwork and dedication keep the farm running smoothly.

The Paisers also proudly honor the memory of Tim Paiser, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Tim was the heart and soul of the farm—the main operator whose hard work, kindness, and infectious laugh left a lasting impact on everyone around him. His unwavering dedication to his family and the farm remains a guiding light for the entire Paiser family.

Paiser Family Dairy LLC stands as a testament to the power of family, resilience, and hard work in Wisconsin’s dairy industry. As they continue to grow and thrive, their commitment to quality care for their animals, land, and community shines bright.

We thank the Paiser family for sharing their inspiring story and for their ongoing contribution to the rich heritage of Wisconsin dairy farming. Happy June Dairy Month!

Featured Farm: B & A Dairy – Town of Richmond

As we celebrate June Dairy Month, we’re excited to highlight the story of B & A Dairy, a family farm located in the Town of Richmond, Wisconsin. Operated by Ben and Alison, with seasonal help from Ben’s father, Brian, this farm is a testament to dedication, family values, and a deep connection to the land.

The roots of B & A Dairy run deep. Ben grew up surrounded by farming, learning the ropes from his father and grandfather. Despite a serious tractor rollover accident in his youth, his passion for farming never diminished. This resilience and commitment have brought the farm to where it is today.

Currently, B & A Dairy milks 40 cows. But what truly makes the farm special to Ben and Alison is the opportunity to raise their two sons, Jackson and Jameson, right on the farm. Watching their boys interact with the animals and learn the values of hard work and stewardship is a daily joy and a unique experience many children don’t get to have.

Alison plays a vital role on the farm and in the family’s success. In 2017, she was honored as the WTCH Farm Woman of the Year—a well-deserved recognition for her dedication, leadership, and heart. The Paisers agree that the farm wouldn’t be where it is today without her unwavering support and tireless work.

B & A Dairy exemplifies what family farming is all about: tradition, resilience, hard work, and love for the land and animals. As they continue to nurture their farm and family, their story inspires us all during June Dairy Month.

Featured Farm: Wagner Farms – Oconto Falls

As we celebrate June Dairy Month, we proudly feature Wagner Farms, a remarkable fifth-generation dairy farm located in Oconto Falls, Wisconsin. This family-owned farm is led by Hank and Pam Wagner, their son Shawn, daughter Laura Raatz, and her husband Tyler. With a deep-rooted history dating back to 1896, Wagner Farms has grown from wooded land to a thriving dairy operation with 950 milking cows and a team of 16 dedicated workers.

The story began when the farm was purchased from a lumber company and cleared for farming. In 1956, Hank’s father Tony took over with just 15 cows. Today, under Hank and Pam’s leadership since 1987, the farm has expanded to a large-scale operation while still embracing the family farm spirit.

What makes Wagner Farms truly special is their unwavering commitment to three core values: people, animals, and the environment. Hank serves as CEO and farm manager, while Pam keeps the farm running smoothly by maintaining the grounds and preparing meals that bring the family together daily. Shawn manages crops and machinery, Laura cares for calves and herds, and Tyler oversees feed and employee management.

Wagner Farms takes animal care seriously. Their cows wear fitbits to monitor health and comfort, and the farm invests in top-notch living quarters and nutrition to ensure the animals thrive. Sustainability is also a priority: the farm uses innovative soil management practices, including cover crops, no-till farming, and an autonomous irrigation robot that supplies nutrients throughout the growing season.

Together, this dedicated family and their team work year-round to produce quality milk for more than 165,000 people, honoring the legacy of generations past while focusing on the future. Their passion for farming and dedication to their community shines in everything they do, making Wagner Farms a true gem of Oconto Falls.

Featured Farm: Triple D Dairy – Clintonville

For today’s June Dairy Month Dairy Farm Showcase, we’re proud to feature Triple D Dairy, LLC, located on the north side of Clintonville. This family farm is rich in history, rooted in tradition, and driven by generations of passion for dairy farming.

Triple D Dairy’s story begins all the way back in 1872, when August Hanke, the brother-in-law of William Viergutz Sr., first settled the land. In 1906, William (Bertha) Viergutz Sr. purchased the farm, passing it down to his son William Jr. in 1928, and then to Warren (Darhl) Viergutz in 1966, who established the Triple D Farm name. A major turning point came in 2000, when a devastating barn fire changed the course of the family’s legacy. Out of that loss, resilience rose. David (Connie) Viergutz formed Triple D Dairy, LLC, a modern and progressive dairy operation that continues to thrive today.

David represents the fifth generation of the Viergutz family to care for this land, and his son Jacob is now actively involved as the sixth. Together, they milk around 500 cows in a double-nine parlor, with three milkings a day—a testament to both dedication and innovation.

What makes Triple D Dairy truly special is their unwavering commitment to family and tradition. Each generation has added its own contributions to the farm’s legacy, building not just a business, but a living history of values, hard work, and love for the land. The Viergutz family’s story is a shining example of what makes Wisconsin dairy so extraordinary.

Happy June Dairy Month from Triple D Dairy and all of us celebrating our hardworking farm families!

Featured Farm: Olson Dairy Farms, Inc – Birnamwood

As we continue celebrating June Dairy Month, we’re proud to spotlight Olson Dairy Farms Inc., a multi-generational family farm located near Birnamwood. Owned and operated by Kurt Jr. and Kyrsta Olson, the farm is also home to their four sons—Carter, Luke, Evan, and Reid—and supported by retired second-generation owners Kurt and Cindy Olson, who remain vital to the operation’s legacy.

Olson Dairy milks 600 cows and manages over 1,500 acres of cropland, combining strong family values with cutting-edge technology. In 2020, the Olsons made a significant investment in the future of dairy by installing a 10-robot milking system, improving both efficiency and work-life balance for the family. They also care for young calves in a dedicated calf barn equipped with three robotic calf feeders, demonstrating their commitment to animal health and innovation.

What truly makes this farm special is its strong family foundation and deep roots in the community. That commitment to community will be front and center when Olson Dairy hosts the 2025 Shawano County Brunch on the Farm on Sunday, June 22nd, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Visitors will get an up-close look at daily farm life, take farm tours, and meet the family behind the operation.

From tradition to technology, Olson Dairy Farms Inc. is a shining example of Wisconsin dairy pride—past, present, and future.

Featured Farm: Birling Bovines LLC – Black Creek

In the heart of Black Creek, Birling Bovines LLC is a shining example of family, heritage, and a deep-rooted passion for dairy farming. The farm is proudly owned and operated by Jim Birling, Dan Birling, and Tammy Smith, continuing a legacy that began generations ago with Mike Birling.

Mike moved to the area as a child and spent his youth raising cattle on the land that would eventually become Birling Bovines. His hard work and dedication helped build the foundation of the farm, which he later passed down to his children. Today, that same spirit of commitment and care lives on through the current owners and the extended Birling family, many of whom still work on the farm.

Birling Bovines milks approximately 1,400 cows each day, showcasing both the scale and dedication of this family-run operation. What makes the farm truly special, beyond its numbers and history, is the team’s love for working alongside one another. “This farm is so special to me for so many reasons,” shared one family member. “The biggest is getting to work with my amazing family every day. It’s helped me grow and I can’t wait to see how it continues to evolve.”

The family-centered approach at Birling Bovines LLC is what sets it apart—proof that when you blend tradition with teamwork, great things happen. As part of June Dairy Month, we’re proud to celebrate this incredible farm and the values it represents.