4-H leader honored

Connie Pagels, a longtime 4-H leader who died in January, recently received an “Outstanding Community Service” award from Sturgis City Commission members.

Daughters Diana Yeager and Pamela Keeslar accepted the award.

Pagels became a 4- H leader in 1969 and in 1983 was asked to be the first superintendent for the dog care and training program, a role she held until 2000.

After several years as assistant superintendent, she again was named superintendent and served in that capacity from 2007 through 2019.

Pagels, a Burr Oak resident, volunteered setting up trophies for more than 35 years, served on 4-H Youth Council and helped in the 4- H office preparing for the St. Joseph County Grange Fair. During fair week, she was a ring steward for livestock shows and helped with paperwork in the office.

She also coordinated Tractor Supply Company’s 4- H clover sale for St. Joseph County and was a member of Grange Fair Association.