Dairy Profile: The Funks

Art and Kay Funk

New Munich, Minn.

Stearns County 

65 cows

How did you get into farming? My dad died suddenly when I was 20 and I took over from scratch in 1970. I was planning on farming with Dad. Kay and I got married in 1972 and have been working together on the farm since then. Kay grew up on a dairy farm as well.

What are your thoughts and concerns about the dairy industry for the next year? I wish there would be more programs for the young farmers to get started to see that they could make it. A fair price is another concern we have. 

What do you enjoy most about dairy farming? Art: Working together. Kay and I know what we are supposed to do. Care of the animals is number one. Kay: I like my cows and enjoy being outside. 

What has been your biggest accomplishment while dairy farming? Art: The genetics we’ve put in the cows and the payback. The cows really stand out. Kay: Mine is the somatic cell count and trying to keep it around 100,000. 

What are your plans for your dairy in the next five years? We plan to stay where we are at and make minor improvements. 

What is your favorite thing to do on the farm? Art: Fall harvest; it’s just nice to see what you accomplished. Kay: Milking. 

What is your favorite dairy product? Art: cheese. Kay: yogurt. 

What is your favorite dairy recipe? Cheesy potatoes and cheesy turkey. 

What has been the best purchase you’ve ever made on your farm? Art: The TMR mixer, the total ration has really helped production. Kay: The comfort stalls and mats.

What do you enjoy doing in your free-time? We like taking care of the grandkids and love seeing them on the farm. We also like to watch amateur baseball and go to the lake. 

What do you look forward to most about the summer? Art: I am looking forward to good weather. Kay: I’m looking forward to our week at the cabin with our five children and 10 grandchildren, with number 11 on the way. All of the grandchildren are under four years old. Our children come home throughout the year and help on the farm.