Farmers Union Members Honor the Legacy of John Stencel

Brighton, Colo. – Members of the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union (RMFU) are mourning the loss of longtime leader John Stencel, who passed away on March 18, 2025. A tireless champion of family agriculture, Stencel dedicated his life to strengthening rural communities and advancing agricultural policy at both the state and national levels.

Stencel’s leadership in Rocky Mountain Farmers Union began in 1970 when, at just 28 years old, he was elected president. He held the position for over two decades, guiding RMFU through a period of growth and innovation, then served a second time as president from 2000-2006. Under his tenure, RMFU membership expanded, the Educational and Charitable Foundation was established, and key initiatives like the Fellows Program and the Cooperative Development Center took shape—initiatives that continue to impact agricultural communities today.

“John Stencel’s career and life were dedicated to American family agriculture and Farmers Union,” said RMFU President Chad Franke. “He led with integrity and passion, always working to support farmers and ranchers.”

Beyond his time with RMFU, Stencel served at the national level, working in Washington, D.C., as the Deputy Administrator of the Farm Service Agency and with USDA’s Packers and Stockyards program. Even in retirement, he remained an active advocate, attending RMFU and National Farmers Union conventions and participating in agricultural policy discussions—including the Colorado Legislative Drive-In, just a day before his passing.

In recognition of his lifelong contributions, Stencel received some of the highest honors among the Farmers Union Community, including the National Farmers Union Meritorious Service Award, the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union Lifetime Service Award, and induction into the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame.

“Even in his final days, John was committed to the cause of family agriculture,” Franke added. “His legacy will continue to shape Farmers Union for generations to come.”

Stencel is survived by his wife, children, extended family, and a grateful community of farmers, ranchers, and advocates who benefited from his unwavering leadership.