Project proposed to honor the Feichtner family

NORWALK — He was a friend of the fair, and he won't be forgotten. This is a letter sent out to many area businesses, farmers and fair supporters: Dear Friend and Agricultural Community Supporter, To those who have grown up within the agricultural community, the Feichtner name is no stranger. 2021 has brought unimaginable losses to this family. In October, the world tragically lost 16-year-old Own Feichtner and Ohio lost a young agriculture enthusiast. Owen was a sophomore at South Central High School whom many looked up to. He was very involved in 4-H, FFA and basketball. There has been no question the impact Owen made on so many in such a short amount of time. Earlier in the same day as Owen's accident, his grandmother Donna had passed away. In addition, while Owen was exhibiting cattle at the Ohio Beef Expo in March of 2021, he received the news that his grandfather, John, had passed away. Three lives, in such a short time, that shared much more than just a name. The Feichtners have been engaged in the farming community for generations. They have cultivated a legacy in the livestock industry that so many are determined to carry on. Thinking back over the life of these three incredible individuals, there is no better way to honor them than to build a new swine barn at the fair they knew and loved. This project was initially started when Owen and his brother Nash, dedicated their winnings from the premium auction at the Huron County Fair to start a building fund in memory of their grandpa. It will be a great honor to continue their vision with your support. With the help of many within the county, plans have been drawn up to build a new swine barn in their memory. Included in the plans for this new facility are two phases. Although ambitious, Phase 1 is planned to be completed for use at the 2022 Huron County Fair. It includes a 60' X 200' barn in the existing location of the swine barn. Within the structure you will find new pens, a show ring and 2 sets of wash racks. Total estimated cost for the first phase of this project is $400,000. Upon the completion of Phase 1, we will work to finish honoring the Feichtner legacy and begin to draw up plans for Phase 2. When talking with the Feichtner family, it was clear the kind of facilities Owen always looked forward to when showing. ...They weren't just show barns, they were show complexes. That is exactly what we are hoping to create with Phase 2! This includes a 40' X 200' addition to add capacity to the building for more species to enjoy as well as the potential to host jackpot shows throughout the year. More to come on this as plans are developed. Our ask of the community: We are looking for sponsorships to make this vision obtainable. In order to have the project completed by fair, we need to break ground shortly after the first of the year. You can send your donations in by Jan. 15 to: Norwalk Economic Development Committee, 12 Benedict Ave., Norwalk, Ohio 44857. Make checks payable to: Norwalk Economic Development Committee or NEDC. Please denote Feichtner Barn in the memo line.