Robert G. Idel

FCS Financial - Inducted in 2018

At any agricultural event in Missouri, one of the faces you're likely to see belongs to Bob Idel. Bob is the go-to person for Missouri agriculture and is recognized as the face of Farm Credit. His active involvement with numerous agricultural organizations is filled with success stories.

Bob has spent his entire professional career and devoted considerable personal time supporting education, youth, agriculture, and cooperative initiatives at the local, state, and national level. An authentic leader, with an unwavering commitment to agriculture and the cooperative form of business, Bob is a passionate supporter of 4-H, FFA, and the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources at the University of Missouri, particularly in activities that raise money for scholarships. His outstanding service is unmatched in the level of measurable impact to develop future agricultural leaders.

During his career of more than 40 years, Bob led FCS appraisal, marketing, and insurance staffs. He is an innovator who makes things happen, as well as an advocate for Missouri cooperatives. Bob's personality, leadership and communication skills, and his ability to get along with others are a rare combination of talents that make him such a valuable asset and role model. He has always provided reliable visionary leadership and hands-on service in every role. Bob continues with the family farm, providing care to his parents and serves as a leader in Farm Credit, the Missouri Pork Association, National FFA, and many other volunteer leadership roles.

Cooperative principles are fundamental to Bob's character. Respected by his peers in the Farm Credit System, as well as the board and farmers served by FCS, Bob Idel's passion for agriculture and cooperatives is legendary. He has devoted his life to service for causes greater than himself and has made a measurable impact that will benefit Missouri cooperatives for generations to come.

Ambassador for Missouri agriculture, true champion of creating opportunities for rural youth, unwavering belief in the power of cooperation