Shawn Berg, son of Kendrick & Theresa, was born into the 3rd generation of Berg Shorthorns. As a little boy he loved spending time with his Dad, Kendrick, and Grandpa Orville. He was happy to be out with them checking the cows in the pasture, helping at calving time, fixing the electric fences, or riding in the tractors or combine.

He was six years old when he first entered the show ring with his purebred Shorthorn heifers. Shawn, Peter and Josh would always be busy leading and grooming their show heifers. Josh was a lot younger so he would sit on top of the fence and coached them on. Seemed as though the dirtier they got, the harder they worked. He always looked forward to being part of the crew at the State Fairs, junior shows and production sales.

As he matured he displayed his strong character by always setting himself goals to achieve. He grew up knowing that one day he wanted to be part of the family farming operation. Shawn excelled in high school sports; held offices in the local FFA chapter and 4-H clubs, and continued to show his steers and heifers. By attending the Junior Nationals and participating in the various events he gained lifelong qualities of leadership, communication skills and sportsmanship.

Shawn was proud to be a graduate of Osage High School in 1990. He then attended Iowa State University where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture Studies.

In 1996, Shawn married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth, and began their married life together in Noblesville, Indiana where Shawn was employed by Pioneer Hybrid International.

In 2001, Shawn fulfilled his life-long dream of returning to Osage to join Kendrick and Peter in the family farming operation and raise his two daughters, Isabelle and Peyton, on the farm. Shawn also loved being involved with the Mitchell County Fair Board, and served as Beef Superintendent at the Mitchell County Fair.

About four years ago, Shawn renewed his love for breeding, raising and showing purebred Shorthorn cattle. He spent many hours planning his cattle yard and pasture. He was always delighted to have Isabelle and Peyton with him in the cattle barn doing chores or grooming the show cattle together. Shawn’s pride and great smile was evident when watching his seven year old daughter, Isabelle, show her heifers. Showing the cattle he raised was a great pride of accomplishment to him.

Shawn had two loves in his life – his family and his farming. As a testament to his character, Shawn made it his life’s work to spend quality time with his daughters, whether it was showing them how a baby calf was born or taking them to school each morning. He never missed the opportunity to tell them how much he loved them or to remind them to always follow their dreams.

Shawn will always be remembered for his easy smile, strong faith, pure heart, hard work, generous spirit and appreciation for all life has to offer.