By Andi Anderson
The Michigan Dairy Memorial and Scholarship Foundation has recognized Max Dunseth, Foundation Honoree, for his outstanding contributions to the dairy industry and his lifelong commitment to advancing the Holstein breed.
Raised in Bryan, Ohio, Max developed a strong interest in dairy farming at an early age. Growing up near several dairy operations, he gained valuable hands-on experience working with Registered Holstein cattle. During his school years, he was actively involved in agriculture and leadership programs. He served as president of his local FFA chapter for two years and was also a four-year varsity baseball player at Montpelier High School.
Max worked on local dairy farms throughout his youth, helping him build practical skills and knowledge of dairy cattle management. After visiting The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute, he chose to continue learning through real-world farm experience rather than pursuing a traditional college path.
In May 1976, Max married his high school sweetheart, Tina Rasey. Together, they built a family while facing the economic challenges that affected many farming operations during the 1980s. During this period, Max worked as a herdsman and later received an opportunity that would shape the rest of his career.
Following encouragement from colleagues and recruitment by Bob Cain, Area II Manager for Holstein Association USA, Max accepted a consultant position serving Michigan and Indiana. Despite being advised that consultant positions typically lasted only a few years, he remained dedicated to the organization and completed an impressive 31-year career before retiring in 2022.
Throughout his career, Max became widely known for promoting the Holstein breed and supporting dairy producers. His responsibilities included registering cattle, assisting members, marketing animals, and serving as a ringman at cattle sales. He also played an active role in dairy events, membership efforts, conferences, sales committees, and national conventions. In 1977, he joined Holstein Association USA as a member and established the Ti-Max prefix, “The Cows to Watch.”
His contributions earned significant recognition. Max was named Honorary Member by the Indiana Holstein Association in 2022 and received the Distinguished Service Award from the Michigan Holstein Association in 2023.
Outside of his professional life, Max has enjoyed softball, fishing, hunting, golf, and supporting local high school baseball programs. He also achieved first place in the Hoard’s Dairyman judging contest in the Agri-Marketing division.
Reflecting on his successful career, Max often remembered the advice shared by Bob Cain, Area II Manager for Holstein Association USA: “Take care of the Holstein cow and she will take care of you.” This philosophy guided a career devoted to dairy cattle, producers, and industry advancement.
For his lasting impact on Michigan’s dairy community and his dedication to dairy families, the Michigan Dairy Memorial and Scholarship Foundation proudly recognizes Max Dunseth as a Foundation Honoree.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar
Categories: Michigan, Business