Solutions-Oriented Manufacturer Renowned for Many Inventions, Contributions to Rural Life
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa - February 6, 2014 - Those who know him best in Oskaloosa, say Gary Kelderman has a reputation of being able to tinker and fix almost anything, and make it better. Kelderman's start as an ambitious teenager, eager to work on cars and machinery, has grown over time into a successful Oskaloosa-based manufacturing business, with more than 25 patents and 45 employees. In recognition of its numerous contributions to the community, Kelderman Manufacturing has been named the latest Iowa Farm Bureau Federation's (IFBF) Renew Rural Iowa Award winner.
Founded in 1970 in Kelderman's one-stall hot rod shop, the problem-solving operation has grown to a 100,000 square foot manufacturing facility and is a leading supplier of innovative products for the agricultural industry. Perhaps Kelderman's best-known product is the Kelderman fold kit designed for the 7000 and 7200 Series John Deere planters. "If you're a farmer, you probably have one, and if you don't, your neighbor probably does," said Jeff Kelderman, who joined the family business and now runs it together with his father. "Our products are on almost every farm," says Kelderman, proudly.
The key to success for Kelderman Manufacturing has been the ability to innovate as needs arise. Whether designing a way for farmers to move their heavy equipment from field to field more efficiently, inventing a reel for combines to pick up spilled corn in the field, or creating a smoother ride for large trucks, Kelderman Manufacturing continues to bring innovation to the agriculture community. "If someone needed something made or built to make a job easier, Gary Kelderman could do it," said Pete Fynaardt, Mahaska County Farm Bureau president. "Kelderman Manufacturing is a real asset to the community."
Renew Rural Iowa (RRI) is an IFBF initiative supporting new and existing businesses through education, mentoring, and financial resources. The next Renew Rural Iowa Business Success Seminar takes place Tuesday March 11, 2014, at Iowa Farm Bureau's Auditorium in West Des Moines. For more information, go to www.renewruraliowa.com
