John is a fifth-generation farmer at Schoen Farms, which was established in the 1850’s on the rolling hills of the Mississippi River in Southeast Missouri. He is a graduated of Oak Ridge High School and attended Southeast Missouri University. John’s true learning came from listening, reading, attending seminars, going on farm tours and not being afraid of new trends and technologies. His true inspirations came from the various Dairy Extension personnel.

While managing the dairy farm he has overseen the expansion of several projects including modern free-stall barns and state-of-art milk parlor. John is also involved in various dairy boards which include Prairie Farms – Board of Director, St. Louis Dairy Council, Chair of Dairy committee of Missouri Farm Bureau, Board of Missouri Dairy Association, Missouri State Milk Board, and has held various seats in the Missouri Holstein Association. He very proud that his wife and all three children are involved with the farm and appreciates the involvement of his grandchildren – the seventh generation.