Randy Wirt can be remembered as the manager of Little International in 1978 or as a successful purebred swine breeder. However, to his family, Randy was known as a hard worker, an encourager, and someone whose passion for youth in agriculture was unparalleled.

Randy began his agricultural journey through 4-H and FFA before attending South Dakota State University in 1974 to pursue a degree in animal science. While his ultimate goal was to return to the family farm, he discovered a deep calling in the red Little I barn.

Randy’s involvement in Little I began as a swine exhibitor, earning reserve round robin showmanship honors in 1976 and champion sheep fitter recognition in 1977. After serving as assistant manager, he became manager of the 57th Little International. 

One of his proudest accomplishments during his tenure was relocating the event from the old barn on campus to the animal science arena. 

This transition brought new challenges, including assembling the iconic red barn cutout and the white fence synonymous with the event’s green and gold chips. 

Katie Fish, Randy’s youngest daughter, reflected on his pride during this time. 

“He could probably care less what grades he had in the books.” Katie said. “He knew he was coming back to the farm, so the diploma was pride itself, but to get involved with people was something he always loved—and livestock too—which was a perfect combination for him.”

Little I also became a place of introduction for Randy and his future wife, Chris, who was pursuing an associate’s secretarial degree at the time. 

“While he was assistant manager, him and one of the guys came out and made rounds for the livestock,” Chris recalled. “And I had a Hereford heifer. I was out on the farm working on it, and that’s how we met.”

During his time at SDSU, Randy also participated in Alpha Gamma Rho, Rodeo Club, Block and Bridle, and the livestock judging team. However, the relationships he built on the green chips held a special place in his heart. 

“It was really important to him to see it evolve and grow,” Chris said. “He had his little stake in the ground for how he impacted that.”

Randy’s connection to Little I extended beyond his college years. The family made annual trips to Brookings for the event, instilling the tradition in his children. “As a kid, that was a guaranteed annual trip that we were going to Brookings for Little I,” said Adam Wirt, the son of Randy and Chris. 

Sarah Baloun, Randy’s middle daughter, also cherished these trips. 

“It was very much a family event we attended every year,” Sarah said. “As a little kid sitting in the bleachers, it was always something I wanted to do someday.”

After graduating, Randy returned to the family farm, where his father, Russell, had built a purebred Duroc operation. Randy added purebred Hampshires and expanded the operation to include sheep. In 1977, the family hosted their first sale of purebred boars and gilts. 

Over time, the swine industry’s shift toward artificial insemination led the operation to focus on producing high-quality show pigs. Today, the sale, now in its 47th year, continues under Adam and Sarah’s management.

“We’ve lost a pretty important herdsman,” Adam said. “Sarah took over the day-in-and-day-out of the swine operation, and I’ve done that with the sheep side, and yet we work together closely.”

Randy’s pride in his SDSU days was evident through his continued support for the university. He donated show pigs for Little I exhibitors and opened his farm to the SDSU livestock judging team for practice. 

“[My dad’s] days at SDSU, like for many of us, created strong relationships for the future,” Adam said.

In addition to his farm duties, Randy was actively involved in several organizations, including the South Dakota Purebred Swine Breeders Association, Turner County Pork Producers, and South Dakota Pork Producers. 

He also served as a co-superintendent for the Aksarben swine show and a dedicated volunteer for the Turner County Fair. Despite his busy schedule, Randy prioritized his family and youth in agriculture.

“My dad was excited when anybody had an interest in showing or livestock in general,” said Katie. “He gravitated towards that person. He had their back and was excited they were doing it.” 

Randy’s enthusiasm for youth programs and livestock shows was unwavering. He was instrumental in the creation of the Born and Bred Sheep Show and consistently attended the Spotlight Show and the South Dakota State Fair. 

“He always liked the idea of providing more opportunities for kids and for them to show their animals and win money back,” Katie said.

Known for his kindness and vibrant personality, Randy left a lasting impression on everyone he met. 

“He was so busy doing things on the farm, but if someone needed something, he was always there,” Chris said.

Even at national shows, Randy’s ability to connect with others stood out. His children fondly recall long conversations he had with other breeders and memorable road trips to major shows.

“I’ll never forget the 2 a.m. gas-up at a truck stop in Illinois when my dad contemplated buying an AC/DC cassette to help with the drive,” Katie said. “The tape eventually got stuck and is still in the farm truck.”

Randy’s legacy lives on through his children, who all attended SDSU and participated in Little I. Adam followed in his father’s footsteps, eventually becoming the manager of the 79th Little International. Sarah and Katie also embraced the family’s agricultural traditions, excelling in livestock activities during their time at SDSU.

Through his dedication to agriculture, family, and the community, Randy Wirt created a legacy that continues to inspire. 

As Adam reflected, “It was so cool to hear all the stories about the impact he made on others. That really showed us what kind of guy we got to spend time with.”

Written by Ella Stiefvater