URBANDALE, Iowa — Bill Northey, the former Iowa Secretary of Agriculture and an advocate for Iowa farmers, passed away at the age of 64.
The Agribusiness Association of Iowa, of which Northey served as CEO, announced his passing on Monday.
"Bill was a tireless advocate for agriculture and a beloved leader for the entire AAI staff and organization," the association said. "As we mourn the loss of our close colleague, we also extend our prayers for his family in this difficult time."
Northey was the Iowa Secretary of Agriculture for over a decade from 2006 to 2018. He went on to serve as Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation at the U.S. Department of Agriculture from 2018 to 2021.
“Bill was a great leader whose work ethic and passion for Iowa agriculture was unmatched," said Gov. Kim Reynolds in a statement. "Iowans and farmers around the country were fortunate to have such a rock-solid advocate and friend. Bill understood well our responsibility to be good stewards of the land and exemplified that calling throughout his career."
A fourth-generation farmer, Northey received his bachelor's degree in Agriculture Business from Iowa State University and an MBA from Southwest Minnesota State University, according to the USDA. Beyond his roles in the government, Northey also once served as president and chairman of the National Corn Growers Association.
He is survived by his wife, children and grandchildren.
"Bill was a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a farmer," said Mike Naig, the current Iowa Secretary of Agriculture and Northey's successor. in a statement. "He loved Iowa and he loved Iowa agriculture. His curiosity, care for others, and love of learning made him a leader that everyone could admire. Bill brought a farmer’s work ethic to every aspect of his life, and he was tireless in promoting our state, its people and our agriculture."
Naig continued to add, "Bill was a friend and mentor to so many people here in Iowa and across the country, including me. This is an incredible loss for our state, for agriculture, and for everybody who knew and loved Bill.”
Reynolds has ordered all flags in Iowa to be lowered to half-staff until sunset on the day of Northey's funeral and internment.
Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.