Friends and supporters of the Iroquois County Fair are remembering Marvin Perzee. The longtime president of the fair board passed away early (Wednesday) at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana. He had stepped down as president in January to deal with what he called ‘a health scare.’

Marvin served as president of the fair board since 1972. His death, ironically, came on the day this year’s county fair opened.

Last evening, during the opening ceremony at the Crescent City fairground, a moment of silence – to reflect on the dedicated years of service to the Iroquois County Fair Family. Marin Perzee was the patriarch (if you will) of the hard-working family of fair volunteers – who, he always proudly said, “was the best county fair in all of Illinois.”

Marvin’s 50 plus years as Fair Board President reflects his proud dedication to building the tradition of what Iroquois County’s Fair and agricultural community is all about. He’s been a number one cheerleader of county fairs and served on the state of Illinois County Fair Board of Directors.; named an ambassador of what county fairs are all about.

Marvin and his wife, Sharon, have worked side by side promoting the fair and as 4-H leaders. Marvin was a voice for agriculture.

The Illinois House of Representatives presented a resolution to honor Marvin & Sharon for their years of accomplishments. The couple also received the Master Farmer Award from Prairie Farmer in 1999.

Marvin also is a past Chairman of the Iroquois County Republican Party.

Current Fair Board President Paul Ahlden said Marvin will be missed.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Knapp Funeral Home in Watseka.

94.1 WGFA