Eminent Homemaker
County: Meade
Jeanne Bachand of Sturgis, South Dakota, is a dedicated and faithful member of her family, church and community. For her interest in education, and her contributions to her family and her community, Bachand received the Eminent Homemaker award during ceremonies at South Dakota State University.
This eminent homemaker is described by the people of her community as "very people oriented". She unselfishly donates much of her time and efforts to many community projects and organizations.
A 4-H leader for 24 years and a Meade County Extension Board member for seven years, she also has served on the State Extension Board for three years, the County Planning Committee, and numerous other community organizations.
But her commitment to community service did not stop there. Jeanne was an Extension Homemaker for more than 25 years serving as a club and county officer. She has also served as president of the Meade County 4-H Leaders Association, and has been a Key 4-H Leader in the Foods and Nutrition project area.
Bachand was a member of the Board of Directors of the Meade County Fair Association for four years, and was in charge of Home Economics exhibits.
As a former elementary school teacher, she feels very strongly about the development of young people. The Bachand family has hosted foreign exchange students from Japan, Mexico, France and Denmark through the 4-H program.
She is knowledgeable in many homemaking skills, but may also be found working beside her husband, Wilbur, on the ranch caring for livestock and crops.
She is a member of the St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Sturgis, and of the St. Francis of Assisi and Altar Society.
The Bachands have five children: Pam Livermont of Wamblee, South Dakota; Coleen Peterson of Highmore, South Dakota; Brett of Belle Fourche, South Dakota; Narcel of Dupree, South Dakota; and Hallie of Sturgis, South Dakota.