Cheryl & Lloyd Williams proudly own and operate Williams Homestead Farm.
Being a farmer is a vocation deeply rooted in tradition and resilience. It’s a life of early mornings and long hours, where the rhythm of nature sets the pace. A farmer’s connection to the land and the animals they tend to runs profound. Their commitment to nurturing the soil and fostering growth is unwavering. It’s a career that demands adaptability. Each day brings new challenges, from unpredictable weather to evolving agricultural practices.
But in the midst of the toil and the uncertainty, there’s an enduring love for the great outdoors, the satisfaction of seeing crops flourish, and the pride of providing sustenance for their community. Farmers are not just cultivators of the land; they are stewards of a way of life that has been passed down through generations, and they hold the keys to ensuring a sustainable future for us all.
Meet Lloyd Williams
Lloyd Williams, a native of this land, possesses an intimate knowledge of its topography, natural springs, and soil types, making him an invaluable resource and guide. With a lifelong dedication to dairy farming, Lloyd’s fervor for raising and breeding cows earned him international acclaim when one of his cows clinched the title of Grand Supreme Champion at the North American International Livestock Exhibition (NAILE) for three consecutive years. Driven by his passion for dairying, he collaborated with a local cheesemaker to reintroduce Bon Bree cheese to the local community.
Beyond his agricultural pursuits, Lloyd has been a proactive member of the community. He has served as a 4-H mentor and held the position of past president in the Waukesha County Farm Bureau. He was also a former member of the Town Plan Commission. Lloyd holds a B.S. in Dairy Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
About Lloyd Williams
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
For more than five decades, I’ve been blessed to be married to the light of my life and the love of my heart. Together, we’ve raised two wonderful daughters who now have loving husbands, Jodi and Shawn, as well as Jennifer and Sean. Our family has expanded to include five incredible grandchildren: Lloyd, Lillian, Lacy, Josiah, and Jaeden.
Q: Please tell us about your life and what you do (whether working in our community, a business owner, volunteer, etc.). How did you choose that path?
I was born into a farm family with roots tracing back to 1836. My upbringing on the farm ignited a deep passion for animals and crop management. Over the years, I’ve also found fulfillment in real estate development and community service. I’ve dedicated my time to the Delafield Town Board and the Park and Recreation Committee for the Town of Delafield. Additionally, my commitment extended to serving on the Waukesha Farm Bureau, where I held the position of president for many years. More recently, I’ve found enjoyment in my involvement with the Wallstreet Farmers Investment Club, where I engage in the trading of stocks.
Q: What do you love most about what you do?
Through meticulous breeding and a commitment to excellence, we cultivated an exceptionally competitive herd of registered Holstein cattle. Our unwavering dedication to the art of genetic selection was driven by a singular objective: to produce the ultimate champion cow. Our efforts bore fruit as we achieved remarkable success at both State and National shows. We were immensely proud to have our Grand Supreme Champion cow recognized at the prestigious Louisville National Champion event in Louisville, Kentucky. Our achievements continued this year at the Waukesha County Fair, where we were honored with the title of Grand Supreme Champion cow. These accolades are a testament to our relentless pursuit of genetic perfection and our passion for raising top-tier Holsteins.
Q: What was the most difficult challenge in getting to where you are now or in your life?
Our farming operation encompasses 600 acres of diverse crops, including hay, corn, wheat, and soybeans. Yet, our success is intricately tied to the ever-fickle weather patterns. The capricious nature of Mother Nature poses both our greatest challenge and our most critical consideration. Excessive rainfall and drought alike test our mettle when it comes to making informed management decisions. Balancing the delicate dance with the weather is an inherent part of our livelihood, one that underscores the resilience and adaptability required in the world of agriculture.
Q: What is the most rewarding part?
As we make the transition into a well-deserved semi-retirement, we feel truly blessed. It’s an extraordinary gift to witness the continuity of the home farm, which has been an integral part of my family’s heritage for generations. The opportunity to safeguard this treasured property for agricultural use brings hope for the future. Through the sale of over 400 acres of our beloved family homestead farm to Gwenyn Hill Organic Farm, we are ensuring that this valuable land will remain dedicated to agriculture for years to come. It stands as a beautiful testament to the legacy of our family farm and a gift that will benefit not only us but also the generations that follow.
Q: What are some of your future goals: Do you have anything exciting coming up you would like to share?
I eagerly anticipate the role of mentoring my family as they chart their course for the future. Drawing upon a lifetime of knowledge and experience, I aim to provide leadership, guidance, and direction to help them navigate their paths. My ultimate aspiration is to see our family heritage carried forward, ensuring that the wisdom and values accumulated over the years remain an enduring legacy.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in what you are doing/done?
Farming is an exceptionally demanding career choice, one that requires an unwavering passion for the outdoors and a deep commitment to long hours dedicated to working with animals and tending to the land. It’s a vocation that knows no weekends or holidays, as it demands your attention 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Yet, despite the challenges, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to embrace this way of life. I wouldn’t dissuade anyone who shares the same desires and aspirations for farming, for it is a journey filled with rewards that transcend the toil and dedication it demands.
Q: What makes you happiest?
I find immense joy in the great outdoors, observing the ebb and flow of seasons in the beautiful landscapes of Wisconsin. However, my greatest happiness is derived from watching my family set forth on their own journeys and endeavors. It’s in those moments of their growth and success that I discover the truest and most fulfilling sense of contentment.
Q: Any general life advice you would like to share?
The advice I wish to impart is that individuals, even when faced with challenging circumstances, should strive to lead as stress-free a life as possible. Moreover, if there’s one thing I’ve learned in life, it’s that time passes far too swiftly. Therefore, my counsel is not to delay pursuing your dreams and visions. Seize the opportunities that come your way and make the most of every moment.
Lloyd Williams & Our Community
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Reminiscing about the past is a source of great pleasure for me. Among my fondest memories are the moments spent working alongside the generation that came before me, absorbing their life experiences and wisdom as we sat on the tailgate of a pickup truck. These conversations have left an indelible mark on me. Additionally, I take delight in listening to music, and there’s a special place in my heart for the timeless tunes of Neil Diamond. Music has a unique way of evoking emotions and connecting us to cherished moments of the past.
Q: What is your favorite book, TV show or song?
I find some of the most enjoyable reading material in publications related to agriculture, like “Successful Farming” and “Hoards Dairyman.” These sources provide valuable insights and knowledge about the industry I hold dear. In addition to my love for reading, I have fond memories of watching television shows like “Dallas,” and “Falcon Crest,” with my family. These moments of shared entertainment brought us together and added a special touch to our time spent as a family.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
Throughout my life, I’ve drawn inspiration from the fierce competitiveness found within the show ring. It has instilled in me a relentless drive to continually raise the bar and strive for excellence. This pursuit of improvement and the quest for perfection have been driving forces that have shaped my journey.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
As I’ve found more free time to explore and travel, I’ve uncovered a deep passion for being on the water, particularly in the scenic waters of Florida. The tranquility and beauty of these aquatic environments have captured my heart. It is my hope that one day, I can turn this passion into a reality by becoming a certified captain, enabling me to fully embrace and share my love for the open seas.
Q: What is your favorite thing about our community, favorite thing to do or something unique about our community?
Our community holds a special place in our hearts, and we relish every moment spent here. What sets our community apart is the wonderful blend of convenience and tranquility. We have all the essential amenities just a stone’s throw away, yet we are privileged to reside amidst the serene and idyllic Welsh Hills. It’s the perfect balance, allowing us to enjoy the peaceful and quiet countryside while still having everything we need nearby. This unique blend has made our community an exceptional place to live, work, and raise our children, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
Q: Who is an interesting person you met in our community and how have they inspired you?
Throughout my lifetime, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know neighbors from diverse walks of life. Among the memorable encounters, I had the pleasure of meeting individuals like Gorman Thomas, a notable figure from the Milwaukee Brewers. Additionally, I forged strong friendships with people like Dennis Hilgart, who was involved in promoting WWF wrestling and country music shows. These connections added a rich tapestry of experiences and relationships to my life journey, making it all the more colorful and fulfilling.
Q: Do you have a favorite coffee shop, cocktail shop or restaurant?
Every now and then, my wife Cheryl and I like to relax and unwind at some of our favorite local spots. You might catch us at Gina’s Sports Dock, indulging in their renowned hamburgers. We also savor the dining experience at Ella’s in Wales, and on special occasions, we treat ourselves to meals at Palmer’s in Hartland and Kurt’s Steakhouse in Delafield. These dining establishments have become cherished go-to places for us to enjoy great food and each other’s company.
Where to Find Lloyd Williams
Email: williamsfarm@wi.rr.com
Phone: (414) 520-2436
