IL Corn Celebrates Father's Day Farm Family Photo Contest Winners

1st Place: Matt Boulds — Eldorado, IL

Matt Boulds farms in both Saline and Gallatin counties on land that's been in his family since 1951, when his grandpa started the operation. Matt's dad and uncle took over in 1990, and Matt has been farming alongside them since 2016, making him a third-generation farmer.

His winning photo captures a milestone moment: Matt and his son Lane during Lane's very first harvest.

After the kind of growing season Illinois farmers dealt with last year, Matt says he's most proud of how good this year's crops are looking.

When he's not in the field, you'll find him doing some local trucking, with a little '90s country playing in the cab.

2nd Place: Jolene Linker — Berlin Township, IL

Jolene's photo tells a story that spans continents and generations. Her husband, Will Linker, is a seventh-generation farmer, and their nine-year-old son Graham is already dreaming of becoming the eighth.

The photo she submitted captures four generations working together during last fall's harvest: Billy Linker (sixth generation), Will Linker (seventh generation), John Linker (who now lives in New Zealand but has flown home the past two years to help with harvest) and Graham in the front, representing the future of the Linker farm.

"Farming means family to us," Jolene said. "Continuing on the tradition set by our predecessors, working hard to preserve the land and position the operation for success for years to come."

When asked what their farm theme song would be if they had one their answer: "Good Day" by Brett Eldredge, a fitting reminder to head out with a positive attitude no matter what the day brings.

3rd Place: Angie Wietekamp-Franzen — McLean and DeWitt Counties, IL

Angie and her husband, Doug, farm corn and soybeans across McLean and DeWitt counties alongside Doug's father, Les. Their children, Noah and Ava, are also actively involved in the family farming operation.

Their photo shows Doug and their daughter Ava, now 17, working together on the farm when she was about four years old. It's long been one of the family's favorite photos, and this past spring they recreated it.

Behind the photo is a story of resilience. In July 2025, Angie was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. Through it all, her family kept the farm running while helping her through treatment, and one year later, she's cancer free. "My family steps up and works together, whether that's loading the planter or bringing a meal to the field for all of us to eat together," Angie said. "That's very important to me, especially this past year."

Their operation is now in its seventh generation, with grandson Will already spending time on the farm. "It's become a way of life," Angie said. "The best life!"