Duane “Chub” Klein

Duane “Chub” Klein was born in Buffalo County, Nebraska, where he grew up working in his family’s farming and ranching operation. His introduction to cattle feeding began at age 16, when he secured a loan to purchase heifers at 54 cents in 1973, only to sell them for 34 cents during the market downturn of 1974. This early setback underscored the need to supplement his passion for cattle with an additional enterprise, leading him to begin selling feed throughout his high school years within his local community.

Following college and a two-year tenure at Lewis Feedlot, Chub resumed his career in sales with Lextron Animal Health, now known as Animal Health International. After four years as a field salesperson, he transitioned into leadership roles. Over the next four decades, he managed financial operations, personnel and nationwide growth within animal health and their micro machine business. His 46-year career with the same organization is uncommon in today’s professional landscape, yet he regards it as a privilege—one that has allowed him to contribute to an industry he values deeply by supporting innovation, operational efficiency and resource accessibility for cattle feeders across the nation.

Chub’s extensive experience made him a natural choice for service within the Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame. At the request of Jim Miles, he joined the nomination committee in 2016, and subsequently accepted a position on the board of directors. Since that time, he has devoted significant efforts to securing sponsorships and collaborating with fellow board, nomination and steering committee members to ensure the continued success and integrity of this very important organization and the recognition it gives the leaders within the cattle feeding industry. 

Chub and his wife of 42 years, Deb, reside in Nebraska with their three children—Desiree (Tyler), Dawn (Ben) and Dustin (Gentry)—and seven grandchildren.