A Family Legacy Built with Responsibility, Innovation, and Respect.
Dedicated to thoughtful, responsible, and forward-thinking farming.
Built over generations, our work reflects a deep respect for the land, the animals in our care, and the people who make agriculture possible.
Through strong partnerships and a commitment to professional standards, we continue to grow while staying true to the values that shaped our beginnings. Today, we are proud to serve our partners, communities, and future generations by advancing agriculture with integrity and purpose.
"Sometimes you have to look back to move forward."
When this is read 20, 50 or even 100 years from now, I hope they will say they came from a wonderful background of Americans who believed in the future. I hope they understand that success does not come without a price. Cooperate and be a team member, we are all in this together. Life has taught me there are still a lot of people, places and things we can trust. Be patriotic Americans and trust in God, we owe him praise every day. Life on earth is short compared to eternity."
- Pauline Irsik
Our Story
1931
Early Farming
Steve Irsik Sr. was the second born into a family of nine children. His parents traveled throughout western and central Kansas trying desperately to earn a living working the land. Growing up with very little, Steve Sr. never complained of hard times or hard work.
1932
Dust Bowl Drought
The Dust Bowl drought of the 30’s changed farming forever. After another dust storm had blackened the sky, broke and without options, Lawrence and Minnie Irsik saw little to gain from Southwest Kansas. Loading their 9 children in their Model A truck and car they returned to Central Kansas.
1937
Pauline Graduates
Pauline’s graduation picture from Dodge City Community College, the first class to graduate from this school. With her teaching certificate and seven students, she earned $60 a month at Royal Country School.
1941
Irsik Farm Begins
Stephen J. Irsik and his brother Norbert worked with the Federal Land Bank to purchase 430 acres in Gray County for the sum of $7,200. The price was just slightly over $17 an acre. Within a few years, the brothers would divide the farmland and operate separately
1943
Second World War
Steve Sr. enlists to fight in the country’s Second World War. Stationed in Texas, then later in the South Pacific, Steve was proud to serve his country, but had little to say about the politics of war and about his time away from home.
1944
Doing Her Part
While Steve was away, Pauline worked in the supply department at the Dodge City airbase during part of World War II. She was one of many women who worked in what was traditionally a man’s job, during wartime.
1946
Wedding Bells
Steve returns from WWII, ready to begin his new life with Pauline. He was anxious to resume his role on the farm and to plan for the future. Their wedding was a simple, traditional ceremony at the St. Stanislaus Church in Ingalls, Kansas and followed with a family dinner at Paulines parents home in Howell, KS.
1947
First Home
Steve and Pauline's first home was a humble two-bedroom with a stove for heat and no electricity. After years of thoughtful growth and renovations, the home remains the headquarters of Irsik Farms Inc. and a fond gathering space for family, friends, and business associates.
1952
Expanding The Farm
Steve Sr. bought a piece of land that had only the second irrigation well in Southwest Kansas. Soon to become widespread in Central and Southwest Kansas, irrigated farming enhanced the yields and supplemented the crops when weather was adverse.
1961
Irsik and Doll
Steve Sr. was one of the original founders of Irsik and Doll. Privately held commercial cattle feeding business that has expanded to feed customer cattle and grain production storage. The original lot in Ingalls, Kansas, fed 2000 head of cattle; today, it has grown to 7 feed lots and 6 grain elevators across Kansas and ranks among the largest in the world.
L to R. Steve Irsik Sr., Clarence Irsik, Fred Doll, Loren Doll, Norb Irsik
1963
Five Sons
The proudest of Steve and Pauline's accomplishments are their five sons. The five brothers worked alongside their parents in the early years of the farming business. The brothers remain heavily involved in the business, serving on the Board of Directors in various capacities.
Left to right: Steve Jr., Mike, Ron, Max, Bob
1980
Irsik Ranch
The operation has expanded to include native pasture and farmland supporting a black Angus cow-calf herd in Kansas and Nebraska.
1999
Stephen J. Irsik 1915-1999
Our patriarch passed away while enjoying one of his favourite pastimes, playing cards with good friends. His passing was unexpected as Steve and Pauline prepared to celebrate 53 years of marriage. His lessons in business and life remain.
2000
Royal Farms Dairy
The synergy of fruitful crop production and a healthy water supply, the business invests to grow the first of two dairies in Kansas. Water preservation, community involvement and a large employee family is something we are very proud to be a part of.
2011
Apache Ranch
A second ranch is added to conserve native grass during drought-stricken periods, allowing the business to continue growing and maturing the cow-calf operation.
2014
Noble Dairy
The second Dairy is purchased. The close proximity to Royal Farms supports cohesive management practices and continued excellence in Dairy production.
2021
Pauline Irsik 1916-2021
Our matriarch was an inspiration with her strong faith, high expectations, and patriotic character.
"Be patriotic Americans and trust in the Lord." She passed shortly before her 105th birthday and left her family with many words of wisdom and quotes to live by.
From Humble Beginings
Our founders' vision created the foundation on which Irsik Farms stands today. Their legacy lives on in every decision we make, every service we provide, and every relationship we build.
