service, and better living. I am proud to continue implementing the value he taught me in my daily life, and so excited to see what impact he has on our future leaders from the hard work he has put in over the years. PALLAS’ FRIENDS EXPRESSED THEIR RESPECT AND ADMIRATION FOR HIM AND OFFERED THEIR OPINIONS ON HIS IMPACT. Tony Long , a 4-H club leader in a neighboring county said, “He was always there for the boys with an iron fist, big heart, and soft shoulder. He always explained to the boys the task at hand, how to do it and why. He was always so helpful to everyone at a show, and he instilled that in the youth he hauled with him. I recall many times, when we would be waiting in line for a summer show, and he would go buy the gate person a cold drink. He’s the kindest, most selfless person I’ve ever met. He led by example to everyone,” continued, Long, “Mike leads from the front when there’s a task.” Joel Sacks , a longtime member with the Ponca Hills Volunteer Fire Department said, “Mike has provided not just manpower for the firehouse but has served as our business manager for many years and is the
best at it. He managed our BBQ fundraiser for close to 20 years and regardless of the job, he was there doing his part and more. He has the strongest work ethic.” Don Scholting , a local businessman and supporter of the home’s show program, described Pallas as honest, hardworking, and dedicated. “I saw what he was doing in the program and wanted to support his efforts. I told him, ‘I can’t do what you do, but I can help you do it.’ He gave these kids someone to look up to and stability. He made a difference no doubt. I would say that 99 percent of the boys that were influenced by him went on to be successful. And I would say most of them had never been exposed to agriculture till Mike introduced them to it. I’m proud to call him a friend and anyone who has ever worked with him looks up to him,” he concluded. Wayne Ruff says he and Pallas have been friends for almost 40 years. “I first met Mike when we were building a barn for the farm. It was easy to see he had the boys’ respect and he gained it by instilling discipline and giving them tough love. He never yelled or screamed at them but challenged them. We became good friends and have been hunting buddies since
1987-1988. He is as honest as the day is long, hard working and an amazing family man.” Steve Probst , a business associate, and friend. “I own Northwest Feed & Grain and have for 40 years. The Omaha Boys Home has been our customer, so Mike and I have grown up doing business together in a sense. He is unique—he knows the agricultural and livestock side of the business and he mentored the boys so well. He was a perfect fit for the job and a real difference maker in their lives,” he said. Courtney Scholting , a fellow exhibitor to the boys of the Valley View 4-H Club. “I competed many years against the boys and the one thing that stands out in my memory is how Mike had instilled in them to be helpful. We could count on those boys to help us unload if they were there before us, if we needed anything or help at any time, one of them would assist. He just taught them so much beyond the show ring. They knew what Mike expected of them and I don’t remember them ever letting him down. He is an encourager and a special person to me.” ■
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