The Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association extends its deepest sympathies to the family and friends of H. Cecil Lovdahl, a former IFCA Board Chairman and longtime member of Illinois’ agricultural community, who passed away peacefully on September 10, 2026, at the age of 87.

Cecil served on the IFCA Board of Directors and was elected Board Chairman in 1979. His tenure marked an important point in the Association’s history, as Cecil was the first leader to hold the title of “Chairman,” with those serving in the role before him having been referred to as President.

A lifelong resident of the Monmouth area, Cecil graduated from Monmouth High School in 1957 and went on to serve four years in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he returned home and eventually entered the grain business. In 1972, Cecil and his brother Jim purchased Monmouth Grain & Dryer, which Cecil remained involved with until his retirement in 2006.

In addition to his service to IFCA, Cecil was deeply involved in his community and Illinois agriculture. He was active with the Illinois Grain and Feed Association and served numerous community organizations, including the Warren County Prime Beef Festival, Lake Warren, the Monmouth Chamber of Commerce and First Lutheran Church of Monmouth.

Those who served on IFCA's Board throughout the Association's history helped build the organization and agricultural industry we represent today. We are grateful for Cecil's leadership and service to IFCA and for his many years of commitment to Illinois agriculture.

IFCA extends our sincere condolences to Cecil's wife, Janet, his family, friends and all those who knew and worked alongside him. We are grateful for his service and proud to remember his place in IFCA's history.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 15, at First Lutheran Church of Monmouth, with visitation from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on Monday, September 14, at McGuire & Davies Funeral Home and Crematory in Monmouth.

View H. Cecil Lovdahl's full obituary and service information