Gene and Cordella LaRoe

Gene and Cordella LaRoe, a husband and wife team that have volunteered for Lake County 4-H since 1970, have been elected to the Florida 4-H Hall of Fame.  The LaRoe’s were part of a group of five individuals that were inducted in 2007 at ceremonies held on July 26th at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

The LaRoe’s continuous involvement with 4-H began as they were Lake County 4-H members: Gene was a member in Eustis; Cordella, in Tavares.  Each won a trip to 4-H National Congress and were active members practically their entire childhood.

After their graduation and marriage, they became 4-H leaders first in Alachua County, then Manatee and then finally back in Lake County.  Gene was influential in starting the Shooting Sports program in Lake County and continues his involvement of time and finances as this project area grows. 

Cordella is recognized most for her teaching skills, especially in the clothing construction projects.  Many 4-H’ers learned to sew under her care.

Their current 4-H involvement continues at many different levels.  The LaRoe’s are working to make the newly organized Lake County 4-H Foundation a success.  Both are still involved with teaching youth in shooting sports and clothing projects as well as judging for various county programs. This couple is the epitome of lifelong 4-H volunteers.

The three other 2007 inductees are: Dr. E.T. York of Alachua County; Mrs. Marilyn Halusky of Duval County; and Mr. Robert Renner of Marion County.

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