The Sweet Secret Behind a Dairy Farm’s Diversified Success
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On the county line between Sheboygan and Manitowoc counties in Wisconsin lies Vandoske Dairy Farms. Bob and Tara Vandoske, along with their children, Brianne, Reid and Brooklyn, represent the third generation of their family to run the dairy.
Established in 1945 by Bob’s grandparents, Rueben and Roma Vandoske, the herd has expanded from their start with 18 cows to a herd of 600 registered Holsteins, with 1,100 acres in operation. In addition to dairy farming, the Vandoskes run a successful dog boarding facility, a show barn and boarding business, and they recently opened Vandoske’s Countyline Creamery, a retail ice cream shop.
From humble beginnings, Bob and Tara have embraced the value of hard work.
“My dad always said, ‘Take care of the cows, and the cows take care of you, and then the more successful you’ll be,’” notes Bob.
All In the Family
The family legacy is a source of pride for everyone.
“I think what we’d like to be known for is being a small dairy family that grew into something big,” says Brianne. “When the farm transitioned to my grandparents and dad, there were a small number of cows and a couple of chickens. I’ve watched my grandpa and dad build the farm into what it is today.”
The Vandoskes have been Farm Credit clients for over 15 years, relying on their relationship with Compeer Financial for guidance on business decisions.
“Working with clients like Bob and Tara is simply, easy,” says Jay Retzer, senior animal ag lending specialist at Compeer. “They’re always looking for what’s next and what will be sustainable for the farm today and for the next generation.”
Diversifying Into Dairy Delicacies
When the family decided they wanted to expand in less conventional ways, the Compeer dairy team was ready to find customized financing and crop and livestock insurance that worked for their dreams.
“Bob’s vision isn’t to solely focus on herd expansion – it’s to find ways to diversify their business model with systems already in place – like their genetics, boarding and now their farm retail store and ice cream shop,” notes Retzer.
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With financing from Compeer, the family opened Vandoske’s Countyline Creamery in June 2024, where they serve farm-fresh ice cream flavors, soda, milk and other dairy delicacies. Though the entire family is involved, Tara manages the shop’s daily operations.
“We hope consumers get more used to seeing what farm-to-table or, in our case, farm-to-freezer, looks like,” says Tara.
Customers can enjoy their ice cream near large windows with views of the show barn and cows, watching as the Vandoske team milks and does barn chores.
“Every dairy producer has a different vision for their business and has different needs,” Retzer says. ”That’s why our team of financial officers and dairy specialists enjoy working with families like and Vandoskes and acting as trusted advisors to help them make sound decisions.”
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As the Vandoske family developed the idea for a retail shop, building the show and boarding facility next door was a no-brainer. Preparing for dairy shows is a yearlong effort with the kids fully immersed in the spring and continue through the fall.
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The Vandoske children are active in the dairy, each handling their own chores. Brianne, the eldest, manages multiple roles, primarily working with the farm’s calf program and her show heifers, and helping in the creamery and kennel when needed. Reid assists with chores and milking in the show barn each morning before working with his show heifers. Brooklyn lives for spring and summer show season, diligently working with her heifers to ensure they’re in top show shape.
From the show ring to the milking parlor to the creamery, the Vandoskes do it all with smiles on their faces.
See how Compeer’s broad range of customized financial products and services can help your farm achieve its unique dreams too. Reach out to our team of dairy specialists for guidance and resources to help you remain competitive. And don’t forget about crop and dairy insurance – which can protect your investments and provide peace of mind.