🐄 The History of Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy-the proud home of the milk behind Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese

From a humble herd to Wisconsin’s largest family-owned dairy farm.

Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy isn’t just where the milk comes from — it’s where the story begins.

Founded on a deep love for farming and a vision for excellence, Pagel’s Ponderosa grew from modest beginnings into one of Wisconsin’s most respected and innovative dairy operations. Through hard work, family values, and a commitment to quality, it became the heart of what fuels Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese today.

---

🌱 Humble Beginnings in Kewaunee

The story starts in Kewaunee, Wisconsin, where John T. Pagel, a second-generation farmer, decided to forge his own path. With just 50 cows, a strong work ethic, and a deep belief in doing things the right way, John laid the foundation for something special.

From the very beginning, it wasn’t just about growing a herd — it was about building a legacy.

---

🚜 A Vision for Growth

John’s drive to improve every part of the dairy led to steady expansion. He invested in sustainable practices, animal welfare, and state-of-the-art technology, all while keeping the operation firmly rooted in family values.

Over time, what started as a small farm grew to become Wisconsin’s largest family-owned dairy, caring for thousands of cows and producing high-quality milk that would go on to fuel award-winning cheeses.

But even as the farm grew, its mission stayed the same: quality milk from healthy cows, raised with care.

---

🧀 From Milk to Cheese: The Birth of a Farmstead Legacy

With a passion for innovation and authenticity, John launched a farmstead cheesemaking operation — ensuring that the milk produced on the farm was transformed into cheese right there on site. This allowed for complete control over freshness, traceability, and quality.

One of the first products to emerge from this was Snow Cheddar — a naturally white cheddar crafted without dyes, offering clean flavor and smooth texture. It became a signature item and a favorite among customers.

---

🧡 A Family Business, A Lasting Legacy

Though John’s life was tragically cut short in 2018, his legacy continues through his family and team, who carry on the mission he believed in so deeply: to farm with integrity, create products with pride, and make a difference in their community.

Today, Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy remains a family-run operation and the proud home of the milk behind Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese — from curds and cheddar to the iconic Snow Cheddar.

---

🐮 Why It Matters

When you choose cheese from Ron’s, you’re not just buying a product. You’re supporting a multi-generational Wisconsin dairy farm that believes in sustainability, craftsmanship, and real connections — from cow to customer.

---

Want to taste the story?
🛒 [Shop Our Cheese]

---

From our family farm in Wisconsin to your table—thanks for supporting small-batch, farmstead cheese made the right way!

Ron’s Wisconsin Cheese

Farm Fresh. Handcrafted.Farmstead Cheese.