East Central Reporter

Illinois is not only known for its abundant deer population and thriving hunting industry but also for its family-owned deer processing plants that have been passed down through generations. These businesses play a crucial role in providing quality meat products to families across the state.

One such family-owned business is Eickman's Processing Co. in Winnebago County. The Eickman family has been operating this meat processing plant since 1953. Over the years, the company has expanded its operations and won numerous awards for its quality meat. Today, Tom and Katie Eickman continue the family legacy by assuming ownership of the business in 2020.

In the tiny village of Sainte Marie in Jasper County, another family legacy can be found at Hartrich Meats. Started in 1953 by Harold and Lucie Hartrich, this business initially provided meat for their grocery store and offered custom processing to local farmers. Mark and Tony Hartrich took over in 1984 and expanded the business to include retail, deer processing, catering, and grill sales. Now, their sons Craig, Brian, and Daniel have joined the business, ensuring generations of experience and excellence.

Heinkel's Packing Co. in Decatur is another family-owned deer processing plant with a rich history. This business was started in 1912 by German immigrant Albert Heinkel and has been operated by the fourth generation of the family. Wes Heinkel, the current president, and Dennis Heinkel, the vice president, continue to offer a wide range of meat products, including deer processing.

Trenton Processing, located in Clinton County, was founded in 1964 by Calvin and Loretta Schwend. Although the business was sold to Cody and Sheldyn Schneider in 2022, they plan to maintain the same high standards and variety of specialty sausages and smoked items that the Schwend family established. Deer processing is also a part of their services.

J and J Meat Processing in Beecher City stands out as a truly unique family-owned business. Owner Jay Bell converted his garage into a small-scale meat processing plant, with several family members contributing to its success. Jay's wife, Judi, handles the bookkeeping, while their daughter, Dalanie, makes patties and assists with sales. Even son-in-law Jimmy Price lends a hand during deer season.

Turasky Meats, founded in Springfield in 1949, has been passed down through generations as well. Joe Turasky Sr. and his uncle, Tony Yakst, started the business, which is now owned by Joe Turasky Jr. and his son, Brad. Turasky Meats not only offers deer processing but also sells a variety of meat products. Their dedication to hard work and quality has earned them numerous awards, including the Grand Champion Snack Stick Award at the 2022 Illinois State Fair.

Behrmann Meat and Processing in Albers is another family-owned business that has been operating since 1968. Dennis and Elaine Behrmann have grown the business over the years, with a focus on producing and selling quality products. With over 50 full-time employees, Behrmann's provides custom deer processing to meet the needs of its customers.

Jones Meat and Locker in Jacksonville has a long-standing tradition of family ownership and operation since 1943. Three generations of the Jones family have prioritized customer service and offer high-quality meat processing and packaging, including deer processing.

These family-owned businesses are not the only ones in Illinois dedicated to deer processing. Other notable establishments include Korte Meat Processing and Grantfork Meats in Highland, Shirley Farms in DeSoto, Smokehouse Venison Processing in Rockford, Moweaqua Packing Plant in Moweaqua, and Triple C Meats in Anna.

Illinois takes pride in its family-owned deer processing businesses that have been passed down through generations. These businesses work hard to provide families with quality meat products and contribute to the state's rich hunting traditions.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://repcmiller.com/2023/11/16/deer-processing-in-illinois-is-family-business-from-generations/