Submitted photo

In honor of their years of service, Greg and Shirley Beaubien were selected as grand marshals of the 2021 Harney County Fair and Rodeo. 

Congratulations to the 2021 Harney County Fair and Rodeo Grand Marshals, Greg and Shirley Beaubien.

Greg graduated from North Farmington High School in Farmington, Mich. in 1972. Within a week of graduation, Greg and his parents, Harold and Laura Beaubien, moved to Drewsey from the farm they owned in Michigan.

Greg helped his folks at the ranch, before going to work for a construction company out of Lakeview that was building roads in the Drewsey area.

Greg went on to work for Bob Otley Logging and Construction for 12 years before taking a job at Williams Aircraft Painting and Auto Body. 

In 1995, Greg proudly bought his own log truck and started hauling logs, belly dump, and hay.

Greg met Shirley (Dunten) in 1972, and they were married in 1975. 

Shirley was born and raised in Harney County. Her parents were Floyd and Della Myrtle Dunten from Drewsey.  

Shirley graduated from Crane Union High School in 1973. She was involved with the Drewsey Grange, Pomona Grange, and State and National Grange, holding an office in each.

Greg and Shirley have three children, 11 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild, who all live in the Burns area.

Shirley served as a volunteer for many years before becoming a Harney County Fair director in 1993. She was a director through 2004, serving as the co-chair of open class exhibits. 

Shirley was appointed to the Harney County Fair Board in 2005, and she held that position through 2011, serving as the chair of open class exhibits.

Throughout all those years, Greg was right by Shirley’s side — building fence in front of the grandstands, helping build accessible seating in the grandstands, bar tending, and assisting with whatever else was needed. 

The Beaubiens both worked on other fair projects throughout the year, including building benches for previous grand marshals.

Greg and Shirley’s children also volunteered during the fair and participated in 4-H programs. At times, Greg and Shirley led the 4-H groups.

Greg and Shirley, married 46 years, are now both retired, but still enjoy volunteering their time to make a successful fair. They also enjoy spending time with their children and grandchildren, camping, and hunting.

Please join us in congratulating the Beaubiens on a well-deserved honor!