Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association recently held its 70th annual convention and trade show in Norman where Kingfisher resident Mike Frey was named Cattleman of the Year.

The highest honor that OCA bestows was designed to recognize OCA members who have made significant contributions to OCA and to the Oklahoma beef industry.

“Mike has given a tremendous amount of his time, energy and expertise to OCA,” said OCA President Byron Yeoman.

Frey continues to remain very active as a past president serving on the Executive Committee the past two years, Yeoman added.

“I was surprised and honored to receive the award,” Frey said.

Born and raised in Mulhall, Frey moved to Kingfisher after graduating from Oklahoma State University with an animal science degree in 1985.

Frey along, with his wife Jamae, established a registered Angus operation on a Centennial Farm, including land that was claimed by Jamae’s great-grandfather in the 1889 land run.

Frey and his family raise registered Angus cattle focusing on calving ease and carcass value in the bulls and replacement heifers and are also members of the Oklahoma Angus Association.

Involved for many years in leadership positions and varied aspects of OCA and OAA, Frey said, “I just try to do what they ask me to.”

While serving as OCA president in 2013, Frey said he had the honor of presenting his daughter, Jaryn, the Junior Cattleman of the Year award.

“It was a special moment,” he said.

In addition, this year the father and daughter duo also raised the top three selling bulls at the Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas Angus Association annual sale.

“His leadership is solid, steady and insightful, not only in OCA but also shines brightly in his home community,” said Yeoman. “Mike perfectly represents the service, integrity, honor and leadership that the OCA Cattleman of the Year embodies.”

Frey has served on one of the first Oklahoma Junior Cattlemen’s Association board of directors, as well as serving on the OCA board for many years and as president in 2011-13.

He has served on the Oklahoma Angus Association Board of Directors as well as the OSU Animal Science Alumni Association Board of Directors. He also participated in the Oklahoma Agriculture Leadership Academy in 1988 to 1990.

In Kingfisher, he is currently vice president of Banc-First, a member of Lions Club, on the Rural Water District No. 3 board and board president of the Federated Church.

Previously he has served on the Chamber of Commerce, Kingfisher hospital board and Kingfisher Development Foundation.

Frey said he not only enjoys raising cattle, but being around other cattlemen and people involved in agriculture.

Reflecting on this year’s award, Frey said, “I really appreciate the honor.”