ELKHORN — The Walworth County Fair community is mourning the death of Peggy Fraser, the longtime fairgrounds staff member who passed away earlier this week.
According to a news release from the fair board, Fraser passed away in the overnight hours between Feb. 4-5, 2024, leaving behind an enduring impact on the organization and the wider community.
Fraser first began working at the fairgrounds in 1999, and during her nearly 25-year tenure, Fraser’s dedication contributed significantly to numerous projects, committees, events and festivals, including the prestigious Walworth County Fair.
As an award-winning member of the International Association of Fairs & Expositions (IAFE), Wisconsin Association of Fairs, and the Walworth County Agricultural Society, Fraser’s contributions were invaluable.
Fraser transitioned into her role as Fairgrounds Office Manager in 2003, which encompassed a diverse range of responsibilities, from overseeing day-to-day office operations to managing annual meetings, elections and coordinating special events like the Pork Chop Cookout, Rock the Barns, Elkhorn Ribfest, Elkhorn Holiday Craft Bash, and the Original Barnyard Bargain Bonanza, among others.
Her commitment extended to managing all rental contracts, and she was a staunch supporter of various initiatives as a Walworth County Agricultural Society donor, volunteer, and advocate, according to the news release.
In addition to her managerial duties, Fraser actively participated in several committees, including Barnyard Adventure Agriculture Education, Constitution & Bylaws, Fairest of the Fair, Finance, Free Entertainment, Policy, Pork Chop Cookout, Premium Book & Exhibitor Registration, Tickets, and Vendors and Concessionaires.
Her commitment to agricultural education was evident through her involvement with the Barnyard Adventure Agriculture Education Creative Start Up Team in 2000.
Fraser’s exceptional service was recognized with the Wisconsin Association of Fairs V.I.P. Award in 2018, a testament to her outstanding dedication and leadership within the fair industry.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Frasers’s warm and kind-hearted nature endeared her to everyone who had the privilege of working with her.
Peggy was active in Walworth County ARC, and was looking forward to seeing her beloved niece, Sabrina Anne Nelson-Turner speak at this year’s event. Peggy was also a devoted member of the St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, Lake Geneva.
Peggy’s passing leaves a profound void within the entire Walworth County Fairgrounds community. However, her legacy of service, compassion, and dedication will continue to inspire us all as we remember and honor her memory.