Let's rodeo in dayton! Dayton Championship Rodeo Labor Day Weekend
Dayton Rodeo Grand Marshal
2026 Grand Marshal - KEVIN DIEHL
Honoring Kevin Diehl as the 2026 Dayton Rodeo Grand Marshal
The Dayton Rodeo Celebration Committee is proud to announce that Kevin Diehl has been selected as the 2026 Dayton Rodeo Grand Marshal. This honor recognizes Kevin's many years of dedicated service, unwavering support, and countless contributions to the Dayton Rodeo.
His commitment has helped preserve and strengthen this cherished community tradition, making him a deserving choice for this special recognition. We congratulate Kevin and thank him for his outstanding service to the Dayton Rodeo.
Kevin Diehl has been a proud member of the Dayton Community since 1961, when his parents purchased the Dayton Review newspaper. A member of the Dayton High School Class of 1972, Kevin continued his education at Iowa Central Community College before enlisting in the United States Army in 1973. During his service, he worked in the Army’s Criminal Investigation Division and was honorable discharged in 1975.
Upon returning to Dayton, Kevin resumed his education and began his professional career with Buckley & Busch, where he worked for ten years. Following the company’s closure during the farm crisis, Kevin demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit by founding Diehl’s of Dayton, a business specializing in the sales and service of sprayer equipment. More than 40 years later, the business continues to serve customers throughout the region.
Kevin and his wife Janis have been together for 25 years. Kevin has two daughters, Tasha and her family from South Carolina and Alicia from Wisconsin, seven grand children with one deceased and one great granddaughter. Janis has a son, Nicolas from Louisiana.
A dedicated public servant, Kevin has contributed countless hours to the betterment of Dayton. His service includes 18 years on the Dayton City Council, 10 years with the Dayton Fire Department, and active involvement with the American Legion Post 323 and the Dayton Community Club. He is perhaps best known for his role at “Captain Expo,” where he led the organization of the annual Dayton Expo for many years.
The Dayton Rodeo holds a special place in Kevin’s heart. As a young boy, he fondly remembers selling pop, popcorn, and frosty malts on the hill, then spending his earnings at the carnival on his way home. Over the years, Kevin has volunteered in many roles, including working the cook shack, assisting with parking, and serving as Dayton’s “Pyro,” overseeing the Labor Day fireworks display for the past 11 years. He also contributes his leadership as head of security for the Shed 37 Rodeo ‘After Party’.
Kevin says he loves Dayton simply because “it’s home,” and he values the strong sense of camaraderie among its residents. His message to others is heartfelt and straightforward: “Wherever you live, be involved in your community and do positive things.”
Kevin wishes everyone a happy Labor Day and hopes you enjoy the rodeo and all the festivities.
“It’s a touch of Heaven folks.”