Arthur Laxton “Ike” Eller, well known in Virginia and across the nation as a pioneer in beef cattle performance programs, passed away on Monday, Oct. 21, just weeks shy of his 91st birthday.

Eller was born on Nov. 5, 1933, in Chilhowie, Virginia, and raised on a livestock farm, where he actively participated in Virginia 4-H and FFA. He graduated in 1955 from Virginia Tech with a B.S. in animal husbandry and returned to earn his master’s degree in animal science in 1965. He was awarded a Ph.D. in animal breeding and genetics from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in 1972. 

Eller provided exceptional leadership for the livestock industry for 45 years. He served Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and Virginia Cooperative Extension as Extension animal scientist and project leader, leading the development of beef cattle performance programs in Virginia and nationally. He contributed greatly to the founding of the Beef Improvement Federation and was also a leader in the Virginia Beef Cattle Improvement Association. His expertise as an advisor in genetic improvement and performance took him abroad to Europe, South America, and Africa. 

Among his many recognitions are the American Society of Animal Science National Extension Award and the Progressive Farmer’s Man of the Year in Service to Virginia Agriculture Award.

Eller began his career as an assistant Extension agent in Tazewell County. While serving as an Extension agent in Russell County, Eller met his wife, Carolyn, of 64 years. He joined the faculty at Virginia Tech in 1960 as Extension animal scientist and beef cattle specialist, contributing to many nationally renowned beef cattle improvement programs before his retirement in 1992. After retiring, he continued to serve as Extension animal scientist emeritus and manager of the Virginia Beef Exposition.

“Dr. Eller was a true pioneer, visionary, and leader who had a profound impact on the beef industry in Virginia and beyond through his efforts in genetic improvement and performance programs,” said Scott Greiner, professor and Extension animal scientist at Virginia Tech. “He was a gifted educator and mentor to many, who was always most focused on making the lives of those around him better.” 

He was a member of the Church on Main, formerly Blacksburg Baptist Church, and served as deacon and Sunday school director and teacher as well as an avid Hokies sports fan and active Rotarian. 

His family will hold a celebration of life Sunday, Oct. 27, at 2 p.m., at The Inn at Virginia Tech, 901 Prices Fork Road in Blacksburg. A reception will follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Dr. Arthur L. Eller Jr. Scholarship, which supports students in the School of Animal Sciences at Virginia Tech. Please make checks payable to the Virginia Tech Foundation and include "Eller Scholarship – 884244" on the memo line. Gifts may be mailed to: Virginia Tech Foundation Inc., Gift Accounting 0336, 902 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061.

Members of the university community who seek support or assistance are encouraged to contact these resources:

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