In the summer of 2025, Latham® dealer Jason Youngkrantz faced a health challenge that stopped him in his tracks. After experiencing persistent chest pain, vision changes and unstable blood pressure, Jason was rushed to the ER, where doctors discovered a large mass in his chest and neck. Medical testing confirmed it was a schwannoma, a rare but non-cancerous tumor pressing against major arteries and affecting his daily life.
The tumor made even simple tasks — walking, holding his daughter or working on the farm — difficult, and doctors estimated Jason would be out of work for months as he pursued treatment. The physical strain was only one part of the challenge; the family also faced mounting medical bills, travel costs and financial pressure that came with extended time away from work.
To support Jason and his family during this difficult season, friends and neighbors organized a GoFundMe campaign, meals, childcare help and chores — easing day-to-day burdens so the family could focus on healing. The community’s generosity brought encouragement and strength when it was needed most.
Before this health crisis, Jason was a familiar face across western Minnesota farmland. A third-generation grower from Lake Lillian, he learned the values of hard work and rural community from his father, uncles and grandfather. As soon as he was old enough to drive, Jason was hauling corn and sugar beets — early experiences that shaped his lifelong commitment to agriculture.
He and his wife have built a small hobby farm where they’re raising their children, Hunter and Parker, with hopes of growing their operation over time. His family’s roots in farming extend back four generations with Youngkrantz Family Farms, founded by his great-grandfather Carl and later led by his grandfather Earl.
Jason first connected with Latham Seeds through social media and became a dealer to expand his agronomic knowledge and serve the growers in his community.
“The chance to learn more about seed products and support local farmers was really exciting to me,” he says.
From the beginning, Jason felt welcomed by the Latham team.
“It has been incredibly welcoming,” he says. “Having (Sales Manager Amy Rohe) and my former seed representative visit my home to help me get started showed me firsthand the supportive culture Latham strives for.”
When Jason was unable to visit customers due to his health, the Latham team stepped in. Dealer Development Lead Bryan Rohe helped by visiting customers on Jason’s behalf — a gesture that meant the world to him.
“It has meant everything,” Jason says. “Their willingness to help shows how much they go above and beyond for their dealers.”
On December 10, 2025, Jason underwent a successful surgery to remove the tumor through a single incision, avoiding more invasive procedures and giving him a hopeful path forward.
As he continues to recover, Jason looks forward to returning to the farm and reconnecting with customers.
“I’m excited to get back to the work I love,” he says.
Latham Hi-Tech Seeds is proud to support Jason Youngkrantz through challenges and triumphs. We celebrate his courage and the strength of his community.
Cheesesteak Tortellini
Equipment
- 1 pot to cook the tortellini
- 1 large skillet
- 1 spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb Beef sirloin
- 2 cloves Garlic freshly minced or garlic powder
- 1 Green bell pepper medium
- 1 Onion medium
- 12 oz Cheese tortellini
- 3 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 1 Pepper
- 1 Salt
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 3 tbsp Butter
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups Whole milk
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
- In a large skillet, sauté onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms in olive oil until tender.
- Add sliced beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the tortellini and toss to coat.
- Top with provolone, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted. And ready to serve!