WSTR News
Empty Saddles
Rodney Ray Dimitroff - 1941-2026
Above all else, Rodney loved his family. Watching his grandchildren was one of his favorite pastimes, and time spent with them brought him great joy. He leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and kindness, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Andrew "Jess" Gililland - 1931 - 2026
After retirement, Jess did day work for ranchers until it began interfering with his passion for team roping, a sport in which he truly excelled. Jess roped calves in his younger years but later focused on team roping. In 1997, he won $27,000 at a USTRC event, roping on two horses he trained himself. Over the years, he earned 40 buckles and nine saddles, generously giving away many of those buckles. We say goodbye to a rancher, a horseman, a father, and a keeper of a disappearing way of life. Jess is survived by his five children, nine grandchildren, and nineteen great grandchildren.
Larry Dewayne Barker - 1951-2026
Larry was a devoted friend and family man. He had relentless passion for whatever came his way and believed that if you were going to do something you should do it right, and big. He never turned people away and was always available if you needed help, encouragement, or someone to believe in you. Larry personified the idea that “What you do for yourself dies with you when you leave this world. What you do for others’ lives on forever.”
Cecil Alvin Nichol - 1934- 2026
Cecil's enduring spirit and love for life were evident in every endeavor; age never hindered him in any way. He was a man who transcended generations, finding joy on the back of a horse and in the company of those he loved. Cecil's legacy of resilience, humor, and dedication will forever be cherished by his family and friends.
Shryl Schneemann Cooper - 1955-2025
On December 1, Shryl passed away surrounded by her loving family. Jill shared that her mom is now at home with Jesus. The rodeo community is mourning as Shryl was "home' to many and acted as the "supermom" to anyone she welcomed to her home.
Jim Nichols - 1951- 2025
Jim was a storyteller and a lover of life. If you were around him very long you would see his face light up with a smile and a glimmer in his eye while telling one of his favorite stories. His laugh made you smile and he was never short of a greeting for everyone he met. There was never a question whether he was a cowboy or how much he loved the sport of rodeo.
Don Kimble - 1950-2025
“I would like to be remembered as a person who treated other people jut like he would like to be treated, and that his word was always good. If your word and handshake aren’t good, there are no contracts to make up for that anyway.”
Joseph Dell Millward - 1969-2025
He was respected in the Equine community for his horse shoeing abilities, team roping and work with horses. He was fiercely loyal, genuinely concerned and uncommonly thoughtful to his many friends. He was respectful and congenial to all who knew him in business or as an acquaintance. His greatest joy and focus in life were his two beautiful daughters.
Thomas Edward Braman - 1986-2025
While he loved fishing, hunting and rodeoing, nothing compared to the love he held for his two children, Isabella Grace Braman and Braylen Hawes Braman. They were the center of his world, and he treasured every moment spent with them. He was incredibly proud of them, and he cherished getting to teach them all about the things that were special to him.
Christopher "Cole" Sealy - 1970-2025
A graduate of Southwest Texas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness, Cole poured his energy into the cowboy way of life. He was a talented team roper, an FFA Lone Star Farmer, and served as Vice President of the Texas High School Rodeo Association. Rodeo, agriculture, and faith weren’t just hobbies for Cole—they were a way of life.
George "Pete" Zanetti- 1939-2025
Longtime team roper and horse-trailer guru George "Pete" Zanetti passed away on July 30, 2025. He was 86. Pete was born in Victorville, Calif., to Anthony and Pearl Zanetti and grew up working in their donut shop, the Desert Maid Bakery. He began riding horses at a very young age with his father, picking up a rope when he was 9 years old and only putting it down a few years ago.
Chris Glover - 1960-2025
Chris team roped all his life, and qualified for three National Finals Steer Ropings in 2016, ’18 and ’19—his first at age 56. Glover also was a five-time National Circuit Finals Steer Roping contestant in 2010-11, 2015-17 from the Mountain States Circuit. He won that last NCFSR in Torrington, Wyoming in 2017. “Chris loved his family, and he never met a stranger,” JoJo LeMond said. “He had great morals, and respect for people and the land. He was just dang right a good man. He also loved to have fun, and we had a lot of it. I don’t know that I ever saw him in a bad mood. A couple minutes after a bad run, it was washed away. Chris was about 20 years older than me, but we got along perfect."
John Max Robertson, Jr. - 1981-2025
John was born on October 6, 1981, in Burlingame, California, to John Max Robertson, Sr. and Jenine Ann Robertson. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior later in life and lived life with his faith. John will be fondly remembered for his kindness, generous spirit, and larger-than-life smile. He had been a proud member of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, the American Cowboy Team Roping Association, and the World Series of Team Roping. He lived life to the fullest on the back of a horse and will be remembered for his deep love for family and passion for all things Cowboy and Rodeo.
Ralph "Thunder" Maynard - 1944-2025
Ralph, the youngest of four children grew up on a ranch near Dupree, S.D. Growing up, Ralph and his two brothers and many great friends grew up ranching and hunting. Some of Ralph’s greatest childhood stores include his beloved South Dakota friends who became family for life. As Ralph’s rodeo career took him to the National Finals Rodeo four times in Oklahoma City, OK, he met the most amazing families and friends across the country. Some of the greatest cowboys of all time were Ralph’s closest friends. Ralph stayed in touch with his friends from across the rodeo trail throughout his life.
Thomas Clorine Farwell - 1940-2024
Thomas was an amazing Horseman, roper, and won many Buckles and Saddles. He also was a Jeep Racer and won many times at that as well. He did field Trial and was a great dog trainer. He was a great Hunter, and one of the best brick Layers(mason) ever. He loved life!
Tutt Garnett - 1952- 2025
Garnett, who was from Matador, Texas, worked his way up the rodeo ranks, winning the American Junior Rodeo Association regional championships in calf roping and all-around. He went on to compete at Western Texas College in Snyder and Eastern New Mexico University in Portales. Garnett joined the PRCA in 1976. Initially he competed in all four timed-events – steer wrestling, team roping, tie-down roping and steer roping. "Rodeo has been part of my life since I was about 5 years old," Garnett said in the 1992 PRCA Media Guide. "I learned the basics by working with my dad on the Matador Ranch. I really love rodeo."
David S Brown - 1946-2025
There are few people who touched the world of team roping, specifically in California, like David S. Brown. Born on March 16, 1946, and making his final ride on February 9, 2025, after a private eight-month battle with Myelodysplastic Syndrome, David will forever be remembered as a big, kind man who loved life and loved people. While many ropers knew him as the man behind the California $hootouts, he was so much more than that. David S. Brown was an advocate, a competitor, a teacher, and a friend.
Delbertine Hurley (Della) Greenwood 1926-2025
Although Della was a “city girl,” she adapted to ranch life. She learned to ride and was, for a time, the only help Hart had. She taught her daughters how to ride by carrying them on a pillow in front of her while she and Hart worked cattle. When the girls and then their son, Trey, were old enough to replace her as cowhands, she stopped riding and perfected her ranch cooking. Her branding dinners were renowned. She learned the ranching business and spent many hours “conjecturing” about which cows to sell and which to keep.
Jack "Bubby" Bebo - 1942-2025
Throughout his life he enjoyed golfing, team roping, reading fiction novels, going to coffee and of course, dancing. He loved his family fiercely and served his country in Viet Nam. He was extremely kind, he loved to laugh, he was always willing to lend a helping hand and he never met a stranger. But most of all, he had an extraordinary heart (both literally and figuratively).
Melvin "Mel" O. Potter- 1935-2025
Mel’s rodeo repertoire also included the role of stock contractor with his Rodeos Inc. The outfit owned four straight Saddle Broncs of the NFR in Tea Trader (1966), Sheep Mountain (1967), and Major Reno (1968-69). Mel started roping when he was 13, and loved it for 70 years. Even having the shoulder on his roping arm replaced couldn’t stop him. Father Time finally told him it was time to hang up his ropes, but Mel followed the cowboy sport with his last breath and truly loved it. Mel roped at his last Great Lakes Circuit Finals when he was 75 in 2010. Always a consummate competitor, he won his last team roping check 10 years ago at 80. Mel’s rodeo accolades are many, and in addition to being inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs as a rodeo notable in 2022, he was honored at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City with induction and the prestigious Ben Johnson Memorial Award in 2005. Potter was inducted into the Cheyenne Frontier Days Hall of
Basil Anthony “Bucky” Nastri Jr. 1956-2025
Bucky was a natural born cowboy! Bucky was a calf roper and a fantastic team roper. He was a champion of the Pro Rodeo Cowboy Association, World Series and USTRC Team Ropers and Dodge National Rodeo Circuit finals qualifier. Bucky was loved by so many around the country for his loyalty, friendship and great sense of humor! He was the life of the party! Bucky will be greatly missed by all!
Talaura "TR" Frost- 2001-2024
Talented in the art of team roping, Talaura served as the team roping director alongside her dad, she was the AZ High School Rodeo president, sharing countless memorable moments in the arena. Despite receiving a Rodeo scholarship, she made the transformative decision to pursue her dream in equine dentistry, a testament to her dedication and love for horses. In addition to her passion for horses, Talaura had a heart of gold, especially for animals. She adored dogs too, with a special bond to her emotional support dachshund, "Biscuit." Her love for animals extended to the countless stray dogs she wished to rescue, embodying her compassionate spirit. "Can we keep it?, we need it, it's Biscuits brother! The only thing she loved more was her fiancé, Brandon and the sweet baby boy they were expecting in May.
Perri Vicente Sanchez- 1965-2024
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of Perri Vicente Sanchez of Belen, New Mexico, who passed away on December 22, 2024, at the age of 59, leaving to mourn family and friends.
Bill Wineman - 1953-2024
He was a member of numerous team roping associations, The Santa Maria Elks, and The Vaqueros. He was an avid hunter who loved for Deb to get her buck first. He was a very kind and gentle soul.
Billy Gene "Bubba" Wilson Jr. - 1952-2024
He was a Cowboy Heritage Church of Clyde member and competed in several Team Roping Associations. Over the years, Bubba worked on many ranches. He lived a life that many would consider that of a true cowboy. Bubba would tell folks he was a “horse rider,”:- adding that he would “ride a horse until it gave up!”
Jonathan David Coe- 1953-2024
During his lifetime, he was a Senior Pastor, successful executive, small business owner, teacher, coach, rancher, avid team roper and beloved husband. The only thing Jon was more passionate about than roping and basketball, was Jesus. Jon gave his life to the Lord early as a child and spent virtually all of his life in some type of ministry. He spent many years as a youth pastor before becoming a Church Pastor.
KR "Popeye" Boultinghouse - 1938-2024
Popeye was lucky enough to have 3 beautiful girls with his first wife, Charlotte. Then he spent 55 years with Jan Yates Boultinghouse where he was blessed with another beautiful daughter and son. He decided to become a team roper at the age of 37. He soon became known for his "one swing" and having an eye for talented horses. He made many lifelong friends that he cherished in the rodeo world. He loved to teach and helped anyone willing to work at roping. He and Jan opened their home to many aspiring team ropers, with several of them becoming World Champions, and many more were National Finals Rodeo qualifiers.
Alice JoeAnn Branquinho - 1943-2024
Always an entrepreneur and successful business woman, she had many different ventures but was a saleswoman at heart. A cattlewoman, a cowgirl and competitive team roper, she loved hunting and the outdoors. She was an excellent cook and all who knew her have memories of the wonderful meals we shared. She was a true friend to so many and will be greatly missed.
Frank A. DuBois - 1947- 2024
Frank was an avid team roper. Winning 4 trophy saddles, 7 buckles, and a hay barn before Multiple Sclerosis took his favorite hobby from him. He decided to focus on supporting rodeo athletes. He was the driving force behind the first rodeo coaching position at NMSU and helped raise money for rodeo scholarships. His heritage will carry on through the NMSU rodeo program and his cherished DuBois Award winners. Frank adored and greatly missed his wife Sharon, who lost her battle with cancer in 2020. She was always his biggest supporter. Sharon devoted her love and time to stand by Frank through his toughest hours. They loved to dance and couldn’t resist a good waltz. Frank, the true romantic he was, decided to join his wife on her birthday.
Lynden Boyd Williams - 1952-2024
Lynden Boyd Williams, 72, of Blackfoot, Idaho passed away on Sunday, October 6th, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family and dear friends. He was taught the "Ranch Life" and fell in love with it. He loved horses and all that went with them. He had a good eye for finding both cattle and horses. He learned the occupation of buying and selling dairy cows and created a very profitable business. This allowed him to pursue his greatest love, team roping. He was able to excel in this sport and won many saddles, belt buckles, and monetary prizes. His love of this led him to spend several winters in Arizona where he could continue team roping year-round.
Dwayne "Buster" Wilcox - 1980-2024
Dwayne "Buster" Wilcox age, 44, a resident of Belen, New Mexico, and originally from Grants, New Mexico, passed away on September 10, 2024. Buster possessed an infectious personality. He never met a stranger and always had a smile and a joke. His love for his family was strong and had no bounds.
Tyrel Campbell 1982-2024
In early 2020, Tyrel and Stormi moved their family to Graham. At that time, he worked in the oil and gas industry, which often forced him to travel for work. Undeterred, Ty continued to nurture his lifetime goal and roped every opportunity he could. In 2021, Tyrel and his cousin Mac finally qualified for the World Series Finale. That December, the pair went to Las Vegas and won the #8.5! Tyrel transitioned from working in the West Texas oilfield in 2023, when he started a land management company, enabling him to spend more time with his beloved family. Tyrel and Stormi worked together to build Lochland Farm & Ranch Solutions, strengthening their partnership and family bond.Tyrel's passion for life followed him wherever he went. His honesty, work ethic, and humor brought the best out of those around him. Because of this endearing quality, Ty made friends quickly and all over Texas.
Sid Cooley 1951-2024
Sid Cooley, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, and lifelong team roper, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born and raised in Mesa, Arizona, he lived a life full of adventure, love, hard work, and devotion to his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of integrity, prosperity, tender-heartedness, and an unyielding love for his family. His laughter, wisdom, and the many stories will forever live on within his loved ones. “It’s not about the rope; it’s about the ride.” His ride here on earth may be over, but his legacy will continue through the love he gave, the joy he brought, the comfort he provided, and the lessons he taught.
Ned Tietjen - 1944-2024
A man of deep faith, Ned lived a life of service and always put the needs of others before his own. He was the embodiment of encouragement, support, and kindness, uplifting everyone he met. Ned left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him. His smile, warmth, and loving spirit were a light to all who crossed his path. He had a remarkable ability to connect with people, often through his wonderful sense of humor. Those who knew him all have their own treasured memories and funny stories of time spent together. An accomplished horseman and cowboy, Ned was passionate about roping, rodeo, and spending time with his horses and dogs.
Christian Robert Pettigrew- 1991-2024
Christian Robert Pettigrew, 33 a lifelong resident and rancher in Fort Sumner passed away Thursday, August 22, 2024 in an accident. He was born March 29, 1991 in Albuquerque, NM to the home of Mike and Laurie (Biglow) Pettigrew. He grew up on the family ranch north of Fort Sumner. He graduated from Fort Sumner High School in 2009 where he was active in football, basketball, 4-H, FFA, and Rodeo. He attended ENMU and graduated with is Bachelor's Degree.
Randal "Randy" Lynn Crump - 1968-2024
Team roping was Randy’s life. He would rope with anyone, anywhere, any time and any age. He was a winner and has many buckles and saddles to show for it, but would give them away in a heartbeat. He enjoyed ranch rodeos, fishing and watching any kind of sport he could get on TV. In addition to all of his rodeo activities, he loved spending time with his family, especially his grandkids. He was a protector, loving, the best hug giver, a man with the biggest heart, and he loved to tell jokes and stories.
Ace Ashford (2006-2024)
Born Feb. 1, 2006, Ace was the son of Troy Ashford and Jamie Ashford of Lott. Already an accomplished roper, Ace was the 2023 Riata Buckle #10.5 Jr. Champion Header with Jade Philipp and 2024 Patriot #11.5 All Ages Champion Header with Ryder Davis. He attended Rosebud-Lott High School and was set to rodeo for Hill College in Hillsboro, Texas, this fall.
Gary Eugene Hammond 1956-2024
Apart from being a talented professional, Gary was also known for his larger-than-life personality. He was a "Big family Man," deeply devoted to his loved ones and always ready to lend a helping hand whenever needed. As a father he was a force to be reckoned with a tough but loving presence who instilled in his children a sense of resilience, independence, and a healthy dose of sarcasm. His warm heart and kind spirit endeared him to all who knew him. He was never one to mince words or sugarcoat the truth, but his tough love was always tempered with unwavering support and loyalty. In his leisure time, Gary found joy in simple yet meaningful activities such as Team Roping, Hunting, and Fishing, with a fearless spirit and a keen eye for adventure.
Dr. Bronson K. Springstead, D.V.M. 1936-2024
Born and raised in Gallup, New Mexico Bronson became an accomplished horseman at an early age. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1955-1959 and attended Ft. Lewis College and finished pre-veterinary courses at Oklahoma State University where he met his wife, Karen. Dr. Springstead completed his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) from Colorado State University in 1967. His love for horses guided him toward a career in equine medicine. He opened and operated Zia Equine Center in Albuquerque, NM for over 30 years. Dr. Springstead’s deep understanding of equine physiology, coupled with his intuitive, hands-on approach, earned him the trust and respect of horse owners, trainers, breeders and veterinary colleagues throughout the country and beyond.
Michael (Mike) Lee Meads (1970-2024)
Mike moved to Hermiston, Oregon in grade school where he was active and successful in 4-H showing horses, dogs, and livestock. Mike's love of horsemanship continued through high school where he excelled on his high school rodeo team in the team roping and calf roping events. Mike cherished helping youth in agriculture and later in life followed his Mom's footsteps and became a 4-H leader for Badger Canyon Livestock 4-H Club. He adored each and every one of his members and was always ready to jump in and help. Seeing youth succeed was important to Mike. He was eager to help organize youth leadership events in agriculture whenever he was asked. Mike's successful career in the agriculture field began at McGregor, he went on to Wilbur Ellis then Pioneer Implement which was acquired by RDO Equipment in 2003. Above all, Mike treasured family and was never afraid to let others know how proud he was of each and every one of them.
