Photo in William Champion's Guest Book, published in The Gazette.
I grew up in Delhi, a small farming town in California’s central valley. Many of the older residents moved to Delhi during the dust bowl era from the old “Wild West” states of Oklahoma , Texas, and Kansas. And maybe that’s part of the reason all of the farmers in town wore cowboy hats and boots. Some people think of guns, wild horses, and outlaws when they think of cowboys. But in my childhood, cowboys were people who offered welcoming smiles, fresh produce and delicious jam, and warm hugs.
This week we share 5 condolences about the cowboys and cowgirls in people’s lives:
- I remember as a kid growing up when Great Grandpa Glen would come over or we would visit them and I would always wear his cowboy hat. Today is my 25th Birthday I wish I could wear your hat 1 more year Great Grandpa. I love you Great Grandpa, and will miss you tons. [Published in Rapid City Journal]
- My first memory of Brandon was of him when he was about 2 years old walking into Dick H’s house wearing his cowboy boots and so very proud of them. Memories such as these will be with you forever. [Published in Kansas City Star]
- Uncle Clifford was an icon in our family. His strength and presence gave us courage to face many trials. I’ll never forget him walking through the backdoor on North Street in his overalls after engineering all day and farming all evening. He rarely sat in an easy chair. Last time I saw him, he bought Karen Etherton and I breakfast at Tippy’s, tipping his cowboy hat as he picked up the check and smiling that “Dude” smile. That’s how I’ll remember him, always a gentleman…always strong…still an icon. Rest in Peace, Uncle Clifford. You deserve it. [Published in The Southern Illinoisan]
- I will always remember you with your cast on, and how you managed to always mount Smokey..the cowboy way…cast and all. I can see your smile everytime you and Smokey took part in a play-day, a parade, or Christmas caroling thru El Granada on our horses. [Published in San Francisco Chronicle]
- I remember as a little girl riding horses with you, you always took the time to let me tag along and make me feel special. I’m sure you’re riding Nugget in your cowboy best! [Published in Redding Record Searchlight]
Legacy.com reviews one million condolence messages each month. In our “5 Condolences” series, we highlight messages with a common theme.
