We went to a memorial services today for a local Santa Fe friend, Henry McKinley (1929-2014). We were pleased to honored the passing of a real American cowboy, as they say “the last of a dying breed”. But Henry was so much more then that. He grew up during the 1930s on the famous Ghost Ranch (in northern New Mexico) , where his dad was the manager. Later marrying the owner’s daughter, Peg Pack. He was as it was said today , “a cowboy’s cowboy”— the real deal. Henry served in Korea during the war where he took his rope to practice and teach other soldiers how to rope. He managed several ranches after the war, won numerous championships for roping events. He was a member of the New Mexico Old Timers Rodeo Association. His love of roping led him to help begin and support the Deaf Rodeo Association. He was involved in that organization as he had many friends in the deaf community due to his son becoming deaf as a child due to measles. Every year Henry allowed many folks to help at his gathering and branding on the 25,000 acs Ranch Viejo. Lots of folks learned how to work as crew member during his branding. These branding became famous events in the Santa Fe area with more people attending over the years than can be counted. After the brandings his wife Peg would feed everyone. Today many friends, both in sign language and speeches phrased Henry for all he’d taught them. He was a gentleman, horseman, rancher, father and friend to all. He passing, on August 12th marked a huge loss to the western and horse community of Santa Fe. I know of no one that can fill his empty boots. During much of the service his last horse “OK” with his chaps, hat and boots on his saddle stood quietly as any cowboy would want. It was an honor to know Henry and I’m sure his favorite horses were all young, frisky and waiting for him in heaven. At least I sure hope it works that way.
Posted on: Sat, 20 Sep 2014 21:58:05 +0000
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