This month the Sweet Grass county ranching community lost a man who was somewhat of a legend in these parts. Following are some images from his burial and celebration of life, which fit perfectly with the life he lived.
Tribute to Pete
Life brought us a cowboy, with a
quiet and gentle way. He always had a
simple smile, maybe just a word or two to say.
You knew when he was happy, out beneath the big blue skies. His smile had a sparkle, you could see it in
his eyes.
Most any day would find Pete out
doing what he loved: looking after cattle, under the big sky above.
I loved to watch him ride a
horse or help him working cows. His love
was range and livestock and not for running plows. I saw his smile largest when he told of
family tales. His brothers and his
sisters put the full wind in his sails.
His nieces and his nephews, and the children that they grew, brought
Pete many blessings he would share with smiles true. At brandings or at parties - when Pete had
family there, he watched in adoration and with a love so rich and rare. As we celebrate Pete’s life today, in his
cowboy style, memories of his gentle heart will bring us all a smile. His life was tied up with cattle; a hardy
life but free, where snow means grass next summer and a man can plainly see
God’s handiwork on every side... Pete’s thanks were sincere - for friends, good
grass, fat cattle, and a good ranch country year.
By Calvin Christensen
