J. Gentry
J. Cleveland Gentry passed away in his home on Oct. 21, 2019. J. was born April 5, 1932, in Meeker, CO, to J.C. and Vera Gentry. He graduated with the class of 1949 and attended one quarter at CSU before joining the US Army. He was married to Ann Watt on June 19th, 1954, and they had three children, Janelle, James Kirk and Michelle. He was married to Carol Costanzo in November 1973. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Beverley and grandson.
J. bought his first ranch on Strawberry Creek outside of Meeker before he turned 30. Early in his career he purchased the Rifle Sales Yard and moved to Rifle in 1972. He was fortunate enough to buy and sell eight ranches in his lifetime. He always said he was lucky but also said if “bought right they are half sold.”
J. loved not only the cattle business but enjoyed a good roping. He was able to enjoy his last several winters in Wickenburg, AZ, where he spent a good deal of his time watching his fellow cowboys’ rope. J. was a colorful cowboy who enjoyed a good story, especially if he was the one telling it.
He wanted to thank all for their friendship and business. He asked that if he had offended anyone, “please forgive me.” He will be missed by many.
Audrey Squires
Audrey and Walter (Bud) Squires began their life together in Garfield County in July 1950. They raised three children on the family ranch on Taughenbaugh Mesa and successfully operated Audrey’s Bakery and Café for 18 years in Rifle.
Their family annually supported the Garfield County Fair and Rodeo through sponsorship of the Apple Pie Contest, 4-H activities entered by their children and grandchildren, and participation in the 4-H livestock auction. Bud and Audrey never missed a parade, PCRA Rodeo or Bull Riding event and they looked forward to getting together and catching up with other county residents and friends.
Bud passed away in 2007 and Audrey in May of 2020. They both felt supporting the annual County Fair was important to maintaining bonds with our community and our traditions.