Frank Lazcanotegui

Frank Lazcanotegui left an impression on everyone he met. His beautiful basque accent, brilliant smile, and jovial nature made everyone that he spoke with feel special.

He ran the bucking chute gate for at least 20 years. When I asked Brenda if she could remember how many years exactly, she sweetly stated that he started it sometime after they were married in 1973 and stopped sometime in the 90s. What an incredible amount of time and service.

Frank had many partners back in the bucking chutes, including Orson Nate, Sr. and Dennis Andersen. One thing was for sure, those men loved what they did and took pride in their contribution to the rodeo every year.

Frank LOVED the Cokeville Rodeo and looked forward to it every year. It was the highlight of the summer for him. Like so many families in the community, the Pioneer Day weekend was a generational affair — his mother in law would stay up all night preparing food to cook at the church luncheon, he would lend a hand during the rodeo, and he always, ALWAYS rode in the parade with his sweet baby girl, Lisa.

He loved the ranching “way of life.” He worked for Thompson Land & Livestock for 32 years, and Kenny Petersen Ranches for another 11. Frank my friend, we thank you for your many years of service not only to the Cokeville Rodeo, but the many ranchers and families you served during your time on this earth.

We remember you dear friend, and we honor you, and we miss you.