Jack (John) Stoddart died peacefully at home on May 15, 2012. He was born April 10, 1917, in Borough of Kingston, Pa., to John Stoddart and Katherine C. Beck Hopkins. His childhood years were spent in Ross, Calif., where he attended Tamelpais Boys School. At age 18 he moved to Hollister, Calif., when his family purchased the Call Ranch. He graduated from high school in Hollister, Calif., and then attended University of California at Davis, Calif.
On April 15, 1944, he married Lois Fancher. They moved to the Call Ranch where they began their family of their three daughters. In 1950 the Stoddart Brothers purchased the Crooked Creek Ranch in Southeastern Oregon and Jack and Lois moved their young family to Oregon where they have continued their life work and passion for ranching.
Jack was an extraordinary, fun-loving family oriented character who saw humor in situations that could otherwise be difficult and explosive. Not only was Jack a rancher and cattleman, but also a fine horseman who took much pride in riding a good horse. His style and discipline was that of the old vaquero. and with a riata, he was an outstanding roper. A southpaw, he was known for his expertise and accuracy throwing shots like theculo, turn over, back hand, under hand and the figure 8, just to name a few. To many aspiring to the trade he was a great mentor and an even better friend.
His best wish would be for all his friends to know he appreciated their laughter, stories, and companionship. He loved his horses, cows, wife, children, dogs, friends and the 49-ers [not necessarily in that order]. "We rode many a mile together, not always in perfect harmony, but with a lasting respect for one another."
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Harry Stoddart II, and sister, Katherine C. Schenck.
He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Lois Fancher Stoddart; daughters; Jeanette (Richard) Yturriondobeitia, Becky (Gary) Rose, Lyn (Scott) VanArsdale; grandchildren; Dan (Jen) Yturriondobeitia, Jaime (Bob) Yturriondobeitia, Charmarie (Chad) Bradach, J.W. (Kelli) Rose, Samantha (Roy) Dowell, Todd (Angie) Garrett, Christy (Matt) Reese, Katie (Josh) Kay; great-grandchildren John Barry Rose, Tommy Jack Rose, Emily Rose Dowell, Jackie Rae Dowell, Skyler Garrett, Gavin Reese, Owen Reese, Christian Kay, Caleb Kay; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Memorial, celebration of Jack's life, will be held at 12-Mile Ranch on June 10. BBQ and refreshments will be provided. Please bring your favorite picture and story to share.
Donations, in his memory, may be made to Harney County High School Rodeo Team or Harney County Hospice, in care of LaFollette's Chapel, P.O. Box 488; Burns, OR 97720. You can sign the online guestbook at www.lafolletteschapel.com and send your condolences to the family.
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