The world moves in wonderful circles and a fine one was completed this morning. I’m honored, will cherish, and try and fill the gift that has come to me.
Robert Jorgensen was a man’s man. Born November 27th, 1934 from Hurley, South Dakota. Graduate of SDSU with an Agriculture Degree. He put it to the Good of Man. A two year U.S. Army stint in Japan before coming home and making a difference. Robert spent 1965-1998 working for the Omaha Livestock Exchange. Western Area Supervisor, his territory from the Missouri River to California. Traveled to Washington, D.C. too, always striving to advocate and serve, received numerous service and industry awards. Was a key figure in Livestock Market News, covering all facets of his passion.
Mr. Jorgensen also had a global impact. Spent time in both Poland and Kazakhstan helping those govenments and people develop sustainable livestock farming. As too often happens, he passed just a year after his retirement. But his works, deeds, and words still echo through South Omaha and beyond.
I was having a beer at my favorite watering hole last night. Talk turned to my diminuitive stature and then my shoe size. Eights in running shoes, 8.5 in Cowboy Boots. An old friend overheard and mentioned that she had a collection of her father’s boots, treasures all, that would fit me perfectly. That was my introduction to Robert Jorgensen. Michelle was kind and keen enough to say she felt I would be the perfect person for them. If I was moved then, I am even moreso now. Drove to Millard this morning, tried on 8 pair that fit as if they were hand tailored for me. These boots, painstakingly cared for during a man’s career and after by a daughters love, seem to have been destined to end up at the Bar None. I’m not often at a loss for words but came close this morning. A birthday gift, my own just a day after his.
Thank you Michelle. Thank you Robert Jorgensen.
Lucchese, Tony Lama, Laramie, Olathe, Nocona, and Justin, boots that built the livestock industry both in Omaha and around the world. I’ll do my best to fill them well.
Robert Jorgensen. Your legacy lives.
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