Buster Welch, a true icon of the cowboy world, passed away peacefully at his home in Abilene, Texas, on Sunday, June 12. Born 94 years ago in Sterling County, Texas, he was the youngest of eight children born to Charles Owen Welch and Fay Lucas Welch.
Tragedy struck early in Buster’s life when his mother passed away just a month after his birth. The siblings were taken in by various relatives, and Buster was raised by his grandparents, Bud and Sarah Welch, until his father remarried.
Buster Welch Early Life
Growing up on a ranch, Buster developed a deep connection with horses and cattle from an early age. By the age of 13, Buster was already working full-time as a cowboy. His determination and natural talent quickly became evident, leading him to participate in rodeo events in his teenage years.
Despite the challenges of his early life, Buster’s passion for the cowboy lifestyle never waned. He continued to hone his skills, and his hard work would eventually earn him a prominent place in the world of cutting horse competitions.
Rise to Fame
In 1947, Buster made his debut at the National Cutting Horse Association (NCHA) Futurity in Fort Worth, Texas. He quickly rose through the ranks and became one of the most respected names in the cutting horse world.
Throughout his career, he won numerous championships and awards, including three NCHA World Championships and an induction into the NCHA Hall of Fame. But Buster’s impact on the cowboy world went beyond just his impressive achievements in competitions.
He was known for his exceptional horsemanship skills and a keen understanding of cattle behavior, making him a sought-after mentor for young cowboys and cutting horse enthusiasts. He also generously shared his knowledge through books, clinics, and demonstrations.
Family
Buster is fondly remembered by his extensive family. Preceding him in death were his beloved wife, Sheila Morris, his grandson Sterling Wilson, his granddaughter Whitney Welch, his son Greg Welch, and his ex-wife, Ginger.
He leaves behind a loving family, including his sisters Beth Joy (Bob) and Nann McCoy, his son Ken Welch (Dixie), daughters Ruth Ann Welch Williams (Ronnie) and Georgia Welch, another son Dolin Morris (Becky), and daughter Nina Finley (David).
He also cherished his grandchildren Amy Welch King (Joshua), Katy Welch, Kelly Welch, Lance Welch (Jacque), Jenny LaSeur (Matt), Abby Howard (Tanner), Dawson Burns (Rebecca), Kirby Meadows (Ward), Brooke Morris (Cole), and Charlsi Bethea (Tyler). Buster’s legacy continues through his 16 great-grandchildren, who will carry his memory forward.
Intense Passion
Buster Welch heart beat for the thrill of horsemanship. His passion for ranching defined his life’s mission, yet it was his talent and spirit that could not be confined. By the age of 26, Buster had already become a world champion cutting horse trainer, steering Marion’s Girl to victory.
By 32, he co-founded the National Cutting Horse Association’s prestigious event, the Futurity, and went on to win it a record five times. Buster’s influence transcended his victories. He designed saddles and tack that revolutionized horse training and showing, innovations still in use by today’s top competitors.
Known for his generosity, Buster selflessly shared advice and assistance with his rivals, prioritizing the sport’s greater good over personal gain. His dedication brought a level of class and dignity to cutting, setting a standard that endures today.
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NCHA World Championship
In 1974, Buster joined the legendary King Ranch. Under their banner, riding the esteemed Mr San Peppy, he clinched the NCHA World Championship two more times. However, it was Peppy San Badger, affectionately known as “Little Peppy,” that became Buster’s crowning achievement.
Together, they claimed victory at the 1977 Futurity, and Little Peppy went on to become one of the most influential sires in the breed. Despite having only an eighth-grade education, Buster was an avid reader and lifelong learner.
His pure passion for his lifestyle, deep understanding of his heritage, and authenticity made him a magnet for people from all walks of life. World business leaders, heads of state, renowned authors, and Hollywood elites were all drawn to his effortless charm and compelling charisma.
Working cowboys and horse trainers flocked to his ranch, eager to absorb his unparalleled knowledge and skills with horses and cattle. His circle of friends was as vast as it was varied. Buster’s accomplishments, connections, and magnetic personality earned him a place among the most revered figures in Western American culture.
He was inducted into the National Cutting Horse Association Hall of Fame, Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, and the American Quarter Horse Association Hall of Fame. He received numerous awards, including the Foy Proctor Memorial Cowman’s Award, the Golden Spur Award, the Western Horseman Award, and the Charles Goodnight Award, among many others.
Cause of Death
Buster Welch’s passing marks the end of an era, but his indomitable spirit and the profound impact he had on the world of ranching and cutting horses will endure. Known for his remarkable horsemanship, innovative contributions to tack and training methods, and his unwavering dedication to the sport, Buster’s legacy is cemented in the annals of Western culture.
Stories of his life and accolades are sure to be passed down through generations, continuing to inspire future cowboys and horse enthusiasts. In the wake of his departure, the community he shaped feels a profound sense of loss, yet also a deep sense of gratitude.
Gatherings and tributes to celebrate his life and contributions are being organized, where tales of his legendary feats and the wisdom he shared will resonate.
As we reflect on Buster Welch’s incredible journey, we are reminded of the values he embodied: passion, dedication, generosity, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. His life serves as a beacon for those who walk in his footsteps, ensuring that his influence on the Western tradition never fades.
Summary
Buster Welch was a towering figure in the world of cutting horses, renowned for his mastery of the sport and his innovative contributions to horse training and equipment design.
His legendary career spanned decades, highlighted by numerous championships and transformative partnerships with horses like Mr San Peppy and Peppy San Badger. Despite his limited formal education, Buster’s boundless curiosity and innate talent drew people from all walks of life.
His magnetic personality and generosity in sharing knowledge earned him a revered place in Western American culture, culminating in multiple hall of fame inductions and prestigious awards. Even in death, his legacy of excellence, passion, and dedication continues to inspire and shape the community he so deeply impacted.