Dick Graham was born and raised a cowboy in the heart of cattle country on Inyan Kara Creek in Crook County. Dick was known by many for his keen eye for good cattle, fast stout horses, hands that knew how to work, and most importantly his kind heart and love for his family and the Lord.
He raised three children and two grandchildren with his wife Janet as his sidekick on the 5th generation Graham Ranch where the kids learned about hard work, dedication, and faith.
Dick was a proud supporter of the youth involvement in agriculture, being a generous supporter of the Whitcomb FFA and Crook County Fair, and the surrounding youth rodeos. Dick along with his older brother Dave, have kept on the legacy of the Graham ranch, raising black Angus cattle. Dick was always proud of the herd and was quite often caught saying “They aren’t worth a damn” with a little smirk following. He took pride in all he did but was especially proud of his yearlings.
His kids all have memories of being by his side on horseback, moving cows, haying, feeding during the winter months, putting mineral out, and checking water, the little moments that now are the fondest memories. Dick was also a farmer a few months out of the year enjoying every moment he got in his swather. Many of his grandchildren learned that that was the best place for a nap. He was the best babysitter while still working the cowboy lifestyle.
Dick and Janet traveled all over the country chasing their kids and grandkids in their rodeo and athletic endeavors, gaining the name “papa and gram” to many kids through the years. Dick always believed that his girls were just as good of hands as the boys, maybe even better at times. He was proud to be a cowboy, but even prouder to be a family man.
Dick was as humble as they come and never needed the spotlight, he just let the cattle speak for themselves. Dick loved the ranch, even after he was diagnosed with AML, he found the strength and faith to walk outside and drive his John Deere side by side to check on his cattle, and land, and to line the boys out for the day.
Dick could make any job look effortless because of his work ethic and gentle nature, being known as the best gateman and corral hand by many. He lived life to the fullest, reminding everyone they had a shoulder to cry on, arms to run to, and a heart of love.