Gene Owen Obituary-Death News; Gene Owen Death – Pro Rodeo/Bull Riding Stock Contractor Gene Owen Dies
It is with heavy hearts that the rodeo and bull riding communities mourn the sudden and tragic passing of Gene Owen, a legendary stock contractor from Choctaw, Oklahoma.
Gene died unexpectedly on June 26, 2025, following an accident in Big Cabin, OK. He was 66 years old. Gene Owen was more than just a stock contractor—he was a deeply respected figure in the world of professional rodeo and bull riding.
For over four decades, Gene built a reputation as a man who not only raised and managed some of the sport’s fiercest and most celebrated bulls but did so with integrity, humility, and a deep reverence for the animals in his care. His passing marks the loss of a beloved mentor, partner, and friend to many.
Gene’s passion for bulls and the sport they helped define was obvious to anyone who met him. He beamed with quiet pride when talking about the powerful athletes in his string.
One of his most celebrated bulls, Man Hater, became a household name among fans, recognized nationally for back-to-back world championship titles and earning the highest bull score in history.
And yet, Gene never took the credit for their success. He’d humbly shift the spotlight to his longtime business partner Jane Clark, the brave bull riders who faced his animals in the arena, his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and most importantly, the animals themselves.
Gene’s bulls were more than business to him—they were family. From Cochise and American Gangster to Always Been Crazy, Moonlight Party, Lil 2 Train, Zorro, Exodus, and Seven Dust, each one held a special place in his heart.
Gene was known to sit bulls out of competition not for strategy or rest, but because he wanted them at their best—both physically and mentally. He left money on the table time and time again, always putting the welfare of his bulls first. That rare level of care and compassion is part of what set him apart.
He was a man who believed in miracles. Often quoted saying, “God is in the miracle business,” Gene chose to see the good in the world. His faith, optimism, and unwavering kindness were a beacon to many. Though soft-spoken and humble, his influence on the sport—and the lives of those around him was immense.
Gene Owen died doing what he loved working with animals and living out his calling in the great outdoors. One moment, he was on horseback in Oklahoma, and the next, he was gone. The suddenness of his passing serves as a painful reminder of how quickly life can change.
He is survived by his loving partner and best friend, Lari, who was often seen by his side at events, flanking bulls in a matching shirt. Gene also leaves behind a son, a daughter, and four cherished grandchildren. His family, like the community he built around rodeo and faith, will miss him deeply.
Today, the loss of Gene Owen is deeply felt, not just in Oklahoma but across the country. Yet, in true Gene fashion, his life leaves behind a lesson: cherish each moment, care deeply for the people and animals around you, and give glory to God in all things.
Be humble. Be kind. And never take a single day for granted.
Rest easy, Gene. You’ve left hoofprints on the hearts of so many.
