Wednesday Mini Mag

Kansas Cowboy Posthumously Honored As Pro Rodeo’s Pickup Man Of The Year

By Frank J. Buchman

“He has the best seat in the house.” More than once last Wednesday the nostalgic expression was heard from bowed heads with tears being wiped away. Each was so sad yet very graciously pleased at the same time. Their hero, everybody’s friend, “the true cowboy’s cowboy,” Rex Bugbee was posthumously honored as rodeo’s Pickup Man of the Year. During the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Banquet in Fort Worth Texas, the Kansas cowboy was acknowledged for his service. “Bugs,” as many friends knew him, was honored during ceremonies prior to the 2020 National Finals Rodeo in Arlington, Texas, From Medicine Lodge, Bugbee passed away August 25, this year, just 65-years-old. He was fatally injured serving as pickup man during a bronc riding match in Guymon, Oklahoma, August 20. Confident “Bugs” was grinning from ear to ear as he’s best remembered worldwide friends felt the humble pickup man’s presence. Looking down from Heaven Bugbee’s pleasure was sensed being recognized for what he enjoyed more than anything in earthly life. “I love my job. I love everything about being a rodeo pickup man,” Bugbee insisted just a few months earlier. His professional arena duties were likewise personally appreciated as “Bugs” had affirmed. “I have the best

seat in the house. I’m close up for the rodeo action of the livestock and the cowboys.” This year’s view of the National Finals Rodeo had to be the best ever for Bugbee.