Lloyd Steven Roduner; 1932-2025

Lloyd was a fourth-generation farmer whose life was deeply rooted in the family homestead first settled by his great-grandfather and grandfather in 1879. He grew up on a dairy farm during the Depression, later helping his family transition to beef and horse breeding. In 1935, they began growing rice and other grain crops, and in 1979 proudly celebrated the ranch’s centennial on Aug. 4.

Lloyd and his wife, Patricia, began their life together in Chowchilla, CA, where they raised their family and built lasting friendships. In 2012, they moved to Buffalo, WY, where Lloyd spent his later years close to family and surrounded by the ranch life he loved so deeply. He attended El Capitan Elementary, Merced High School and California Polytechnic State University, and proudly served two years in the U.S. Army, stationed in San Diego as a food inspector.

A pillar of his community, Lloyd served on the Alview and Alview/Dairyland school boards, as past president of the California Cattlemen’s Association, and as a dedicated member of the California State Brand Inspection Board, Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association and the California Water Board. He volunteered for many local organizations including the Chowchilla Tenaya Guild supporting Valley Children’s Hospital.

Beyond his education and civic engagement, Lloyd was a lifelong horseman. He won his first belt buckle from the Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association in 1951 at the Cow Palace at just 19 years old. He often shared stories of his two favorite horses, “Old Grandad” and “Wood Wasp,” both foundation horses of his family’s horse business and central figures in the memories he cherished. Lloyd’s career as a professional team roper fueled his passion for the Western lifestyle he loved. Known for his dedication, grit and skill, he roped competitively for decades and earned many titles, including the 1978 International Feedlot Cowboy Association Champion Team Roper. In and out of the arena, Lloyd was a man among men—respected, steady and committed to the sport and community he loved.

Lovingly known as “Papa Lloyd” by his family, he is survived by his wife of 70 years, Patricia; his son, Michael, and his wife, Diane; his daughter, Lollie; and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Phillip and Rachel (Rowland); brothers, Richard (“Bud”) and Walter Phillip Jr.; and sisters, Janet Hayes and Joan Bailey. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in memory of Lloyd Roduner to the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund.