Remembering Bud Longbrake: Rodeo Legend & Cowboy's Final Ride

Can a life be defined by a single word? For Bud Longbrake, that word was "cowboy," a testament to a life lived fully in the saddle and on the land.

The rodeo world, and the broader community of Dupree, South Dakota, mourned the loss of a true legend on December 20, 2024. Bud Longbrake, a name synonymous with grit, skill, and the enduring spirit of the American West, took his final ride at the age of 62. His passing, marked by the collision of his truck with a tree on his beloved ranch, sent ripples of grief throughout the bronc riding nation. The echoes of breaking hearts were "deafening," a poignant reflection of the impact this man had on those who knew him, rode alongside him, and admired his unwavering dedication to the cowboy way of life. He passed away at the IHS Hospital in Eagle Butte.

Bud Longbrake was more than just a champion; he was an embodiment of the cowboy ethos. He was a rider, a stockman, a father, and a grandfather. He carried the weight of tradition, understanding his role as a steward of the land. He was also a man of the people, known to his friends and family as a deeply compassionate individual. The name "Sung Watogla Hoksila," meaning "Wild Horse Boy," was transferred to Bud from Jeff Knight, a special honor that resonated deeply within the rodeo community. It served as a symbol of respect and appreciation from the people who knew him, and it was a mark of the esteem he held for his childhood friend.

• From Disney To Dune Zendayas Rise To Fame

Full Name	Emmett Dunn "Bud" Longbrake
Date of Birth	September 6, 1962
Place of Birth	Eagle Butte, South Dakota
Date of Death	December 20, 2024
Place of Death	IHS Hospital, Eagle Butte, South Dakota
Profession	Saddle Bronc Rider, Rancher, Stockman
Notable Achievements	Winner of the Average at the 1990 National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas Won several PRCA and NRCA titles, including the Cheyenne Frontier Days average in 1999
Family	Father, Grandfather, Delbert and Mary Longbrake, Sydney and Rose Nordvold, several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Legacy	Known for his skills as a rider and stockman. He was also a savvy breeder and artful at reading and providing what any individual bucking horse needed to be the best.
Additional Information	Sold some of his horses to his son, Bud Longbrake.
Reference	Further Information

Bud's journey began on September 6, 1962, in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, to Delbert F. Longbrake. He grew up on the ranch on Ash Creek. His early life was shaped by the open range and the hard work that defined his future. As a young boy of five years old his mom took him down to the round corral, sparking the cowboy's love of the sport. He was met on the ranch on Ash Creek by older brothers delbert w. Longbrake, cementing his connection to the land and its traditions.

The skill and artistry of his profession was clear to see, both in his riding and in his commitment to the horses he worked with. He was a "savvy breeder and artful at reading and providing what any individual bucking horse needed to be the best." He understood the nuances of the sport, the relationship between rider and animal, and the importance of nurturing talent. This appreciation extended beyond the arena; it was a way of life, a deep respect for the animals and the land they shared.

The influence of family and friends was a constant in Bud's life. He was inspired to ride saddle broncs by watching his uncle Bud Longbrake and cousin T.C. Holloway ride. He was not only a competitor but also a mentor, someone who was happy to inspire the next generation. His presence, even from a distance, had an effect. Kc, who loved to watch his uncle, was involved in high school rodeo and went on to graduate from Gillette Community College in May 2010 with his certified welding degree.

• Discover Japans Ivory Hills Myth Or Reality

The accolades and recognition that followed were a natural extension of his talent and dedication. He won several PRCA and NRCA titles, including the Cheyenne Frontier Days average in 1999. His victory at the 1990 National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, was a pinnacle, a testament to his unwavering commitment and a source of pride for his fans.

The community of Dupree rallied to honor his memory. Funeral services were held at the Dupree School Gymnasium on Saturday, December 28, 2024, with a prayer service held the evening before. Family and friends, including Sydney and Rose Nordvold and Delbert and Mary Longbrake, gathered to share their condolences and celebrate a life well-lived. Donations in lieu of flowers were directed to an account set up at Black Hills Federal Credit Union in Pierre, SD. His legacy continues to resonate among his loved ones and within the arena he so deeply loved.

The passing of Bud Longbrake reminds us of the ephemeral nature of life, but it also underscores the enduring power of legacy. His name will forever be etched in the annals of rodeo history. He was a legend, a champion, and a true cowboy. His spirit of resilience, his respect for the land and animals, and his unwavering dedication to his craft will continue to inspire generations to come. As the bronc riding nation mourns the loss of a true icon, the sound of breaking hearts is a testament to the deep impact of a life lived fully, a life defined by the simple yet profound word: cowboy.

On September 5, 2023, a celebration of life service was held for Delbert Francis Pete Longbrake, 91, of Dupree, at the Dupree Rodeo Grounds. The service began with four bronc riders in memory of Pete.

In the words of those who knew him best, Bud Longbrake was a man of quiet strength, someone who excelled in both the spotlight and in the quiet moments of ranch life. His commitment to his family and friends was evident in his actions, in his presence, and in the way he lived his life.

The Kesling Funeral Home of Mobridge was in charge of arrangements for his funeral, but the true measure of his life will be held in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.