When we lose a member of our paniolo ‘ohana, we all feel diminished for a time. Last fall, three of our Paniolo Preservation Society Hall of Famer’s rode out for the last time, and although we are saddened to report the loss of three notable men, we are grateful to be able to share a part of their stories, accomplishments, and many contributions to our ranching community.
Arthur Morgan Brown, owner of A Lazy B Ranch of Waimea and Cathey’s Valley, California, was a lifelong rancher and horse enthusiast whose livestock and horses were of the finest quality. Many horsemen and women competed under his guidance, and received horsemanship awards in dressage and western pleasure. His passing leaves a huge gap in ranching and horse circles where he could always be counted on to provide advice and joy to all who knew him. Morgan was added to the list of distinguished cowboys of the Paniolo Hall of Fame in 2017, and his family continues his rich legacy and ranching operations in California.
Miki Kato, Pu‘uwa‘awa‘a cowboy from Kona led a lifetime of commitment to the livestock industry. His presence at Pu‘uwa‘awa‘a was always welcoming as he diligently carried forth his kuleana (responsibilities). A soft-spoken man of few words, PPS member Miki and his wife Ellen, were the epitome of aloha for all. Miki is probably best known for his genuine smile and offer of a helping hand to all who knew him. He and wife consistently attended PPS functions giving back to the organization and supporting us with their presence. Miki, along with five other cowboys were recipients of the prestigious Kepa Silver Spur Award to honor the working cowboy and his contributions to the industry. Miki was also inducted into the Paniolo Hall of Fame in 2002. Wonderful honors so deserving of a remarkable man.
Alfred Medeiros, from the longtime Medeiros ranching families of South Kona, was a prominent figure in ranching and rodeo circles. He, along with his wife Mabel, were key figures in Kona-Ka‘ū Roping Club rodeo events over multiple years. Alfred began as a cowboy for McCandless Ranch of South Kona eventually working his way up to ranch foreman, overseeing a band of cowboys that included hunting and capturing wild bulls. This was no easy task, fraught with danger and threat of loss of life. Alfred was inducted into the Paniolo Hall of Fame in 2005 and became the recipient of the Kepa Silver Spur Award in 2013. Few men are deserving of both awards. Alfred was not only an extraordinary cowboy, but he was also a leader of men who commanded respect among his contemporaries. The legacy he left will long be remembered in stories and fond memories from colleagues. He was a true Hawaiian cowboy.
