Each year the “Meeker Classic Memorial Scholarship” is dedicated in honor and memory of exemplary individuals that have been involved with the Meeker Classic, but have now passed away.
This scholarship is awarded to a Meeker High School graduate that continues their education in a two year trade school, two year associate degree or four year college or university. The award is made to a student in the second year of their studies. Applicants are awarded based on their community involvement and volunteer activities. The Meeker Classic wants to help build the next generation of volunteers, and we believe this scholarship is a small step towards achieving that goal.
Meeker Classic Scholarship Recipients (awarded a year after the dedication in the recipients 2nd year of college):
- 2009(awarded in 2010) – Meg Nieslanik $1000 in Memory of Gene Scritchfield
- 2010(awarded in 2011) – Morgan Nielson – $1000 in Memory of Randy Campbell
- 2011(awarded in 2012) – Jake Nieslanik – $1000 in Memory of Genivieve Clough
- 2012 (awarded in 2013) – Aubrey Walsh – $1000 In Memory of Roger Culbreath
- 2013 (awarded in 2014) – Mason Scritchfield -In Memory of Grant Nielsen
- 2014(awarded in 2015) – Shelby Burke – $1000 – In Memory of Artie Parr and Jason Hightower
- 2015 (awarded in 2016) – Sydney Hughes $1000 – In Memory of the many volunteers and sheep producers that have served the community.
- 2017 – (awarded in 2018) Maggie Phelan – $1000, Sheridan Harvey – $600, Meghan Smith – $600 – In Memory of Bill Lukes & Jim Swift
- 2018 (awarded in 2019) Abbey Morgan – $1000, Madeline Arnold – $600, Macy Collins – $600 – In Memory of Gary Dunham
- 2019 (awarded in 2020) Luis Villapando – $1000 – In Memory of Tom Zulim
- 2020 (awarded in 2021) Kolbi Franklin – $1000 – In Memory of Dan Wood
Additional outside donations to this scholarship effort are welcomed and appreciated. We trust that loyal spectators and handlers also recognize the value of involvement for generations to come. Donations or questions about this scholarship fund can be directed to: Mary Cunningham, trials@meekersheepdog.com, 970-878-0111.
2009 Scholarship – Dedicated to Gene Scritchfield
May 31, 1970 – October 29, 2008
Whether it was holding sheep at the set-out post or driving the horse drawn shuttle at the Meeker Classic, Gene Scritchfield became a familiar face at the Meeker Classic. September is never an easy time for a guide and outfitter to take time away from their business, but without fail Gene made it work – just another example of his unselfish nature.
We’ll never know if Gene became a Meeker Classic volunteer by his own accord, or merely by way of helping and showing support for his wife Ann Marie (Nielsen). Ann Marie’s father, Grant Nielsen, was on the original organizing committee for the Meeker Classic in 1987, and ran the field sheep and set-out crew for almost 20 subsequent years. He and Ann Marie owned and operated Sable Mountain Outfitters. He was proud of his lifestyle, but more importantly Gene was proud of his family, his 14 year old son Mason and his 3 year old daughter Eva as well as the love of his life, his wife Ann Marie. Gene loved his community and was happy to serve in any way he could.
2010 Meeker Classic Memorial Scholarship – Dedicated to Randy Dean Campbell
Dec. 6, 1951 – March 9, 2010
Raised on sheep ranches in Colorado, Randy, his wife Julie and their two children, Lyn and Clay ran their own sheep operation migrating from the desert of Eastern Utah to the high country around Vail, CO in the summer time. The Campbell-Hansmire Sheep has been the supplier of the “Meeker Sheep” for the Meeker Classic for several years.
Randy loved horses and his favorite days were out riding the range. He was skillful at evaluating new ranges and determining and adjusting grazing plans. His wife Julie and their children continue to manage the ranch and bring their top quality sheep to Meeker each year for the sheepdog trials.
2011 Meeker Classic Scholarship Dedicated to Genevieve Clough
1924- Oct. 28, 2010
Genevieve and her late husband Bill have been involved with the Meeker Classic since its beginnings in 1987. Genevieve lived much of her adult life in Rifle, Colorado raising a family of four children, working hard – completing a college degree at 50 and running Clough Sheep Company with her late husband Bill Clough. An avid supporter of community and education, Genevieve has made so much possible for so many. “God has seen fit to give me the wherewithal to do something to help,” Mrs. Clough had often said. She created a foundation for fellowships for local students in and around Rifle.
She represents the best of what we each could be. For those who knew her, Mrs. Clough’s bright spirit has inspired each of us to be a better person.
2012 Meeker Classic Scholarship Dedicated to Roger Culbreath
1941 – Dec. 23, 2011
Roger and his wife Nancy raised their two children in eastern Colorado. In addition to family, Roger had a genuine love for the working Border Collie. Roger was a pioneer of the stockdog community in Colorado; he worked tirelessly for years promoting, teaching and hosting many trials and clinics
Roger served as President of the USBCHA, and was a Director of the American Border Collie Association. He also served as president and founder of the Mountain & Plains Border Collie Association. He is the man that established the stock dog competitions that are still held at the National Western Stock Show in Denver and served as superintendent of the sheepdog trials for twelve years.
Roger, a long-time border collie handler and enthusiast, competed in the first Meeker Classic 26 years ago. He placed 8th in 1991 with Trim and 8th again in 1993 with Tweed. Roger’s presence will be missed among the border collie circles across the country.
2013 Meeker Classic Scholarship Dedicated to Grant Nielsen
In the mid 80’s Grant, Gus Halandras and Marv Brown sat around a table throwing around some ideas leading to which is now the world famous Meeker Classic Championship Sheepdog Trials. He spent many years on the board of directors, countless hours building fence, sorting and setting sheep and soon became an icon that the handlers expected to see. Once again, Grant returned to those enjoyable hours spent in the saddle on his horse with a Border Collie at his side until his health prevented him from doing what he loved.
Many amongst the community of the Meeker Classic consider themselves fortunate to have known Grant. Remembered for the twinkle in his eye and his love of livestock, we’re quite certain that Grant is now horseback, riding after some sheep, probably up on the Flat Tops, with a black & white dog at his side.
2014 Meeker Classic Scholarship – Dedicated to Artie Parr & Jason Hightower
ARTIE L. PARR 1927 – 2015
Artie was born in 1927, in Grand Junction, Colo., to Greek immigrants Hariklia Roufoulas and Louis J. Eliopulos. Artie Parr was a committee chair’s dream – the volunteer that insisted on serving three shifts, reliable and competent making sure everything ran smoothly. A people person, Artie enjoyed visiting with customers as she worked in the Souvenir booth at the Meeker Classic. She was always the person who would fill in on last minute notice and truly loved working at the Meeker Classic. Fellow volunteers enjoyed Artie’s friendly spunk and spirit. Finishing up her shift at the souvenir stand, Artie would venture over to the Wool Growers barbeque to volunteer there.
Artie volunteered several years at the Souvenir trailer tracking sales, keeping detailed records and taking ownership in all that she did. Past Souvenir committee chairs, Renae Neilson and Sandra Besseghini remember Artie’s time and influence in the souvenir trailer. The school teacher came out in her when children volunteered in the trailer. The kids would say “Mrs. Parr always makes us count the change out of the box and to the customer, but she is so nice.” Artie’s service to the Meeker Classic goes back to the early days when she was still teaching and could work on the weekends. She knew the ins and outs of all the souvenir activities. Artie, 86, continued to help from home when she could not come to the trial. Artie proudly wore her Meeker Classic sweatshirts across the country and was always happy to tell people about the trial. We will miss Artie’s friendly smile in the souvenir stand this year, but know she’s left her mark on the Meeker Classic. Her family continues to volunteer and countless students remember their lessons on counting back change as they themselves give their time to the community.
2015 Scholarship – In Memory of the many volunteers and sheep producers that have served the community.
Jason Edward Hightower
1970-2015
The community of Meeker sadly said goodbye to Jason Hightower in early 2015. Jason was significant member of the community and supporter of the Meeker Classic during his 15 years residing in Meeker. Jason will be remembered fondly by his family, friends and the many students he had the opportunity to mentor. People who knew Jason best describe him as having a “larger than life” personality and the type of person who never met a stranger. In Jason’s 44 short years he lived and loved well.
Jason reveled in everything Meeker had to offer. From camping, hiking, hunting, snowboarding, and of course enjoying Meeker’s very own claim to international fame, The Meeker Classic Sheepdog Trials. During the event Jason could usually be found visiting with friends at the Art Reception and enjoying the event, it was one of the Hightower’s favorite Meeker weekends.
Jason’s life, passion, and laughter will be sorely missed by those who knew him. However his legacy continues to flourish in those lives he touched; children and staff in the Meeker School District, his countless friends, family and those “strangers” who got a glimpse of his infectious smile and couldn’t help but smile as well. Without a doubt, his wife Mandi will be caught volunteering in the Art Barn while their sons will probably be in the “ditch” with friends or devouring a funnel cake, still enjoying one of their favorite Meeker weekends at the Meeker Classic Sheepdog Trials and living by Jason’s mantra of “Life is Good.”
“The flame that burns twice as bright, half as long” –Lao Tzu
2017 Scholarship – Dedicated to Jim Swift and Bill Lukes
James Patrick Swift (Jim) 1945 – 2017
Jim’s lifelong passion was training and breeding sheepdogs, beginning in 1986. He served on the Board of Directors for the United States Border Collie Handlers Association and the American Border Collie Association for years. A long time friend, competitor and supporter of the Meeker Classic he competed in every Meeker Classic from 1988 until 2016. A fine handler, wonderful person and true character, Jim will be missed by all of us in the sheepdog world.
Bill Lukes
William “Bill” Lukes
A man with a big heart and special gift working with animals. Bill traveled many different paths in life, leaving architecture footprints, capturing memories, taking the shot, volunteering endless hours at local animal shelters and developing friendships.
Bill touched many hearts at CSU Flint Animal Cancer Center, due to his dog Bogey. His passion to play with his furry friends initiated a passion for Agility. Bill was instrumental in developing and building the Meeker Classic Agility and Flyball program demos. The Agility and Flyball fields have fittingly been named after Bill. An advocate for dogs and people, Bill invested his heart into everything he did. He loved the border collies and served as course director at several sheepdog trials in the area.
2018 Scholarship – Dedicated to Gary Dunham
Gary Dunham 1943 – 2018
Meeker native, Gary Dunham will be missed by his family, friends and the Meeker community. He ranched in Meeker and later owned and operated the Meeker General Mercantile – a common stopping place for locals and Meeker Classic visitors. In addition to his commitment to family and his work Gary dedicated his life to service to his community. Serving on the local WREA board and asssociated boards from 1989 to 2018, Gary also served on the Yellow Jacket Water Conservancy District Board and the Upper Colorado Environmental Plant Center. He was the ultimate champion of Meeker youth and supported his community in any way he could. The Meeker Classic recognizes Gary’s volunteerism and citizenship as a model for all to follow.
2019 Scholarship – Dedicated to Tom Zulim
Tomas M. Zulim
Tom passed away of natural causes while at home in Hockley Texas in 2018. He and his wife Laura were dear friends of the Border Collie community and the Meeker Classic and the community of Meeker. They were heavily involved in their family, the ranch and sports of all kinds. Tom was an avid fisherman and hunter and loved dogs and animals of all kinds. He and Laura recused hundreds of animals and adopted many dogs. Hi most recent adoption was his Border Collie Whiskey who still waits at the door for Tom to come home.
While attending the 2007 Meeker Classic, Tom witnessed the micro-burst that flipped bleachers and obliterated all the vendor tents on site. Joining the community in patching up the pieces to carry on, Tom helped facilitate the implementation of the tents we now stage each year at the Meeker Classic. Always a willing partner and supporter of the Meeker Classic, Tom also became an integral part of the Western Border Collie Rescue. He loved these beautiful creatures and was passionate about facilitating happy endings for those less fortunate.
2020 Scholarship – Dedicated to Dan Wood
Daniel Wood, of Meeker, died Sunday, June 7, 2020 at The Walbridge Wing. Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, June 12, 2020 at Holy Family Catholic Church. Daniel David Russel Wood was born in Parshall, Colorado, on Feb. 17, 1941, to Kenneth and Josephine Wood. He was brought up in a devout Catholic lifestyle where he remained until his death on June 7, 2020, at the Pioneers Hospital Walbridge Wing with no family present due to the COVID-19 virus.. Dan married Jean Stoner on Feb. 17, 1967, stayed married for 53 years.. Dan was proceeded in death by his father and mother, and two daughters Kati and Juli. Dan is survived by his wife Jean (Stoner) Wood; children Russ and Dani and their families.
Dan graduated from Kremmling High School, served for the U.S. Army, then attended CSU and graduated with a Bachelor in Science of animal production. Dan served on numerous boards including school and church. He had lots of wonderful close family, friends, and neighbors and will be greatly missed by all.
Dan and his wife Jean were loyal volunteers for the Meeker Classic. Things just didn’t seem normal until you saw Jean at the souvenir stand and Dan at the Meeker Classic concessions. We will miss Dan and welcome Jean back to the Meeker Classic whenever she wants. Dan – rest in peace and now your spirit will always be felt here at the Meeker Classic.
2021 Scholarship – Dedicated to Connie Theos
Connie Marie Theos 1945 – 2020
Connie Marie Theos was born to Nick and Aileen Theos in 1945. From the day she was born she was taught the value of hard work and dedication to the ranching way of life.
She loved the ranch and some of her fondest memories from her childhood were on the ranch. Connie’s happy place was outside with the sheep, horses and dogs.
She was a very adventurous person, spending time in California and Arizona before landing back at the ranch in 2001. Working tirelessly to promote the sheep industry, he was a great volunteer and advocate for the Woolgrowers, Meeker Classic, Stockgrowers and served on the Farm Service Agency. If there was an event to promote or work for the agricultural industry, Connie would be there.
She leaves behind Martin Inda, Renae and Paul Neilson (sister and brother in-law); Kelcee, Ryan, Jace and Mollee Vroman (niece and family); Morgan and Kelsey Pfeiffer (niece and husband); Taylor Neilson (niece); along with her extended family and many friends.
Connie loved life and lived the life she loved.