Bud Vancleave

1930 - 2026

 It is with heavy hearts and sadness that the family of Gallen Dallas Vancleave announce his peaceful passing in Taber on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at the age of 96 years.

Bud was predeceased by his dear wife Doris in 2003, they were married for forty nine years. He is survived by his three children, Philip (Sue) Vancleave of Lethbridge and their daughter Lace Lutz (Fisher and Vinny); Dalyce (Jim) Hubek of Taber and their daughter Logan; Shelly (Brad) Zibell of Bassano and their sons Clayton (Eury) and Lane (Levi and Lexi). He is also survived by his sister Wanda “Tootie” Engelson.

Bud had a very eventful and colorful life, born in 1930 and at the age of sixteen, the cowboy life was in his blood. The winner of many Canadian championships, starting in 1951 winning the Wild Horse Race, followed in 1952 with the Canadian All Around. He won the Canadian Calf Roping Championship in 1959, 1961 and 1965. He was always in the standings throughout his career. Bud was inducted into the Canadian Rodeo Hall of Fame on September 19, 1998. He also served twelve consecutive years on the Board of Directors for the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association. Bud was honored to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated, to this day the only rodeo cover ever featured.

Bud was a real outdoorsman, spending lots of time hunting and fishing and guiding. He not only raised some exceptional horses but bird dogs as well. Anyone that knew him could be assured of falling victim to a practical joke.

Bud was a humble, honest guy who loved family and friends. He enjoyed life to the fullest and was admired by many.

Rest easy cowboy, your entry fees are paid.

Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, June 12, 2026 between 6:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M.

The Funeral Service will be held at Knox United Church, 4929 - 50 Avenue, Taber on Saturday, June 13, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. Burial to follow at the Taber Memorial Garden. 

Those who are unable to attend and wish to view the service online may do so by clicking on the livestream link that will be available at 12:45 P.M. on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Barring any technical difficulties, the livestream will begin at 1:00 P.M.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Bud’s name may be made directly to Clearview Lodge Resident Council, 4407- 51 Avenue, Taber, Alberta T1G 2H6.