Terrible news. I would have thought the front cover was more fitting -at least a builder of the breed centerfold- but I was happy to see some recognition for him nonetheless in the Shorthorn country magazine after his passing. In a few short years the breed has seen the loss of three genuine master breeders. Rob sneed, Keith lauer, and now Gary Kaper. Not too many left. Coming into the breed, all three of these men were giants in my mind and I am grateful to have incorporated cattle from each of them.
I met Gary first on a shorthorn university tour (that the sorry Asa doesn’t even do anymore) and I will remember that day always. I was star struck the whole day. Listening to kapers account of where he started and his progression through time with shorthorns . He couldn’t hold back his tears of reverence when talking about the recent passing of Mary bell Cooksley. The principled passion he had for Shorthorns and cattle breeding in general was undeniable and something everyone should aspire to. Impossible to have walked away that day without having a steepened respect for Mr. Kaper. Beautiful place he had and a pasture full of fine shorthorns grazing just primo pastures. He ribbed me good that day (and for years after) after asking me which of his cows I liked the best. I gazed across what had to be close to 100 cows and pointed to a beautiful dark even Roan. Sitting on a trailer he turned and said of all these cows you pick the only one out here I didn’t breed. Truthfully I was embarrassed for a moment- he smiled and said I can’t blame you that’s one of the best cows out here. I wouldn’t have added her to my closed herd if she (a cow from haumont) wasn’t special. Mr kaper undoubtedly inspired many breeders and I hope his legacy in this breed is remembered for many years to come.
