TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — Former Tucson Rodeo Committee General Manager Gary Williams died at age 73, a Tucson Rodeo spokesperson told KGUN 9.
Williams, who retired in 2021, served in the role for 26 years.
He was named as the organization's first general manager in 1995.
"He had huge passion about this sport. He loved his job. He cared about the Tucson rodeo, the community, Tucson, everything," said friend and Tucson Rodeo Chairman Jose Calderon.
"And I think when you have all those things going with you right there, you're going to do a good job, and he did...its amazing how many people have contacted us. And just really gave their feelings about how they feel about Gary. He touched a lot of people," Calderon said.
Photo: Tucson Rodeo
He also served on the Pro Rodeo Committee Executive Council, representing more than 600 professional rodeos in North America.
Williams was a member of the organization's board of directors and president of the Turquoise Rodeo Circuit, which encompasses all professional rodeos in Arizona and New Mexico.
He was also on the Wrangler Jeans National Rodeo Advisory Council.
Tickets for La Fiesta de Los Vaqueros Tucson Rodeo are now on sale. The 98th Tucson Rodeo will go from Feb. 18-26.
Organizers say plans are in place to honor Williams at the next Tucson Rodeo.
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