Jarold Callahan, former American Angus Association president and chairman of the board, passed away unexpectedly on Dec. 23. Jarold was visionary in the cattle industry in a variety of roles. He led not only in the boardroom, but in the classroom, showring and pasture.
He served as president of Express Ranches for the last 27 years. Under his leadership, Express Ranches has been an innovative driver of balancing genetic advancement with phenotypic quality. Express has been the Association Roll of Victory Breeder of the Year for the last 12 years in a row, bringing home thousands of purple ribbons and show wins.
Jarold was passionate about passing on his love of livestock to youth. A world-renowned livestock evaluator, he coached judging teams at both Northeast Oklahoma A&M College and Oklahoma State University. He was recognized as the National Intercollegiate Livestock Coach of the Year four times while he was at OSU. Jarold was a highly accomplished judge and evaluated countless national shows.
Along with other Oklahoma leaders, Jarold’s influence led to the creation of Cattlemen’s Congress in 2021 and he was serving as the board president. The event has grown to be a world-class event, drawing exhibitors from across the United States.
Jarold grew up in Welch, Oklahoma on a diversified family farm and cattle operation and personally maintained significant cow-calf and feeding interests with his wife, Jennifer. Jarold has been recognized with numerous awards and recognitions but none higher than his induction into the Saddle and Sirloin Portrait Gallery in November, one of the highest honors in the livestock industry.
Our prayers are with Jarold’s family and the entire Express crew. His obituary will be posted once arrangements are made.
