WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis, both R-Wyo., paid tribute to a Wyoming agricultural icon, Pat O’Toole, on the floor of the U.S. Senate.
Pat O’Toole passed away from complications following a stroke on February 25th, 2024.
Pat testified many times before committees in the U.S. Congress as President of the Family Farm Alliance. Pat served six years in the Wyoming House of Representatives representing Carbon County. Prior to the Family Farm Alliance, he was appointed by President Clinton to the Western Water Policy Commission.
Pat owned and operated Ladder Ranch with his wife, Sharon. The ranch is located outside of Savery, Wyoming and straddles the state line with Colorado. The extensive cattle and sheep operation has been in Sharon’s family since 1881.
Click here to watch remarks by Senator Barrasso.
“Today we honor the life of an agricultural icon, Pat O’Toole. Pat was a true cowboy and a dear friend,”said Senator Barrasso. “I deeply admire Pat for his passionate work on conservation, water, and agriculture. He truly made a difference by partnering with others – regardless of whether they were Republican or Democrat. Pat was as reliable in a committee’s witness seat as he was in a horse’s saddle. He leaves behind a legacy driven by his passion for conservation and love of the land, especially in the Little Snake River Valley. It was a great joy to know and to work with him.”
Click here to watch remarks by Senator Lummis.
“There was no one more dedicated to Carbon County or the Cowboy State, than Pat,” said Senator Lummis. “I had the privilege of meeting Pat when we served together in the Wyoming Legislature. His stories and infectious smile loomed large. He quickly earned the reputation for finding common ground with anyone and we always looked forward to hearing his stories.”
Senators Barrasso and Lummis were joined by Colorado Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper, both D-Colo. Their remarks honoring Pat O’Toole can be viewed here.
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