December 28, 1933
Byron has dedicated himself to the heritage and legacy of the Eatinger Ranch and to raising quarter horses. He’s received many awards on behalf of both and is a family man and community leader.
Byron was born on the Tate Ranch north of Brownlee, Nebraska on December 28, 1933 to Ralph J. and Norma (Tate) Eatinger. Siblings are older brother Ramon (deceased) and younger brother Ralph H. He married Mary Hora in 1953. They had three children: Wayne, currently operating the family ranch (5th generation), Marie Harrison of El Reno, OK and Dale of Cozad, NE. They also have 6 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.
Byron produced several AAA running horses and through the years attended many rodeos and using his own raised horses.
He belonged to the NSRA in the 50’s and 60’s competing in steer wrestling and saddle bronc riding, rodeoing with Aubrey Lord, Russ Nutter, Orville Gallino and others. He is a long time member of the Western Nebraska Cutters Association where he still competes.
1965- received the annual Cherry County Soil and Water Conservation District award
1971- Nebraska High School Rodeo Association president
1984- received the Range Manager of the Year award from the Society for Range Management
1993-President of the Nebraska Cattleman Association
1997-awarded Cattleman of the Year by the Nebraska Cattleman Association
2007-received 50 Year Legacy Award from the AQHA
Byron is the epitome of the exceptional Sandhills cowboy rancher.