A dedicated farm and ranch woman who took over the family meat-processing plant was recognized as Cowbelle of the Year during the Southwestern Colorado Livestock Association’s annual dinner Saturday night.
Nonie Bane, of Cortez, smiled with pride as she accepted the award from her friend Tammy Russell, president of the Cowbelles.
“She has always been there for everyone, and is a lifetime supporter of the beef industry,” Russell said.
Bane was raised in a generational farming and ranching environment in Montezuma County, helping her parents raise sheep, cattle, rabbits and chickens, and wheat, beans and hay.
Her stellar work ethic began early. A story of Bane’s eagerness to help as a 10-year-old drew laughter from the crowd.
“Her Dad hurt his back, so Nonie drove the pickup with a 12-year-old relative,” Russell said. “One steered, and the other worked the pedals underneath. It took cooperation when they came to a stop sign!”
After graduating from Montezuma-Cortez High School, Bane earned a degree in home economics from Fort Lewis College.
She married and continued teaching while raising daughters Leigh Ellen and Dee Lyn. Her adventurous spirit served her well in Okinawa, Japan, where she taught kindergarten.
Later on, she took over her parents’ business, Bane Custom Processing, on County Road 25.
“Her children and grandchildren, along with her partner Willie Trujillo continue to furnish the community with a much-needed service,” Russell said.
Bane is a longtime member of the Cowbelles. She has held the offices of president, vice president and parliamentarian, and is a fixture on committees and at information booths.
“It’s a great evening, and a great honor,” she said after the award ceremony. “They did a good job keeping it a secret. I’ve been with the Cowbelles for so many years. It’s a wonderful organization.”
jmimiaga@the-journal.com
