Jeffery Lewis Ankerholz, 65, of Hutchinson, the last cowboy, died June 4, 2020, at his home. He was born May 17, 1955, in Stafford, the son of Justin L. and S. Colene (Wagner) Ankerholz.
Jeff graduated from Buhler High School and was a truck driver for many years before retiring. He also enjoyed training and riding mules.
In October 1998, Jeff married Ramona Lynn Nichols in Hutchinson. She survives.
Also surviving are brother, Kenneth Ankerholz, Inman; niece, Lana Lambert (Josh, Inman; and a host of friends.
Memorial services are pending and will be announced at a later date.
Memorial donations are suggested to Jeff Ankerholz Memorial Fund, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.
The following tribute was written by a dear friend:
The last cowboy, our husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend, died Thursday, June 4, 2020.
The last cowboy died Thursday. To describe you, one would simply say, “he must’ve been the character that PEA EYE From Lonesome Dove was based on.”
The last cowboy, died Thursday. Your wedding was a beautiful thing, you and your bride riding mules on hilltop, all of us in our cowboy finest! We were so honored to be included!
The last cowboy died on Thursday. The world is lesser for it. Our heart aches for the pain left behind. We will all miss your slow deliberate choice of words and the Kansas twang that could not be missed!
You’re beautiful bride Mona, who is strength, is obvious strength of soul, strength of character, whose strengths of love will surely be tested.
The last cowboy died on Thursday. The world is a lesser place without you. We wish we could’ve spoke to you more often, we wish we had time for more time around the fire.
We hope that wherever you are now that your mule is young and fast. You loved riding your mules with your wife on the Kansas Prairie, free!
The last cowboy died on Thursday. Our friend, get on your mule. Ride with the wind! Your hat, chaps and saddle will forever be hanging in your Bride’s cabin, waiting. Your strength of character was amazing. You were honest, hard-working and a friend to those in need even when those close to you took advantage of your generosity. You never let it affect the way you treated humans with kindness.