GENOLA, UT – Zandon R. Draper, a cowboy and member of our community. Zandon died last Saturday.
Funeral services for Zandon will be held in Genola, Utah, at the Genola Church, located at 50 N. Main Street. A “Celebration of Life” will take place on Thursday, January 23, from 7:00 to 9:00 PM, offering family and friends the opportunity to gather, share memories, and honor Zandon’s remarkable life. The funeral service will follow on Friday, January 24, at 11:00 AM. These gatherings will provide a space for all who loved Zandon to reflect on his life and find solace in one another’s company.
Zandon was a cowboy at heart, and the rodeo family that he cherished has now gained another incredible soul in heaven. Those who knew him best understood his deep connection to the rodeo, a place where his love for the sport and the camaraderie of his fellow riders shone through. Whether competing in the arena or offering encouragement to others, Zandon was always a source of inspiration and strength. His passion for life, paired with his fearless attitude, embodied the true spirit of a cowboy.
Zandon is survived by his loving parents, Shane and Shawnee Draper, who were the bedrock of his life. Their love and support shaped Zandon into the man he became—kind, determined, and always ready to lend a helping hand. Shane and Shawnee were not just his parents; they were his biggest fans, cheering him on at every turn. Their deep bond with Zandon will continue to be a source of strength as they navigate this profound loss.
For those of us who knew Zandon, his memory will live on in the stories we share, the laughter we remember, and the love he left behind. He had a way of touching people’s lives with his genuine heart and infectious spirit. Whether he was out in the arena, working hard, or simply enjoying time with family and friends, Zandon radiated warmth and joy. His smile was enough to brighten even the darkest day, and his presence brought comfort to those around him.
As we gather to celebrate Zandon’s life, let us reflect on the incredible impact he had on all of us. While our hearts are broken by his passing, we can find solace in the knowledge that his spirit lives on—in the rodeo family that meant so much to him, in the memories he created with his loved ones, and in the countless lives he touched. Zandon may no longer be with us in body, but his legacy of kindness, bravery, and love will remain with us always.
For those unable to attend the services, we ask that you keep Zandon’s family in your thoughts and prayers. This is an incredibly difficult time for them, but with the support of the community, they will find the strength to carry on. Together, we will honor Zandon’s life and ensure that his memory remains alive in our hearts.
Zandon R. Draper may have left this world, but his cowboy spirit will continue to ride with us, guiding us through life’s challenges with the same determination and heart that defined his every step. Rest in peace, Zandon. You will forever be missed, but never forgotten.