September 9, 1957 –  January 7, 2018  Christopher Kenneth RuthvenWhitesboro resident, Christopher Kenneth Ruthven, passed away Sunday evening, January 7th 2018 at home in the arms of his wife.
Chris was born September 9th, 1957 in Mosgiel Dunedin, New Zealand. When he was 14, Chris left home to become a race horse jockey. Soon he outgrew the size limitations for this sport, and turned to the rodeo circuit. There he competed in multiple events, but was best known as New Zealand’s champion in Bull and Bronc riding.
Chris was always looking for adventure and a chance to learn new skills. He traveled from the race tracks of Japan, to the dude ranches in Canada. He finally came to the United States where he studied Natural Horsemanship and eventually met and married his wife Caren. Together they created C & C Colt Company, Inc.
Anyone who ever saw Chris work with a horse, knew he was truly gifted. Chris was always quick to smile, ready to help a friend and was no stranger to hard work. He could be seen baling hay from sun up to after sundown.
He is survived by his wife Caren Ruthven of Whitesboro, his mother Beverly Ruthven of Australia, and three sisters, Wendy of New Zealand, Judy and Shona of Australia.
He was preceded in death by his father Ken Ruthven and sister Lynn both of New Zealand.
The memorial service for Mr. Ruthven will be held under the direction of Meador Funeral Home in the Chapel in Gainesville on Saturday January 20, 2018 at 3:00 p.m.
A potluck to follow in the Meador reception hall. Potluck dish optional.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Chris Ruthven Memorial Fund at Landmark Bank in Whitesboro, TX.

Cowboy Prayer
Heavenly Father, I pause, mindful of
the many blessings you have bestowed upon me.
I ask that You will guide me in my life in such a manner
that when I make that last ride to the country up there,
where the grass grows lush and the water runs cool
that You’ll take me by the hand and say,
“Welcome home Cowboy!”
Amen