In Memory JAN DAVIS
Jan Franklin Davis, a rancher, a cowboy, and a true gentleman, from Atascadero, went to be with the Lord Wednesday, October 20, 2021, at the age of 80. Jan was born April 27, 1941, in Orange County, graduated from Garden Grove High School in 1959, and then Santa Ana Community College. His early years were spent farming row crops, playing basketball and hunting throughout the western states. However, he fell in love with the ranching lifestyle from time spent working on the Irvine Ranch “round-ups.” After serving in the National Guard, Jan and his brother moved to the Central Coast in 1965 and started a cattle and farming operation. Jan had two sons, Dusty and Chad, with his first wife, Doreen Melendy. In 1977, he married Patti Lewis, and they had two daughters, JanaLee and Lacey. Jan saw each day as an opportunity. Over the years, he was heavily involved in the SLO County Cattleman’s,
successfully owned and operated the Templeton Livestock Market along with his partners, served as a director on the Mid-State Fair Board, and had other business ventures. However, it wasn’t uncommon to find Jan on a good horse with a loyal dog at this side. He loved being a cowboy. Jan’s family will always see him as larger than life, with a strong faith and encouraging and contagious smile. He was a humble coach, mentor and friend, who will be deeply missed by many, but his impact will never be forgotten. Jan is preceded in death by his father, James, mother Velda, brother Gary and son Dusty. Jan is survived by wife of 44 years, Patti; son Chad; daughters JanaLee Johnsen (Brian), Lacey Lockard (Wes); sister Judy Trick (Larry); and four grandchildren with one on the way, Garret, Jolie, Claire and Luke; as well as nieces, nephews and their families. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to The Jan F. Davis Memorial Fund to benefit youth in agriculture at the Mid-State Fair. Mail to SLO County Cattlemen, P.O. Box 302, Paso Robles, CA 93447.
RICHARD SHIFFRAR Richard Thomas Shiffrar passed away peacefully on Friday, Oct. 1, 2021 in Santa Maria at the age of 77 years old. He was born on July 22, 1944 in Santa Maria. He attended Arroyo Grande High School and Allan Hancock College, and played football at both schools. In 1968 he attained a Bachelor of Science degree in Soil Science from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, and after graduation he ventured into the agriculture industry. As a first-generation Californian born to immigrant parents, Richard was a diligent and dedicated farmer. His work ethic was unrivaled, and he received great fulfillment from farming and ranching. His farming experience spanned over five decades and included planting vineyards, avocado orchards, seasonal row crops, flowers and blueberries. Richard and Susie Phelan met while growing up in Nipomo, California. They got married in 1970, and welcomed three children into their family: Lauri, Brian and Nell. Richard was a kind and dedicated father who selflessly provided for his family. He generously supported his three children in getting their college degrees, along with providing sage advice on all matters related to business and life. The grandchildren treasured visiting with him at the ranch whether it be riding on a tractor, feeding the cows, or watching his favorite hawks or owls 30 California Cattleman December 2021
fly overhead. His dog, Tip, was a constant joy for him and always by his side (when not chasing squirrels). He enjoyed outdoor pursuits such as fishing, hunting, camping and playing horseshoes. He appreciated art and antiques, as well as discussing football, politics and the stock market. For those family and friends lucky enough to enjoy his delicious barbeques, there will always be fond memories. A long-time resident of Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo Counties, he was blessed with many close relatives and friends throughout his lifetime. He is survived by his wife of over fifty years, Susie Phelan Shiffrar, their three children and families: Lauri Shiffrar, Brian Shiffrar (Sara), Nell Shiffrar Greenberg (Joey), and grandchildren Emory, Donald, Vincent and Jacqueline. He was the youngest of twelve children and is survived by two sisters, Betty Tremper and Dolores Brum, along with numerous nephews, nieces and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary Shiffrar, along with nine of his siblings. Richard will always be remembered as a man of integrity, a devout husband, a strong father and a loyal friend. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Cal Poly College of Agriculture, Food & Environmental Sciences (CAFES). Donate at giving.calpoly.edu, select: CAFES Power of Doing Fund, and in the special requests for your donation write: In Memory of Richard Shiffrar. You may mail donations to: Cal Poly CAFES, 1 Grand Avenue, San Luis Obispo 93407 on the check memo include: CAFES Power of Doing Fund.
