Jonathan Kittle

Jonathan Jake Kittle Rancher, environmentalist and large-than-life figure, Jonathan ("Jake") Kittle passed away in Tucson on January 19, 2011. Tall, dark and handsome, he knew everybody and everybody knew him. Jake was born in San Francisco and raised in Marin County, CA. He attended college at Yale in 1949, but transferred to the U of A, where he received a degree in animal husbandry. Years ago, he owned and operated the Muleshoe Ranch north of Benson, followed by ranches in Show Low, AZ, the famous V-R Ranch near Glenrock, WY, and another in Las Cruces, CA. After living in Jackson, WY, for a number of years, Jake returned to AZ with his dogs and chickens, first to Sonoita and then to a house on a hill in Patagonia. With his broad smile and easygoing manner, Jake made friends wherever he lived. Having had no children of his own, he had a special fondness for kids, who looked up to him literally and figuratively. But he never looked down on them. Best friends with John Donaldson of the Empire Ranch near Sonoita and rancher Les Armour, also of Sonoita, Jake was active with the establishment of the Empire Ranch Foundation, served on the board of the Sonoran Institute in Tucson, and was actively involved with the Rocky Mountain Quarter Horse Association, Sonoita Crossroads Forum, and SEAZ Land Trust. Survived by his brother, George of Canaan, CT, he leaves behind many happy memories. He had a great ride and will be sorely missed. Memorials are planned for Jackson, WY, and Patagonia this Spring. Contributions should go to the Sonoran Institute and Empire Ranch Foundation. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOME, Dodge Chapel.