DONALD PAUL "DON" COX

Donald Paul “Don” Cox, 69, passed away on Wednesday, December 31, 2025 near Chugwater, Wyoming.

Don Cox was born on Sunday, November 11, 1956 in Cheyenne, Wyoming to Cleo Leon “Buck” and Mary Elizabeth “Betty” (Slagheck) Cox.  He was raised in Chugwater, Wyoming, a Wyoming rancher at heart.  Don graduated from Chugwater High School in 1976 and, shortly thereafter, married his high school sweetheart, Rhonda Jane McConnell, on June 12, 1976.

Together, Don and Rhonda raised two sons, Curt and Cody, instilling in them lifelong values that would guide them in both their personal and professional lives.

For several years, Don worked on a number of large ranching operations, gaining experience that would shape his future endeavors.  He later began his career with the Chugwater Telephone Company where he worked for more than two decades, eventually gaining a percentage of ownership prior to its sale. He was dependable and down-to-earth, the kind of man who did not say much but could always be counted on to show up and get the work done.

Don and Rhonda later fulfilled a lifelong dream when they were able to purchase their own ranch land and establish the Lazy GT Ranch, alongside Don’s custom artificial insemination business, Lazy GT Genetics. Through this endeavor, Don AI bred an incalculable number of cattle across Wyoming, earning the respect of fellow ranchers and livestock producers across the state, turning many customers into friends.

He did not seek attention or praise, but those who knew him understood his character by the way he lived, quietly and honestly. He believed in showing up, lending a hand when needed, and keeping his word.

Don had a deep love for his cattle and his dogs and was known for his warm, welcoming nature. He never met a stranger and, and outside of sorting cattle with his family, rarely spoke a cross word. Throughout his life, he maintained a strong curiosity and interest in learning, adopting new technologies and enjoying books by his favorite authors. One of Don’s favorite ways to spend his time was in the bleachers watching his grandchildren at sporting events and livestock shows.

Don was a proud member of the American Angus Association, the Red Angus Association of America, the Wyoming Angus Association, and the Masonic Lodge No. 23 of Chugwater.

He is survived by his sons, Curtis “Curt” Cox (Diane) of Casper, Wyoming and Cody Cox (Becca) of Torrington, Wyoming; along with grandsons, Carter and Cooper Cox; and granddaughters, Bristol and Rozlyn Cox.

He was preceeded in death by his father, Cleo Leon “Buck” Cox on December 26, 1996; mother, Mary Elizabeth “Betty” Cox on November 15, 1999; and his beloved wife, Rhonda Cox on October 27, 2007.

Services will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 1:00 P.M. at the Chugwater Valley Church, 120 Third Street, Chugwater with Pastor Ron Moore officiating.  A reception will follow the service.

Gorman Funeral Homes - Platte Chapel of Wheatland, Wyoming is in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences can be left for the family at www.gormanfh.com

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