Charlie Battles was a man of many talents and accomplishments. He was a champion steer wrestler, successful rancher, and even the ex-husband of country music star Reba McEntire. His life was filled with triumphs and challenges, both in and out of the rodeo arena. Let’s take a closer look at the story of this remarkable man.
Who Was Charlie Battles?
Charlie Battles was born on March 9, 1945, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. From a young age, he developed a passion for the rodeo way of life. He honed his skills and became one of the top steer wrestlers in the country. He was a gifted steer wrestler who earned numerous championships and accolades throughout his career. In addition to his success in the rodeo arena, Battles was also a dedicated rancher and owner of the Charlie Battles PRCA Rodeo Livestock Company.
His life took a turn when he married country music singer Reba McEntire, a relationship that would eventually come to an end. Despite facing challenges in his personal life, Battles continued to contribute to the world of rodeo until his passing on April 21, 2013.Battles won multiple championships in the International Rodeo Association (IRA) during the late 1960s and early 1970s. His prowess in the arena made him a respected figure in the rodeo community.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Oklahoma, Charlie Battles was surrounded by the culture of ranching and rodeo. He learned the ropes of working with livestock and developed a strong work ethic that would serve him well throughout his life.
After graduating from high school, Battles served in the U.S. Army as an Armor Intelligence Specialist in Germany from 1962 to 1965. This experience shaped his character and gave him a sense of discipline that he carried with him in his future endeavors.
Charlie Battles’ Career As A Steer Wrestler
Charlie Battles’ career as a steer wrestler was nothing short of impressive. He dominated the IRA circuit, winning championships in 1968, 1970, and 1971. His skill and technique in the arena were unmatched. Battles also qualified for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in 1974, which is the pinnacle of rodeo competition. He competed against the best in the business and proved that he was among the elite steer wrestlers of his time.
In addition to his individual success, Battles was also known for his sportsmanship and camaraderie with his fellow competitors. He was respected not only for his talent but also for his character and integrity.
Charlie Battles’ Marriage to Reba McEntire
In 1975, Charlie Battles married country music singer Reba McEntire. At the time, McEntire was just beginning her career and was not yet the household name she would later become. The couple met at a rodeo event where McEntire was performing. They hit it off and began dating, eventually tying the knot. Their marriage lasted for 12 years, during which time McEntire’s career skyrocketed.
Battles played a supportive role in his wife’s success, often accompanying her on tour and helping to manage her business affairs. He was a constant presence in her life during the early years of her career.
Later Life And Third Marriage
After his divorce from Reba McEntire, Charlie Battles continued to work in the rodeo industry. He founded the Charlie Battles PRCA Rodeo Livestock Company in 1995, which provided high-quality livestock for rodeo events across the country. Battles was known for his eye for good stock and his commitment to producing top-notch rodeo animals. His company became a respected name in the industry, and he worked tirelessly to maintain its reputation.
In 1998, Battles married his third wife, Donna Granger. The couple resided in Sulphur, Louisiana, where they ran their rodeo stock operation together. They were happily married until Battles’ passing in 2013.
Charlie Battles’ Health Struggles And Passing
In his later years, Charlie Battles faced some health challenges. He battled heart problems and underwent multiple surgeries to address these issues. Despite his health struggles, Battles remained active in the rodeo world and continued to work with his livestock company. He was a fighter both in and out of the arena, and he never let his challenges keep him down.
Sadly, on April 21, 2013, Charlie Battles passed away at his home in Sulphur, Louisiana. He was 68 years old. His death was a loss felt deeply by the rodeo community and by those who knew and loved him.
Conclusion: Remembering Charlie Battles
Charlie Battles lived a life full of accomplishment, adventure, and love. He excelled as a steer wrestler, winning multiple championships and earning the respect of his peers. He was also a successful rancher and rodeo stock contractor, providing top-quality animals for events across the country. But perhaps what Battles will be most remembered for is his character. He was a man of integrity, a loyal friend, and a loving husband. His marriage to Reba McEntire, though it ended in divorce, was a significant chapter in both of their lives.
Though he faced challenges in his later years, Battles never lost his fighting spirit. He continued to work hard and pursue his passions until the very end. The rodeo world lost a true legend with the passing of Charlie Battles. But his legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the indelible mark he left on the sport he loved so much. Rest in peace, Charlie Battles.
