11/01/2026
We are extremely saddened to share the passing of lesson horse Popeye.
Popeye has been a staple in the WELCA lesson program since he arrived in 2009. Over his many years at WELCA, Popeye has taught hundreds of people how to ride and helped even more fall in love with horses.
Although we loved to joke about Popeye being a grumpy old man, it was clear to see that he will always be an irreplaceable horse in every way. He took care of every single rider who ever had the pleasure of sitting on his back whether it was your first time on a horse or you were a more experienced rider needing a confidence boost. Popeye was safe, steady and an amazing listener, even when his littlest riders legs didn’t reach past the saddle. Even though Popeye was typically bossy in his pen (even when he was the oldest one out there!), he was a gentle and caring teacher for all people.
While Popeye will be remembered for many things, his personality will be missed most. You always knew when his bucket was coming as his excited nickers could be heard down the barn! And it always brought a smile to everyone’s face when you caught him doing his classic Popeye lip wiggles! He was as smart as can be and would often help his riders out with steering, patterns and knowing where to go just from watching the other horses in a lesson!
It is impossible to put into words all the things that Popeye shared, achieved and helped do for WELCA and its community in his time with us. He was a one of a kind horse who earned his greener pastures a million times over.
We will miss his velvety soft fur, his nickers and just saying hi on the way by to such a sweet gelding. Popeye will be missed by staff, students and many others who got to know him over the years. We were so incredibly lucky to have such a kind, forgiving and trustworthy horse with us as long as we did. May Popeye forever roam greener pastures.
