Charlie Battles, a name etched in the annals of rodeo history, was more than just a champion steer wrestler. Born on March 9, 1945, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Charlie’s life was a diverse blend of personal triumphs and tribulations. Known for his tenacity and vigor, Charlie’s life journey is a story that unfolds multiple facets of his personality and achievements.
From his early days in the military to his transition into the world of rodeo, and his personal life marked by both love and conflict, Charlie Battles led a life that was far from ordinary. Let’s take a journey through the early years of Charlie Battles, and witness the making of a man who would eventually become a notable figure in the rodeo world.
Early Life and Military Service
Charlie Battles’ early years were spent in Talala, Oklahoma, where he was raised by his mother, Ocey Battles Pack, and his grandparents. The small-town life of Talala was a stark contrast to the thrilling adventures that awaited him in the future. The first significant turning point in his life came in 1962 when he decided to enlist in the US Army.
After undergoing basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, Charlie served as an Armor Intelligence Specialist in Germany. He spent over two years in Germany, showcasing his dedication and prowess, before being honorably discharged in 1965. The disciplined life and challenges of the military further honed Charlie’s resilience, preparing him for the strenuous world of rodeo that lay ahead.
Transition to Rodeo: A New Beginning
After his military service, Charlie Battles returned to his hometown, Talala, a place that held both his roots and his future. It was here that he began participating in rodeo events, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
The adrenaline rush, the cheers of the crowd, and the challenge of taming a beast, all resonated with Charlie’s adventurous spirit. He threw himself into the rigorous training required for rodeo events, exhibiting the same perseverance that he had shown during his military service.
As he began to participate in local rodeo events, his skill and dedication caught the attention of many. With every passing event, his reputation as a formidable rodeo competitor began to grow. Little did he know then, that this was only the start of a remarkable journey that would lead him to become a champion steer wrestler and an influential figure in the rodeo community.
The path was not easy, and the road was fraught with challenges. However, Charlie Battles was not one to back down. His early life and military service had equipped him with the strength and resilience to face any hurdle that came his way. As we delve deeper into his life, we will see how Charlie Battles transformed from a small-town boy into a celebrated rodeo champion.
Achievements in Rodeo: Champion Steer Wrestler
After his military service, Charlie’s passion for rodeo led him back to his hometown Talala, and that’s where he started to make waves in the rodeo scene. His military training, perseverance, and determination made him a natural fit for the demanding sport. He quickly became a fixture at local rodeo events, and his impressive performances did not go unnoticed.
He first tasted success in the rodeo ring in 1968, when he became a champion of the IRA Rodeo Association Steer Wrestling event. This achievement was only the beginning of Charlie’s illustrious rodeo career. He went on to win the same title again in 1970 and 1971, proving that his initial success was not a fluke.
Charlie’s rodeo career reached a pinnacle in 1974 when he qualified for the PRCA National Finals. The National Finals Rodeo, often referred to as the “”Super Bowl of rodeo,”” is a prestigious event that brings together the best of the best in the rodeo world. Charlie’s participation in this event underscored his status as one of the top steer wrestlers in the country.
Personal Life: Marriages and Family
While Charlie’s rodeo career was taking off, he was also building a life outside the rodeo ring. In 1966, he married his first wife, and they had two sons together, Lance and Coty. However, their marriage ended in a divorce.
In 1975, Charlie married country music star Reba McEntire, marking the beginning of one of the most talked-about unions in the country music and rodeo worlds. Their marriage also coincided with the rise of Reba’s career, and Charlie played a significant role in managing her early career.
In 1998, Charlie married for the third time. His wife, Donna Granger, was a constant support in his life, especially during his later years when health problems began to take a toll on him.
Challenges and Divorce with Reba McEntire
Charlie’s marriage to Reba McEntire was a significant chapter in his life. However, their union was not without its challenges. As Reba’s career skyrocketed, Charlie reportedly struggled to cope with her growing fame. The strain on their relationship was evident, and allegations of Charlie’s controlling behavior and financial misconduct began to surface.
These issues, coupled with the inherent pressures of managing a thriving music career and a high-profile marriage, eventually led to their divorce in 1987. The end of their marriage was a significant milestone in both their lives, marking the end of a tumultuous yet influential period in their personal and professional lives.
Later Career: Rodeo Livestock Company
Post his active rodeo career, Charlie Battles turned his passion for rodeos into a business venture. He purchased a small ranch near Stringtown, Oklahoma. Living in the heart of the country that he loved, he continued to participate in rodeos until about 1993. But his connection with the world of rodeo did not end there.
In 1995, Charlie started the Charlie Battles PRCA Rodeo Livestock Company. His new venture was based in Detroit, Texas, a small town that would become his new home for many years. This company was a testament to his love for rodeos and his extensive knowledge of the sport. Through this company, Charlie continued to contribute to the world of rodeo, ensuring that the tradition and thrill of the sport lived on.
Health Struggles and Final Years
Charlie’s later years were marked by significant health struggles. In 2006, he suffered a major stroke, which left him completely disabled. Despite the difficulties that came with his health condition, Charlie demonstrated resilience and strength, much like he had throughout his life.
After the stroke, Charlie and his wife, Donna Granger, moved to Sulphur, Louisiana. Donna stood by him, caring for him in his time of need. The love and support that Donna provided during these challenging times was a testament to their bond. Through the highs and lows of life, Charlie remained a strong figure, embodying the spirit of the rodeo until the end.
Legacy and Impact on Rodeo
Charlie Battles left an indelible mark on the world of rodeo. His achievements as a champion steer wrestler, his contributions as a stock contractor, and his passion for the sport have made him a notable figure in rodeo history.
Charlie’s legacy lives on through his wife Donna, his sons Lance and Coty, his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They, along with the countless individuals Charlie inspired throughout his life, continue to remember him for his tenacity, his love for the sport, and his larger-than-life personality.
Apart from his family, the rodeo community also continues to remember Charlie. His impact on the sport and his influence on the rodeo community are significant and continue to be felt even today. Charlie Battles’ life and his contributions to rodeo are a testament to his dedication and love for the sport.
Remembering Charlie Battles
Charlie Battles was more than just a rodeo champion. He was a dedicated soldier, a loving husband and father, a successful businessman, and above all, a resilient fighter. His life was a blend of personal triumphs and trials, each shaping the man that he was.
From his early days in Talala, Oklahoma, to his later years in Louisiana, Charlie’s journey was filled with adventure, passion, and resilience. His story continues to inspire, reminding us of the spirit of the rodeo and the strength of a man who lived his life to the fullest.
Charlie Battles’ legacy continues to live on, in his family, in the rodeo community, and in the hearts of those who knew him. As we remember Charlie Battles, we celebrate a life well lived, a life that continues to inspire and motivate, a life that was truly extraordinary.
