Friday, JULY 25, 2025 |
Photo – Memorial to Teense Willford – Bigfoot99 file photo
Work continues on Saratoga’s Teense Wilford memorial.
Legendary master of ceremonies, Loren “Teense” Willford died last September at the age of 85 following a year-long battle with cancer. Known as the “Voice of the Valley,” Teense was a fixture at public gatherings in Saratoga, Encampment, and Riverside.
Following his death, community members formed the Happy Trails Committee. Known for ending performances with “Happy Trails to You,” Teense inspired the group’s mission to honor the late entertainer. Last October, the committee proposed creating a Teense Wilford memorial at the corner of Bridge Avenue and 1st Street.
Speaking at the July 15th Saratoga Town Council meeting, Happy Trails Committee member Judy Hamel provided an update on the Teense Wilford memorial. Hamel said the bronze statue of Teense, which will be set on the existing bench in downtown Saratoga, is currently in development.
Hamel said the sculptor is expected to present his final design to the Happy Trails Committee in the coming weeks. Once the design is approved, the statue will be sent to a bronze foundry for casting.
A wall has already been built by the memorial bench. Hamel complimented R.G. Raymer Construction for installing the wall. The Happy Trails Committee member said when completed, the bare wall will receive a stone veneer.
The veneer has been applied, and the wall is now clad in a cream-colored stone.
Hamel explained that local philanthropist Ryta Sondergard planted flowers at the memorial for the Fourth of July parade and continues to maintain the arrangement.
Next, the Happy Trails Committee member discussed the Teense Wilford memorial plaque. Hamel said the plastic sign currently on the wall is a temporary placeholder, serving as a mock-up for the final version, which will be cast in bronze.
Hamel said the Happy Trails Committee has chosen a flagpole for the Teense Wilford memorial and obtained both an American and Wyoming state flag. The Committee member added that the flagpole will be lit using solar power, reducing the amount of maintenance needed at the site.
And finally, Hamel discussed funding. The Happy Trails Committee member said the Teense Wilford memorial requires an additional $50,000 to complete.
Hamel said on Friday, August 1st, the Happy Trails Committee will launch a public fundraising campaign to raise the money needed to complete the memorial. Hamel encouraged everyone who knew Teense to donate to the fund.
Hamel thanked the organizations that have already contributed to the Teense Wilford memorial, including the Town of Saratoga, R.G. Raymer Construction, and Bridge Street Bargains.
