BOYD AND HELEN ARNOLD
Boyd and Helen Arnold have been named the Grand Marshals of the 2025 Southeast Weld County Fair and Rodeo – a recognition that celebrates not only their deep roots in the community, but also a lifetime of dedication to agriculture, service, and family tradition.
A Legacy Rooted in Keenesburg
Boyd Arnold is a proud Keenesburg native, following in the footsteps of two generations before him who farmed and ranched in the area. His father, Daryl Arnold, served on the Southeast Weld County Fair Board for many years – alongside several uncles and cousins – making it a true family affair.
Boyd recalls youthful summers spent working at the fairgrounds with his brother Dwight while their father tended the farm. The reward? A coveted spot in the wild cow milking contest – a rite of passage for many local kids back then. At just 20 years old, after years of pitching in behind the scenes, Boyd found himself unexpectedly voted onto the Southeast Weld County Fair Board when Daryl decided to retire. And so began a 43-year journey of service.
A Fairgrounds Love Story
Fate stepped in at a fair dance at the Adams County Fairgrounds, where Boyd met Helen Frost. One of their early “dates” took place at the Southeast Weld County Fair rodeo. Boyd left Helen in the grandstands to work the chutes and push calves for the roping events. When the night ended and Helen was still there – with a smile rather than a grumble – Boyd knew he’d found someone special. They’ve now been married for 43 years.
Together, Boyd and Helen have dedicated their lives to the Fair, the land, and each other. Helen stood beside Boyd for those 43 years he served on the Fair Board, bringing not only support, but hands to help. Their children were raised with the fair in their blood – though not always enthusiastically. Boyd chuckles recalling the kids complaining that their friends were at the lake while they were spending their time working at the fairgrounds.
Building a Fair – Literally
In 2006, the fairgrounds relocated and Boyd and Helen were instrumental in the massive volunteer effort to make it happen. They donated their time, equipment, and even employees from their business, Arnold’s Custom Seeding, to help with the transition. Many of the old fairground’s structures live on today: the roof of the pig, sheep, and goat barn once covered the old main building; the cattle barn roof came from the old rodeo bleachers; and even the rabbit and chicken hitches made the move. Over three years, they, and other dedicated Fair Board families, hosted countless bingo nights to raise funds for the new panels in the pig, sheep, and goat barn.
From Farming to Reclamation and Conservation
After marrying, Boyd and Helen began farming together, later expanding into reclamation work with Arnold’s Custom Seeding, a successful business they eventually sold to the Huwa Family. Boyd also planted what some affectionately call a “forest” of trees around Keenesburg, donating many to the town of Keenesburg. In recognition of their environmental stewardship, the couple was named Conservationists of the Year in 2012.
Giving Back, Always
For over 25 years, the Arnolds have also been active in the Wray, Colorado area – farming, ranching, and staying closely involved in the Yuma County Cattlemen’s Association. Boyd and Helen are well-known for their willingness to lend a hand, whether it’s helping a neighbor or stepping in where extra work needs doing. They have long supported the Weld Central FFA Chapter and were also active in the many school and community groups, with Helen serving on the Keenesburg Elementary PTO for several years.
Even after their “retirement” from the Fair Board in 2023, Boyd and Helen remain fixtures behind the scenes, continuing to support the fair and rodeo they love so dearly. Their sons, Andy and Tim, now serve on the Fair Board, proudly continuing the Arnold family tradition.
Generations of Community Spirit
Today, Boyd and Helen’s legacy lives on through their children and grandchildren, all of whom reside in the Keenesburg area and remain deeply involved in the community. Erin and Rowdy Bydalek, with their children Blaine and Brylee; Andy and Brecken Arnold, with children Peyton and Alec; and Tim and Michaela Arnold, are all raising the next generation of 4-H participants and Southeast Weld County Fair exhibitors.
For the Arnold’s, the Southeast Weld County Fair and Rodeo is more than an annual event – it’s a way of life. It’s where roots run deep, hard work is honored, and neighbors become family.
