Nebraska family carries on patriarch’s Angus legacy

For many people, raising cattle isn’t just a job —it’s a legacy passed down from generation to generation.

To celebrate National Beef Month, we want to introduce you to a Nebraska family that was determined to carry on — even after tragedy struck.

Keith Bartos began Frederick Angus over 50 years ago with a dream of producing outstanding cattle. Bartos started adding a few registered cows to the herd, and by 2009, 65 percent of the herd was registered Angus beef.

Bartos lost a battle with cancer in 2007, but with dedication and determination, his family continues on his legacy today.

“He loved people, in general, and was always wanting to know more about somebody and have a genuine concern for everyone,” says Bartos’ daughter, Jemi Frederick. “There wouldn’t have been any way to continue this without all of the volunteer help.”

Frederick runs the ranch with her husband, Brent, and their two children. Today, Fredrick Angus runs 400 cow-calf pairs, along with up to 1,500 heads of start-to-finish feedlot cattle. Each year in February, they host an annual sale where they sell between 60 and 100 yearling bulls, and around 100 bred heifers.

“When we look to the future, it’s all about those two kids and the opportunities that we can put in front of them for when they’re deciding their career choices,” she says.

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