The television series “Mountain Men” on the History Channel has introduced audiences to individuals exhibiting remarkable resilience in the secluded mountainous regions of the United States. Among these characters is Rich Lewis, known as the “Houndsman of Ruby Valley,” celebrated for his prowess as a lion hunter. In contrast, Tom Oar, another compelling personality, presents a more understated yet fascinating profile.
Tom Oar, initially a rodeo cowboy, underwent a significant transformation, transitioning into the roles of a tanner and blacksmith. Nestled in the serene Yaak River Valley of Montana, Tom resides with his wife, Nancy. His life revolves around the intricate crafts of trapping and tanning animal hides, embodying a lifestyle that embraces the rugged beauty of nature.
While “Mountain Men” features various individuals with diverse backgrounds and skills, such as Eustace Conway, Marty Meierotto, Morgan Beasley, and Jason Hawk, this article will delve into the captivating journey of Tom Oar. Having forsaken modern conveniences, Tom embarked on this woodland adventure in the 80s, accompanied by his wife, shaping a narrative that intertwines with the untamed wilderness they call home.
Exploring the Enigmatic Life of Tom Oar
Tom Oar, a multifaceted individual, wears the hats of a seasoned hunter, skilled trapper, accomplished tanner, former rodeo cowboy, and a recognized reality television personality renowned for his appearance on “Mountain Men.” Hailing from a lineage of entertainers, Tom’s familial connection to the world of performance was deeply rooted, with his father, Chike Oar, extensively touring the nation as part of the “US Wild West Shows.” This familial influence is evident in Tom’s own journey.
Having spent nearly three decades immersed in the adrenaline-fueled world of rodeo, Tom’s prowess in the circuit was nothing short of impressive. His dedication and skill were exemplified by consistently securing a place within the top 10 ranks of the International Rodeo Association on multiple occasions, showcasing a remarkable career in the competitive realm of rodeo sports.
In terms of physical appearance, Tom Oar is characterized by a modest stature, distinguished by his short height, complemented by a distinctive ensemble of grey or white hair. Adding to his rugged charm, Tom sports a voluminous white beard, contributing to his seasoned and weathered look. Notably, he frequently adorns himself with signature cowboy hats, a poignant nod to his illustrious past as a rodeo cowboy. These iconic hats not only serve as a fashion statement but also stand as a testament to the glory days of his rodeo career, embodying a tangible link to his rich and adventurous history.
What is Tom Oar’s age?
Tom Oar, a native of Illinois, U.S., entered the world in March 1943, marking his birthdate. As of the present, Tom is 79 years old. Holding American nationality, he belongs to a Caucasian background. Growing up, Tom shared his childhood with an older brother named Jack Oar. This familial context provides a glimpse into Tom’s early life, shaping the foundations of the person he would become.
Early Years:
Tom Oar entered the world to parents Chike Oar and Mary Jance Crellin in Illinois, United States. His early years, marked by the 1940s toddlerhood, unfolded against the backdrop of World War II, a period of global turmoil and economic hardship. The post-war era brought its own set of challenges as America grappled with a recession post-1945, impacting families across the nation. Despite the uncertainties, the Oar family, rooted in a rural lifestyle, navigated the challenges with a resilience that differed from the experiences of their urban counterparts.
Growing up in the countryside outside Rockford, Illinois, Tom’s formative years were steeped in a profound connection with nature. His childhood days were characterized by explorations and outdoor adventures, laying the foundation for his lifelong passion for the wilderness. At the tender age of seven, Tom delved into the world of horse trick riding under the guidance of his father, showcasing an early aptitude for equestrian skills.
As he transitioned into his teenage years, Tom found encouragement and support from his mother, who played a pivotal role in boosting his morale and instilling confidence in his burgeoning rodeo talents. The adventure and thrill of the rodeo became a defining aspect of his adolescence, shaping the trajectory of his life.
In terms of formal education, details about Tom’s academic journey remain unclear, and there is no confirmation regarding any academic certificates validating his educational achievements. The focus of his early years seemed to revolve around the rich experiences of rural life and the development of skills that would later define his identity as a seasoned outdoorsman.
Professional Journey:
Tom’s expertise extends beyond the rodeo; he is a self-taught tanner, a skill he adopted to sustain himself after his cowboy career faced an unfortunate conclusion. Tom’s involvement in rodeo events, riding both horses and bulls, began in his teenage years and quickly gained recognition. By the age of 20, he was making a name for himself, consistently appearing on the Top 10 list compiled by the International Rodeo Association during the ’60s and ’70s. His daring feats included not only bucking horses but also the exhilarating challenge of bull riding, an endeavor that nearly cost him his life.
On February 14, 1978, Tom experienced a life-altering incident during a rodeo. As he entered the arena, a bull named “Wolly Bugger” delivered a forceful blow to his head, rendering him unconscious and tossing him around for two harrowing minutes. Tom emerged from the ordeal with extensive bruising and a severe concussion. Although he regained consciousness after three hours, the incident marked a turning point in his rodeo career.
Despite returning to the arena a month later, the thrill of rodeoing was never the same for Tom. Struggling to recapture his previous form, he ultimately made the decision to retire in 1981. This transition led him to explore alternative means of livelihood, and his journey into tanning and trapping began as he embraced a life deeply connected to the wilderness.
After retiring, Tom and his wife Nancy made the bold decision to relocate to remote Montana, initially settling in a log house. The arduous task of constructing their own home in the wilderness took them five years, relying on hunting, trapping, tanning, and foraging for sustenance, with the Yaak River serving as their water source. Grocery trips required a 50-mile journey from their secluded spot.
While Tom had previous trapping experience, he ventured into ancient tanning, teaching himself the traditional Indian method from a $3 book. Over the years, the couple has carved out a livelihood through trapping and tanning in the heart of the Montana woods.
Enduring the harsh Montana winters, Tom strategically utilizes the snow-covered landscape to set traps and hunt, capitalizing on the slowed-down movements of animals. In the summer, they venture into towns to sell handmade items crafted from buckskin, including brain-tanned buckskin, moccasins, shirts, and trousers.
Their quiet life in the mountains changed when Tom was approached to be part of the History Channel reality show Mountain Men, documenting their unique lifestyle. Tom agreed and has been a fixture on the show since its debut in 2012, making over 124 episode appearances.
Living off the land for over 30 years, the couple’s net worth, estimated at $300,000, stems largely from their earnings on the television show. In addition to his current marriage to Nancy, Tom was previously married to Jan Frazer, with whom he had two children, Chad Oar (born in May 1957) and Keelie Oar (born on February 14, 1966). Despite his children’s appearance on “Mountain Men” and their desire for him to move to Florida, Tom remains steadfast in his commitment to the traditional Montana lifestyle.
Tragedy struck when Tom faced the heartbreaking loss of his daughter, Keelie, who passed away on April 26, 2015, at the age of 49. Keelie, a devout Christian, had a career in medical sales.