Bob Avila Yellowstone: Season finale pays heartfelt tribute to legendary horseman

Yellowstone has returned for its explosive final episode on The Paramount Network and Paramount+. The finale indulged fans with some long-awaited answers about what would happen to the Dutton ranch following John's (Kevin Costner) death.

A title card appeared on the screen before the drama had even begun to unfold. It read: "This episode is dedicated to Bob Avila. See you down the dusty trail, Amigo.”

Bob Avila was a respected horseman who died on November 9, when he was 72 years old. Not only was he a member of the National Reining Horse Association’s Hall of Fame, he was also a two-time winner of the World’s Greatest Horseman title.

His father was a rodeo cowboy and his mother would teach young children how to ride horses, so working with the beautiful animals was always in his blood. He went on to raise and train horses before passing his knowledge down to others.

Avila actually made an appearance in season three of Yellowstone, titled I Killed a Man Today, as the series often features real-life cowboys.

Bob, who was originally from Redwood City, made $381,339.94 in National Reining Horse Association earnings and $1,113,022.09 in National Reined Cow Horse Association (NRCHA) earnings.

After 18 years on their ranch in Temecula, he moved to Scottsdale where he lived until the time of his death.

Despite being in his early 70s, he was still very active in the industry and was a businessman as well as a horseman.

During more than 30 years partnered with Professional's Choice, he created an extensive line of bits and spurs.

He would later go on to share his wisdom and became a highly sought-after mentor.

He offered training and advice through books and videos, sharing his training methods and tips with the wider world.

He left behind his wife, Dana Avila and his son, BJ Avila. His cause of death has not been publicly announced.

Yellowstone is available to watch on Paramount+