J.R. Simplot’s Cowboy Hat Returned to Family

J.R. Simplot’s cowboy hat has finally been returned to his family, nine months after it was stolen from a floral arrangement set up at Qwest Arena after Simplot passed away. The cowboy hat was a symbol of J.R. Simplot, who had worn it for about 25 years, so his family was absolutely thrilled to get it back.

The founder of an agricultural supply company that specialized in potato products, J.R. Simplot was an entrepreneur and philanthropist who, at the time of his death in May of 2008, was also the oldest billionaire on the Forbes 400. He was 99 years old.

A great story in the Idaho Statesman talks about how the cowboy hat was finally returned. Turns out the newspaper had a big hand in its return: On February 22, the newspaper’s “Ask Tim” column urged the thief to call the paper. The next week, sure enough, someone called and agreed to return the cowboy hat so long as there would be a guarantee of anonymity. The caller said they hadn’t actually been the one to take J.R. Simplot’s cowboy hat, it was someone else who had taken it and later entrusted it ot them.

The Statesman story also posed the question, “Why would someone steal J.R. Simplot’s hat?” The answer given by the caller was “stupidity.” They explained it was an impulsive act that was “almost instantly regretted.”

J.R. Simplot’s cowboy hat has become Idaho’s famous hat, off-white in color with green and orange feathers. The cowboy hat was given as a gift by Tom Basabe, J.R. Simplot’s longtime friend, and was purchased and a western wear store in Boise, Idaho.

Simplot’s son, Scott, told the Statesman that in time the cowboy hat would likely be displayed publicly in an appropriate setting.”

Best wishes to the Simplot family — we’re happy to hear this very important and meaningful symbol of the late J.R. Simplot has been rightfully returned.