The Hayes Center, Nebraska, community is mourning the loss of Jett Sjeklocha, a young man remembered by friends, family and members of the regional rodeo community for his generosity, friendship and the connections he built throughout his life.
Sjeklocha died on September 11, 2026, at the age of 22, according to a current death report. Carpenter Memorial Chapel in North Platte is identified as assisting with arrangements.
His passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from people who knew him, particularly those connected with Hayes Center and the rodeo community.
Remembered as a Genuine Friend
Tributes shared following Sjeklocha’s death describe him as a kind and generous person who made a lasting impression on those around him.
One friend, Don Burkhart, remembered Sjeklocha as one of the genuinely good people he had known and reflected on how rodeo brought the two together. Another friend, Garrett Wall, shared a personal memory of Sjeklocha’s generosity, recalling that he had once given him the shirt off his back.
The tributes paint a picture of a young man whose friendships extended well beyond his hometown.
A Life Connected to Rodeo
Rodeo was an important part of Sjeklocha’s life.
His connection to the sport is documented through Mid-Plains Community College, where he was a member of the MPCC Rodeo Team. In February 2023, the college identified Jett Sjeklocha of Hayes Center among the team members recognized during its annual rodeo banquet.
Earlier MPCC records also list Sjeklocha as a member of the college’s rodeo team during the 2021 season.
Regional rodeo records further document his participation in bull riding and identify him as representing Hayes Center, Nebraska.
A Young Athlete Remembered
Before his college rodeo career, Sjeklocha was also involved in athletics at Maywood-Hayes Center.
A 2021 Maywood Public Schools report identified him among the school’s senior football players and praised the team’s senior class for its leadership and hard work.
These records show a young person who was involved in his school, athletics and the wider agricultural and rodeo communities around Hayes Center.
Details Surrounding His Death
Sjeklocha’s death was reported as occurring on September 11, 2026.
However, a reliable public source confirming the official cause and manner of death was not located during this review. Beca