In memoriam: Carl Rimbey

Carl W. Rimbey, UC ANR Cooperative Extension advisor emeritus, died Sept. 3 at his home in Caldwell, Idaho. He was 94.

Rimbey earned his B.S. in plant science from UC Davis after serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II. He joined the UCCE in Tehama County. Over the course of his 30-year career, he moved from Tehama County to serve in Modoc County and Plumas County, before retiring from UCCE in Lassen County.

Rimbey's work mainly focused on cattle research and education of livestock producers in Lassen, Plumas and Sierra counties. 

“Carl's biggest achievement was helping identify the tick that caused foothill abortion in cattle,” said Glenn Nader, UCCE livestock and natural resources advisor emeritus. “That was a finding in this costly abortive disease for cattlemen.” 

“He had many projects on various methods of feeding cattle in the intermountain area,” said Nader. “He helped producers start several area feeder sales as a marketing option. His booming voice rarely needed a microphone.”

Nader joined UCCE in 1982, succeeding Rimbey as livestock and natural resources advisor in Lassen County.

“When he broke me in, he told me that a good advisor takes the knowledge of the university to build communities and people,” Nader said.  “Carl was a very straightforward person.  You never wondered where you stood with him, as he would always let you know. He came back after retirement and spent many a day making sure that I was not making too many mistakes. He made a big impact in my ability to make a difference for the communities that I worked in, and for that I'm greatly indebted.”

Rimbey is survived by sons Neil (Sue) and Glen (Barbie), four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

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