Michael T. Canaday, who founded several businesses in Altamont and then a ranch in California, died from complications of cancer Thursday, May 9, 2024 after retiring to the area of Fort Worth, Texas.

His son, Jay Canaday, called his father’s battle with cancer “short but valiant.” He was 77 years old.

“He was skilled in training dogs to herd livestock of which he practiced and competed at a high level for decades,” his son wrote. “He also was a trusted mentor in dog training, livestock and entrepreneurship.

“Mike was born May 12, 1946 to Mary (Ermides Canaday) Menerey and Myron J. Canaday in Albany. He spent more than half his life living on a hobby farm in Altamont.

“After serving in the United States Army, he owned and operated many businesses over the years including used-car sales, a mechanic shop, excavating, snow-plowing and parking-lot sweeping. He always had a fresh angle on a way to earn a good living.

“His lifelong passion for breeding and training border collies to herd livestock began in the early 1980s. Living in the northeast region of the U.S., he was one of the premier dog handlers. He won the Northeast Border Collie Association (NEBCA) annual Championship with three different dogs (Jill, Ken, and Ben) in the ’90s.

“Additionally, he three-peated (1995-7) as the winner of the NEBCA North East Points Champion with a fourth dog (Robin). He also provided sheep for, hosted, or judged many competitions over the years.

“He began a new chapter in his life in 1999 when he moved to Coalinga, California, and married Jan (Jason) Canaday in 2001. There they operated a full-blown livestock ranch.

“Their business uses over 10,000 head of goats and sheep with natural land management techniques to prevent the spread of wildfire. They built it up to be one of the largest grazing operations in the state of California.

“This innovative business, paired with a technology start-up, appeared on an episode of ABC’s Shark Tank with their conglomerate company, Rent-A-Goat. They didn’t get a deal done, but the Sharks were enamored with Mike’s tough-guy, cowboy disposition.

“Mike enjoyed working with people and was a valuable mentor to many in dog training, working livestock, and business. Mike has helped many others get their start with livestock businesses of their own. Lots of stories have been shared of a few words of advice that were carefully selected when Mike was consulted on what someone should do next.

“Mike volunteered to lead organizations over the decades. He served on the board of directors, as well as various committees, in NEBCA and was the president of the United States Border Collie Handlers Association (USBCHA) for several years. While leading the USBCHA, he was instrumental in creating a class for cattle-dogs to compete.

“Mike will truly be missed by family and friends from coast to coast.”

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Michael T. Canaday is survived by his loving wife, Jan; his former wife, Pat; their son, Jay, and his wife, Jocelyn; his grandchildren, Ty, Mackena, and Bennett; his stepchildren, Tiffany (Joe) Mouren and Clif (Holly) Jason and their extended families.

His parents, Mary (Ermides Canaday) Menerey and Myron J. Canaday, died before him, as did his brother, Thomas M. Canaday.

A memorial service will be planned for a future date.

Memorial contributions may be made to either the American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Association.