Kcees Deadly Zipper

With heavy hearts, we honour the life of Kcees Deadly Zipper — “Deadly” to those who knew him best — a great stallion and later gelding who was laid to rest today after a gloriously long, sound, and deeply loved life.

For Jason Somnitz, Deadly was more than a horse. He was the once-in-a-lifetime kind — the “best free horse” Jason never expected to own, and the one he had the honour of being caretaker and weekly rider for over 14 years. In Jason’s words, when you sat on Deadly, you knew you were sitting on greatness — even at an advanced age — the kind that stays with you long after the last ride.

Deadly’s story is one of both pedigree and performance. Foaled in 1994, he was a sorrel stallion by Kay Cee Leaguer (1990 World Champion Junior Western Pleasure) and out of Pat Dollie Pine (AQHA Champion and full sister to the legendary Zippo Pine Bar). He carried those bloodlines with the kind of presence and ability that made him a standout in the ring — and later, a proud source of talent as a sire.

A proven show horse

Deadly’s accomplishments in the show pen reflect years of work, quality, and consistency:

• Reserve Champion, NOQHA Futurity (1997) — Tallmadge, Ohio

• Circuit Champion, Aged Stallions (1998) — TSQHA Summer Circuit, Ford City, Pennsylvania

• Register of Merit, Junior Western Pleasure (38.5 points)

• Superior Amateur Western Pleasure (63 points)

• *1998 World Show Qualifier, Amateur Western Pleasure

But as impressive as those wins were, what made Deadly truly special was how he stayed himself through it all — and how he kept showing up with the same heart and honesty, year after year.

A lasting legacy through his offspring

Deadly’s influence extended far beyond his own show record. His get have earned 300+ points across six different events, and he is recognized as a Congress Top Ten Producer — the kind of legacy that speaks to both versatility and true breeding value.

Among his most notable offspring are:

• Izzy A Deadly Zipper — triple Superior Trail horse and Congress Top Ten finisher

• Willy Be Deadly — multiple circuit awards, points, and futurity placings

• Iz Dizzy Deadly — year-end awards, points, and a World Qualifier in Ranch Riding and Trail

Remembered most for who he was

For all the titles and accolades, Jason’s tribute makes it clear: Deadly’s greatest gift was the life he lived with his people — remaining sound, still loping down the rail like the old days, right up to the end. From watching him win futurities and circuits, to starting his babies and helping launch their show careers, to that final ride less than a week ago — Deadly’s story is stitched into decades of memories.

Jason offered heartfelt thanks to those who helped care for Deadly in his final days — Dr. Noah Bianco, and Jan, for giving Deadly a home in his later years — along with everyone who played a part in this remarkable horse’s 32 years.

Today, the barn feels quieter. The world feels a little different. And yet, what remains is the mark of a truly great horse — one who gave his people everything he had, and then some.

Rest easy, Big Man.

There will never be another remotely like you.