The 915 has lost the Franklin Mountain and Fit Fam icon, Bob the Goat.
Bob, who was estimated to be at least nine, passed away while being relocated from the Franklin Mountains to a local farm.
The reason for his relocation was due to Bob’s own health.
This October, the Texas Parks & Wildlife department wants to move more wild sheep into the Franklin Mountains. Bob was carrying a disease with him, so to not risk the spread of the disease to other bighorn sheep, Bob needed to be moved.
“The domesticated sheep do have a bacterium that is dangerous,” said Robert Gomez, a biology doctorate student. “Considering they’re trying to bring back the native bighorn sheep, unfortunately, it’s something that had to happen for the better good of the native species.”
While bighorn sheep will continue to roam the Franklin Mountains, it’ll be difficult to find another goat as iconic as Bob himself.
Bob rose to fame in El Paso after some exclusive groups of hikers got to see him living his sublime life, one which was further documented with content by Fit Fam.
“A majestic video of Bob the Mountain Goat delighting in today’s rainfall,” and “Bob the Mountain Goat himself made an appearance to soak up the beautiful weather,” are all social media videos that won over the city’s hearts.
Even though Bob’s rise to fame was initially based on a laugh, the El Paso community decided to rally behind the goat to spread joyfulness.
“He was an icon at the end of the day,” said junior Esteban Valdez. “I would see him on Fit Fam, (he) brought positive vibes.”
Bob’s influence was extended through city screens and state borders. As when speaking to freshman Ella Phillips, who recently moved from Northern Illinois to attend UTEP, instantly provided her condolences over Bob’s passing.
“I think it’s sad, he seemed like a cool guy,” said Phillips. “I would(‘ve) love(d) to meet him.”
Those who have followed Bob for an increased number of years feel an even larger attachment that’s hard to let go of.
“There’s also going to be that missing piece,” said junior Frankie Torres. “But I think with time and togetherness, we can slowly move forward, and progress.”
In all honesty, not many people got the chance to see Bob in person. Just two years ago KLAQ published a story about the goat, headlined “You’re Lucky if you see Bob the Goat along the Franklin Mountains.”
Bob’s impact wasn’t made from his interactions in person, it was created from his outreach through any medium of communication, allowing Bob to have the chance to inspire all his supporters.
And his departure from the world has motivated Miners across campus to enhance their lives, in a way that would’ve made Bob proud.
“I will hike in his honor,” said junior Steven Pitchkolan.
Bob’s legacy is one that will live forever.
And the 915 only speaks the truth when declaring that Bob is, indeed, the G.O.A.T. of goats.
Sebastian Perez-Navarro is a staff reporter for the Prospector and can be reached at [email protected]
