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One of the biggest blows to the community from the Waldo Canyon fire is the loss of the Flying W Ranch.

The tradition that is the Flying W Rangers started back in the '50s, with cowboys singing about simpler times when life revolved around the ranch. But after nearly 60 years in the community, the working cattle ranch has been completely wiped out.

Flying W wrangler Wayne Humphrey said, "My whole life has been spent out there. It's kinda like – you hate to use the term – but a death in the family."

Humphrey has spent his entire life at the Flying W. His father and uncle were wranglers in the '60s, '70s and '80s. Founder Marian Wolfe hosted his baby shower.

"I almost fell to the ground. It hit me hard. I've been up and down a roller coaster ever since," he said.

He and band leader David Bradley were walking the property last Tuesday as employees tried to save ranch antiquities and Bradley's home, which was located on the ranch.

"I still ain't over it and of course the house I live in is gone, the ranch is gone. There's one building standing and that's the library," Bradley said.

Bradley just moved to the Flying W from California, and despite losing everything but his guitars and cowboy gear, he's leaning on his band mates and his music.

"The wranglers, we're holding together pretty good. We're ready to go out and play music as much as we can and entertain," Bradley said.

With the loss of the Flying W Ranch, the wranglers are looking for work. If you need a band to help with any benefits or other local events, contact them at David@FlyingW.com.