To know Mary was to know a kind , soft-spoken , generous woman who rejoiced in family life . Together with her husband Dick , they charted an unknown path when launching the iconic Cabela ’ s brand from the garage of their Sydney , Neb ., home in 1961 . While that brand would grow to become “ The World ’ s Foremost Outfitter ” with stores across the nation , it was family that always meant the most to Mary . She and Dick had nine children , which saw their family grow to 22 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren . The importance of family , God , the outdoors and conservation

were essential themes in their lives and through the generations .

Side by side with Dick , she hunted the world . Her prowess in the field garnered her awards such as the 2023 Beretta and SCI Foundation Conservation Leadership Award , the SCI Diana Award , and the 2021 NRA Lifetime Achievement Award .

But Mary did more than just hunt . She was passionate about introducing youth to the outdoors and about supporting conservation organizations and advocacy groups like the Sportsmen ’ s Alliance . In fact , guiding the Sportsmen ’ s Alliance has become somewhat of a family tradition as Dick served many years as the chairman of the board . Soon after his death in 2014 , Mary joined the board of directors and helped further our mission to protect our outdoor passions . Their son , Dan , also serves an important role on our board today .

While she served on many boards , Mary ’ s passion was on-the-ground conservation . Through the Cabela Family Foundation , Mary was instrumental in a conservation endeavor of monumental

proportions . An immense international effort , the 24 Lions project successfully reintroduced lions , which were wiped out due to civil war and poaching , to the Mozambique landscape in Coutada 11 . Finding success with a self-sustaining population of lions , Mary then focused on returning much more fragile cheetahs to the country . The 12 Cheetahs project has seen success and together with 24 Lions will forever shape African ecosystems and conservation .

“ Mary was a true legend in the hunting word , leaving an indelible legacy for the future of hunting ,” said Evan Heusinkveld , Sportsmen ’ s Alliance president and CEO . “ Even with all of the well-deserved accolades , awards and business success , anyone who has ever spent time around Mary will tell you that she was an even better person , deeply dedicated to her family , wildlife and conservation efforts .”

We wish the Cabela family our sincerest condolences on the passing of Mary and are grateful for her time , support and the chance to know her . The world is a better place because of Mary Cabela .

COURTESY OF THE MARY CABELA FAMILY