Strength, Tradition and Community
by Vickie Jenkins, staff writer
On July 15, 2025, the Express family, and the wider Oklahoma community, lost a visionary leader, Bob Funk Sr., co-founder of Express Employments Professionals and the driving force behind the Express Clydesdales, passed away at age 85 in his home in Yukon, Oklahoma. His legacy of faith, service, and community endures in every hoofprint these majestic horses leave.
When Bob Funk Sr., co-founded and former president, Express Professionals in 1983, his vision went far beyond the office. At the heart of his company’s mission was a simple but powerful goal; to help as many people as possible find good jobs for connecting clients with good people. Years later, that vision would take on a unique and unforgettable form in the shape of the Express Clydesdales, a world-class team of horses that represent strength, tradition, and the enduring spirit of community.
In 1998, Funk traveled to Regina, Saskatchewan, where he attended the long-standing Canadian Western Agribition. It was there that he first laid eyes on the striking black-and-white Clydesdales. Their size, beauty and grace captivated him. Funk knew immediately that this breed could become something more than a showpiece. They could serve as ambassadors for his company, touching lives and bringing people together.
Soon after, the Clydesdales were introduced as both a neighborhood marketing tool and a symbol of Express Employment Professionals mission. Their barn, originally bought in1936, was restored in 1998 to house the team. Since then, the barn has welcomed thousands of visitors from across the country and around the world.
The barn has become a favorite destination for local families, offering an experience that’s both educational and fun. It’s the kind of place where grandparents love to bring their grandchildren, creating special memories while enjoying the beauty of the horses and the welcoming atmosphere.
Tabitha Hageman, co-manager has many responsibilities. She cares for the horses consisting of grooming and feeding the horses, oversees the barn and gift shop, answers phones and coordinates events ranging from school field trips, wedding receptions, tours and parades. “It’s a rewarding job, even though it can be exhausting at times,” she admitted with a smile. “For me, the joy comes from seeing the horses connect with people, and how those moments often leave lasting memories.”
Though admired for their size and strength, each Clydesdale has a unique personality. ‘Wizard’ for example is the natural leader of the group when pulling the wagon. The barn is home to nine Clydesdales in total, and each one takes patience, consistency, and about six months to a year of preparation. Their care is carefully managed, including a special diet twice a day.
The Express Clydesdales are not only beloved by the local community, they are also world-class competitors. Over the years, they have been crowned champions in prestigious, earning recognitions for both six and eight horse hitches. Their travels have taken them to some of the most respected venues in North America including the Calgary Stampede, the Royal Winter Fair, the World Champion Clydesdale Show and the Oklahoma State Fair, among many others.
At every event, the Clydesdales carry with them the mission of Express Employment Professionals; Excellence, teamwork and dedication. Their presence in these arenas is not just about trophies. It’s about representing a tradition of service and community that began with Funk’s vision.
Perhaps, one of the most memorable moments in the Clydesdales history came when they had the honor of escorting Prince William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the Calgary Stampede. This royal appearance placed the Express Clydesdales on the world stage, where their grace and their breed reflected the dignity of both their breed and the company they represent.
For Tabitha Hageman and the many who visit the barn, the Express Clydesdales are more than horses. They are teachers of patience, examples of teamwork, and symbols of strength blended with gentleness. “Taking care of these horses and sharing them with people is something that reaches across every language and culture,” Tabitha commented.
From the beginning in a small Oklahoma barn to international competitions and even royal appearances, the Express Clydesdales continue to inspire wherever they go. With caretakers like Tabitha and the vision of Bob Funk, their story remains one of dedication, excellence, and community, written one hoofbeat at a time.
Express Clydesdales Barn is located at 12701 W. Wilshire Blvd. Yukon, OK 73099 and barn is open to visitors Tuesday-Saturday 10am-3 pm. Guided tours are available through purchases.
