Guillermo "Memo" Vela’s life is steeped in generations of ranching tradition, tracing back to Spanish land grants and passed down from his father, Carlos. His inherited land, Rancho Nuevo near Laredo, became GMD Ranch, named for Memo and his sons, Marcos and David, who now help lead the family’s legacy forward.
From early days mending fences on horseback to cultivating wildlife and cattle management practices, Memo embodies the spirit of stewardship. A Vietnam veteran and former insurance professional, he found his peace back on the ranch, integrating conservation, hunting, and even wildlife photography into the mix.
Today, Memo and his sons run a thriving hunting operation with a guest lodge, advanced land management systems, and a deep respect for their land. With the help of trusted ranch foreman Pancho and the support of his close-knit community and wife Barbara, Memo remains devoted to preserving the beauty and tradition of Rancho Nuevo.
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