Jordan’s Story
Jordan Wright was a one-of-a-kind person. If you were lucky enough to meet him in this lifetime, you know how rare and special he was –– someone who genuinely believed in you. Jordan saw your strengths, your passion, and your potential, and he was always there to hype you up, help you out, and laugh through it all.
He was a super connector who made friends everywhere he went and then brought those friends together, creating the kind of inclusion that turned strangers into community and sparked countless lasting friendships.
Coming from a Basque ranching family, Jordan embodied selflessness, hard work, and “go with the flow” optimism; he loved cooking, gardening, rope crafts, coffee creations, his animals, and showing people around his family’s ranch. He was always open to trying new things and helping others make their dreams come true –– most recently, he even stepped into a new role as a Producer on a local musical film production.
In February 2026, Jordan passed away, and he is deeply missed by everyone whose life he touched.
The Meaning of Sukaldari Taldea
Sukaldari Taldea is Basque for “Kitchen Crew,” and it’s the name Jordan proudly gave to the volunteers who helped bring his vision to life. In 2024, Jordan was invited to create his very first dinner show—“A Night at the Sagardotegi”—for the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada, produced by the Western Folklife Center. He gathered a trusty team of friends and community members, outfitted us like a family, and the dinner sold out almost immediately –– one of those moments where everyone could feel he was onto something special. The show was such a success that Jordan was invited back for the next two years, each time creating a new themed dinner inspired by the culinary discoveries of his worldly travels, complete with original, unforgettable menu items.
We formed this organization to keep Jordan’s Sukaldari Taldea alive and continue the tradition he loved –– but also to expand what it represents: more than a kitchen crew, it’s a community of people from all walks of life and all ages working together toward a shared mission.
In honor of Jordan Wright, whose kindness and friendship brought people together, we cultivate spaces where connection, creativity, culture, and collaboration help people discover belonging and shared purpose.
Why We Created This Nonprofit
Jordan’s Sukaldari Taldea was created to keep a very special fire burning –– one that turned every shared meal into a celebration of heritage and every community gathering into a family reunion.
We formed this organization to honor Jordan’s legacy by keeping alive the connections he made, the friendships he helped form, and the sense of belonging he gave so freely. Through gatherings and heritage arts programs, we celebrate him through the things he loved most –– ranch life, creativity, culture, and the joy of working side by side –– so that the community he brought together continues to grow for years to come.
Our mission is to protect and pass down the Basque and Western ranching traditions that Jordan lived so authentically, ensuring they remain a vibrant part of our shared future.