Miscellaneous LaPlata County, Colorado Obituaries

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John E. Baker, Sr. 

   John E. Baker, Sr., former Southern Ute Indian Tribe Chairman, died April 6, 2001, at his home in Ignacio. 
   Rosary service was April 9; then Mass of Christian Burial was officiated by Fr. Eddy Andary April 10 at St. Ignatius Catholic Church. Burial at Ouray Memorial Cemetery. 
   Baker was born April 25, 1918, in Ignacio. He served overseas in the Army during World War II as a surgical technician. He served Southern Ute Indian Tribe as Councilor for many years and as Chairman. He worked hard in developing many tribal programs over the years. He enjoyed the outdoors and gunsmith work. 
   He is survived by his wife, Lula, of Ignacio; sons John E. Baker, Jr. and Ernest Baker both in Ignacio; daughter Angela Baker at Santa Fe; brothers Chris Baker at Ignacio; and many grandchildren and great- grandchildren. 
   He was preceded in death by children Michael Baker, Zelda Baker and Alice Baker; sister Mary Baker; and brothers Clam Baker, Carl Baker and Randolph Baker. 

Lois Edna Hickman 

   Lois Edna Hickman died April 6, 2001, at her home in Bayfield. 
   Funeral services were April 10 at First Baptist Church of Bayfield officiated by Rev. James Newman. Burial at Pine River Cemetery. 
   Hickman was born June 8, 1918, in Pawnee OK. She graduated from Durango High School. She and Edward L. Hickman married on December 16, ‘39, at Aztec. She worked for a state senator for awhile and then was head cook with Bayfield School District for 24 years. Hickman was active with Sarah Rebecca Lodge and other ladies’ organizations. She was a devoted Christian and loyal church member. She enjoyed many crafts and gardening. 
   She is survived by her husband; daughter Caroline Shupe of Bayfield; sons Harvey Hickman at Wickenburg AZ and Howard Hickman of Parachute CO; sister Nellie Kinslow in Utah; brothers Frank Robbins in California, Alfred Robbins at Durango, Charles Robbins in Arizona, Harold Robbins in Nebraska and Donald Robbins of Denver; six grandchildren and nine great- grandchildren. 
   Her son, Harland Hickman, died earlier. 
   Her family will welcome memorial contributions to First Baptist Church, Box 50, Bayfield CO 81122-0050.

Deanna Ruth Surprenant

   Deanna Ruth Surprenant, MSW, known for her unselfish kindness and dedication to others, died peacefully on April 20, 2001, at St. Mary's hospital in Grand Junction. She had survived two craniotomies related to an acute subdural hematoma, but ultimately could not hold on to life. 
   A 22- year resident of La Plata County, Surprenant, was born in Baltimore, MD on Christmas Day, 1946. Initially graduating from Washington College in Chestertown MD, she later earned her Masters in Social Work from the University of Maryland, ultimately becoming a licensed Social Worker. In 1998, she moved from Bayfield to Durango. 
   Surprenant devoted her life to serving others and was considered an expert in family therapy, child/ adolescent abuse and protection, foster care and permanency for children. She was just 18 weeks shy of serving 20 years for the La Plata County Department of Social Services. Surprenant was a board member of the Violence Prevention Coalition of Durango and a member of the Sexual Abuse Treatment Team in Durango. 
   A member of Durango Friends Meeting, she served as the co-clerk of the Monthly Meeting. 
   And finally, she was a remarkable amateur poet whose poems were loved by many. 
   Her husband, Charles of Durango; four sons, Steve and his wife Betsy of Rockville MD, Jason, his wife Kathryn and granddaughter, Emily Ruth, Blake, and Evan and his wife Theresa all of Centralia, WA survive her. 
   The Durango Friends Meeting held a small, private worship for of Dee on April 22. A special service for friends and family to Celebrate the Life of Dee was held April 24 at the Elks Lodge in Durango. 
   Contributions in memory of Dee to help support the planting of a memorial tree in Durango celebrating her life may be sent to Vectra Bank, Durango Branch, 1101 East Second Avenue, Durango CO 81301. Account #4906004512, bank phone is 970-247-4183; or, tax deductible contributions for further distribution to several charities that she supported may be sent to the Deanna Ruth Surprenant Memorial Fund, c/o Durango Friends Meeting, PO Box 3052, Durango, CO 81302. 

Ruby H. Schoser 

   Ruby H. Schoser died May 18, 2001, at Four Corners Health Care Center in Durango following a prolonged illness. A private family memorial service will be held later. Cremation was at Hood Mortuary Crematory in Durango. 
   Schoser was born October 13, 1913, in Flora Vista NM. She married Leo Otto Schoser on May 17, ‘40, in Durango. She attended school in Bayfield and then Mercy School of Nursing. She nursed at the old Community Hospital and Mercy Hospital for Doctor Rensch and then for Doctor Murray for 25 years. 
   She is survived by daughter Jean Corbin of Durango, grandchildren Patti Newton of Boulder, Brett Newton of Littleton and Eldon Newton of Lakewood; great grandchildren Steve, Josh, Trevor and Taylor, and many nieces and nephews. 
   She was preceded in death by her husband Leo Schoser March 11, 2001, and sisters Margaret Moore and Elsie Gedney.

Curtis Trimble

   Curtis Trimble, life long member of the Bayfield community, died June 19, 2001, in Hurricane UT. 
   He was the son of Mae Cundiff and George Trimble, adopted and raised by Etta and Theo Cundiff, his grandparents. Born May 15, 1918, at Sauls Creek, Trimble attended Pargin School, served on the German front in World War II and farmed for 50 years at Hogs are Beautiful Farm on Highway 160 a mile west of Gem Village. 
   Trimble had been active in Bayfield Lions club as president and VFW as district commander. 
   He was awarded rancher of the Year by Durango Pro Rodeo. 
   Trimble is survived by his wife Grace, son Richard Trimble of Denver, daughters Coleen Rowe in Denver and Karen Otterstein at Bayfield. 
   Memorial services will be June 30, 4 p.m., at Lions Hall on Church Street in downtown Bayfield. 

Ilvah E. "Babe" Mosby

   Memorial service will be held later for Ilvah E. "Babe" Mosby who died October 11, 2001, in Federal Way WA. Burial will be at Pine River Cemetery. 
   Mrs. Mosby was born December 14, 1912, in Piedra CO to area pioneers Samuel and Josie Snooks. On July 9, '30, she married James Edward "Ed" Mosby and moved to Texas. They lived many places before making their home in Durango in '45. Mrs. Mosby worked for Gordon's in Durango for 11 years and for La Plata County Clerk's office for 23 years; she retired in March, '82. 
   An infant son, Charles Edward, her husband, and brother Otis H. Snooks, died earlier. 
   She is survived by sister Hattie Kingsley of Buckley WA; nieces Harriet Perry of Yorba Linda CA, Audrey Powell of Buckley WA and Jeanne Yeager of Bayfield; nephews Otis Snooks of Bullhead AZ, Kenneth Fosbert at Fruitland ID, Neal Snooks of Roseville CA; Darrell Fosberg of Flagstaff AZ and Stanley Snooks at Bloomfield NM. Many great- and great- great- nieces and nephews also survive. 
   Memorial contributions will be welcome to the donor's choice. 

Richard A. "Dick" Davis

   Richard A. "Dick" Davis, lifelong resident and rancher, died October 12, 2001, at Mercy Medical Center. 
   Funeral service was officiated by Chaplain Myron Darmour October 17 at Hood Mortuary. Burial at Florida Cemetery. 
   Davis was born May 4, 1924, in Durango, the son of Francis and Winifred Chambers Davis. He graduated from Durango High School, then served in the US Navy during World War II on the USS Uvalde and in San Francisco. He married Dorothy Ismay on May 7, 1958, in Aztec. In addition to ranching, he worked as a rural route postal delivery man. 
   Davis is survived by his children Laura L. Baker, Anna M. Kaufman, Richard Paul Davis and Douglas J. Davis, and brothers Robert Davis and George Davis all of Durango; sisters Elizabeth Shoemaker at Sacrament CA and Peg Davis in Medford OR, and many nieces and nephews. 
   His wife died in '98. 
   Memorial contributions may be made to American Heart Ass'n La Plata County heart Fund, Box 1777, Durango CO 81302, or to Florida Cemetery Ass'n, 290 CR 514, Ignacio CO 81137.

Elbert Bailey "Buddy" Harris

   Elbert Bailey "Buddy" Harris died October 16, 2001, in Ignacio. Pastors Curt Alderton and Randall Haynes led a memorial service October 22 at Ignacio Community Church. 
   Harris was born August 3, 1941, in Milan TN. He married Katheryn Kay Campbell on March 13, '72, at Scottsdale AZ. He was an avid horseman who devoted time to youths building interest in horses and their care. He enjoyed life, spending time with his family and their activities, and fishing. 
   He is survived by his wife in Ignacio; children David Harris of Kankakee IL, Beth Campbell and husband Rich of New London IA, Donald Harris and wife Joni of Edmond OK, Tammy Mansfield and husband Ronnie at Hendersonville TN, Saletta Brooks and husband Henry at Sharon TN; Jeffrey Harris in Syracuse NY and Clint Harris; sister Lisa Paschall at Gleason TN; grandchildren Jocelyn Harris, Jacqueson Harris, Jagger Harris, Starr Rogers, Shane Rogers, Travis Mansfield, Colton Mansfield, Fawn Harris, Autumn Harris, Kelsie Harris, Gordon Harris and Dustin Harris, and great- grandchild Jade. 
   Memorial contributions will be appreciated to Spring Creek Community Ass'n, c/o Sally Powell, 5962 CR 334, Ignacio CO 81137.

Dean D. Peterson

   Dean D. Peterson, resident of Farmington since moving from Pagosa Springs in 1976, died October 26, 2001. Dean was born August 28, 1952, in Durango to Paul and Margy Peterson. 
   His mother died in April, ‘98. 
   He is survived by his father at Bloomfield, wife Jennie in Farmington, daughters Brandy Peterson in the US Navy in Crete and Amanda Howell and her husband Chip of Farmington, brother and sister- in- law Dale and Pam Peterson of Bloomfield and nephew Heath Peterson of Metairie LA. 
   Dean worked most recently as a professional truck driver for Four Corners Pre-Cast Inc; he also drover for giant, Permian and Havens Trucking companies. 
   He answered his country’s call and entered the military service in the US Coast Guard and was a boatswain’s mate. Dean made rank as an E5 2nd class and received an honorable discharge. 
   During his boyhood in Pagosa Springs, Dean was an avid hunter, fisherman and horseman. He was involved in 4-H clubs in which he won many awards. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening and above all his family; he was a stay- at- home family man. 
   Dean attended horse shoeing school at Cowpolly Technical School in San Luis Obispo CA. 
   He was a faithful member of St. John’s Episcopal Church of Farmington. 
   Fr. Carl Brenner will officiate a memorial service November 2 at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 312 N. Orchard Avenue. 

Ross J. Martinez

   Ross J. Martinez died August 13, 2001, of natural causes. He was born March 25, 1917, in Durango to Emilio and Sarah Martinez. 
   Ross was a veteran of World War II, serving in the US Army from ‘42 to ‘45. He moved to Santa Maria CA in ‘45, transferring from Standard Oil Co. in Santa Barbara. He married Doris in ‘46, and they made Santa Maria their home. 
   Ross was a real estate broker. He owned and operated Martinez Realty in partnership with his wife. He specialized in farm and ranch and ranch properties. He was a member and former director of Santa Maria Board of Realtors. He was a director of YMCA Indian Guides. He enjoyed arts and crafts, painting landscape and mission scenes, and gave away many pictures to his friends. 
   He is survived by his wife; sons Richard R. Martinez, Alan W. Martinez, Fred L. Martinez; and grandchildren Christopher Martinez and Maurice Martinez. Other relatives who survive Ross are his sisters Mollie Flaherty and Marcia Martinez of New Mexico, Olive Garcia in Sacramento CA, Sofia Sevada in Arizona, Nevis Oustad in Texas, Julia Rodriquez of Colorado; brothers Christopher Martinez, Bennie Martinez and Seferino Martinez; and many nieces and nephews. 
   He was a loving husband, father and grandfather and will be greatly missed. 
   Arrangements directed by Dudley- Hoffman Mortuary. 

Edwin “Rusty” Valentine

   Edwin “Rusty” Valentine died November 2, 2001, at four Corners Health Care Center in Durango. Private family graveside service will be at Memory Gardens in Aztec. Cremation was at Hood Mortuary Crematory. 
   Valentine was born March 13, 1924, in Meeker. From March, 1947, until her death in August, ‘75, Elizabeth Hess was his wife. He married Hazel Long in June, ‘77. He served in the Army during World War II. He retired from working as an automobile mechanic and telephone lineman. He had lived at Clifton before moving to Durango a short time ago. 
   He is survived by his wife Hazel of Missouri Valley IA; daughters Barbara Kugle of Bayfield, Maggie Valentine- Inskeep at Pagosa Springs and Becky Donatucci at Aspen; son Mike Valentine at Flagstaff AZ, and brother Joe Valentine in Grand Junction. 
   His first wife, a brother, a sister and an infant granddaughter preceded him in death. 
   Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Mercy, 375 East Park Avenue, Durango CO 81301. 

James Edward “Jim” Walker

   James Edward “Jim” Walker died November 5, 2001, in Mancos. His funeral was November 10 at Allison Community Church, officiated by Pastor Jeff Finch. Burial was at Allison- Tiffany Cemetery. 
   Walker was born July 20, 1912, in Arboles, the son of John and Winifred Walker. He married Rachel Marie Lattin in Denver in ‘33. Walker served the US Postal Service 48 years, 41 of those as postmaster in Arboles. He was a rancher, auto and boat mechanic, and general store keeper at Arboles. 
   He is survived by daughter Alice Brown in Durango, sons Johnny Walker of Woodland Park and Jimmy Walker in Englewood. 
   His wife died December 17, 1996. 

Ronald Thomas Hill

   Ronald Thomas Hill died November 8, 2001, in Bayfield. 
   Funeral service was November 13 at Calvary Presbyterian Church, officiated by Rev. Dan Straw. Burial at Pine River Cemetery. 
   Hill was born February 2, 1944, in Mangum OK and moved to Colorado as a young child. He served in the US Navy and was stationed on board the USS Massy. He attended CU Boulder, UNM Albuquerque and graudated from Fort Lewis College with a degree in Business Administration and Accounting. 
   He moved to Bayfield in the early ‘80s and worked for Southern Ute Indian Tribe 18 years. 
   Hill is survived by his wife Leonette, his mother Margaret Hill of Farmington NM, brothers Don Hill of Temecula CA and Tracy Hill of Farmington, sister Beverly Grasmick of Rocky Ford, and many nieces, aunts and uncles.

Kathy Louise Giroux

   Kathy Louise Giroux died November 23, 2001. She was born in Norfolk VA in '58. 
   Giroux had moved to the Durango area 20 years ago from Chicago Heights IL. She owned and operated Top Cat Video store in Ignacio for years. She was a member of VFW Women's Auxiliary in Durango. Her friends and relatives remember her great interest in crafts and canning her own vegetables from her garden. However, most memorable was her passion to rescue abandoned and abused animals by taking them into her home. 
   Her father, Victor J. Giroux, died earlier. 
   Those who survive Kathy include her mother Diane N. Schmidt, sister Karen L. Giroux of Plant City FL; uncles Gene R Newman of San Diego and Bill Newman of Santee CA; aunts Jane Gore and Josie Newman of Nashville IN. 
   Her family requests that memorial donations be made to La Plata County Humane Society, Box 2164, Durango CO 81302. 

Jeanette Alexandria Frost

   Jeanette Alexandria Frost died November 27, 2001, at Mercy Medical Center. Funeral service was December 1 at Ignacio High School; burial at Ouray Memorial Cemetery. 
   A wake was held at her family home the evening before. 
   Frost was born October 14, 1987, in Durango. She was in eighth grade at Ignacio Junior High School where she was active in Math, Engineering, Science and Academics club. She was a Southern Ute and participated in traditional dances. She enjoyed music and the outdoors. 
   She is survived by her parents, Andrew and Janelle Frost, brother Jacob Frost and sisters Anastasia Frost and Eleanor Frost; grandparents Jack M. Frost, Sr. and Sharon Howell all of Ignacio; and many aunts, uncles and cousins. 
   Her maternal grandparents, John F. Denny and Lorraine J. Baker died before Frost. 

William Scott Howell "Will" Frost 

   William Scott Howell "Will" Frost died November 28, 2001, at home in Ignacio. He lived in Arlee MT the past six years. 
   Funeral service was December 1 at Ignacio High School; burial at Ouray Memorial Cemetery. A wake was at the family home the night before. 
   Frost was born September 5, 1965, in Durango. He graduated from Ignacio High School and was studying environmental science at Salish Kootenai Tribal College in Pablo MT at the time of his death. He enjoyed his motorcycles and classic cars, fly fishing, hunting and carpentry. 
   He is survived by his wife Maylinn Smith, son William George Frost and daughter Maranda Louise Frost all of Arlee; parents Jack M. Frost, Sr. and Sharon Howell of Ignacio; brothers Chief Prairie Chief, Jack Frost, Jr. and Andrew Frost, and sisters Tyner Prairie Chief, Jackie Frost and Andrea Howell all of Ignacio; grandparents Henry and Wanda Stoneroad of Oklahoma City; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. 
   His sister Sarah Suzette Frost, grandmother Thelma Stoneroad and grandfather George Howell died before Frost. 

Mendel Earl Eagle

   Funeral services for Mendel Earl Eagle were December 5, 2001, at Cortez Church of Christ. Hunt Zumwalt officiated; interment at Cortez Cemetery. Ute Mountain American Legion Post #75 conducted military graveside services. 
   Mendel was a beloved father, grandfather and friend to many. He passed quietly from this life into the eternal arms of his Heavenly Father November 30. He was born September 15, 1919, in Whitesboro TX to Marvin Davis and Ruth Elizabeth Eagle. 
   He served with distinction with the 10th Air Force 7th Bombardment Group 492nd Squadron of the Army Air Corps in India during World War II. Mendel later moved his family to Farmington, where he lived and worked during the oil boom of the 1950s, and afterward moved to Colorado where he had been a longtime resident of Bayfield and Cortez. 
   Mendel is survived by his sons and daughters- in- law, Terry and Lorna Eagle of Aztec, Gary and Debbie Eagle of Show Low AZ, and Kerry and Sandy Eagle of Flora Vista; daughter and son- in- law, Larry and Ronda Thompson of Las Vegas NV; 11 grandchildren; and three great- grandchildren; sister and brother- in- law Raymond and Francis Hufft of Nashville TN; brother and sister- in- law Marlin and Opal Eagle of Panhandle TX; and former wife of more than 30 years, Jean, and her husband and very special friend Willis Rice of Farmington. 
   Preceding him in death are his parents, four siblings and grandson Travis Earl Eagle. 
   His pride and joy in this world were his grandchildren who will greatly miss him. Nothing pleased him more than rocking the little ones to sleep. He will be fondly remembered for his love of the mountains, hunting and fishing. He had a keen sense of humor and a great love for his family and church family in Cortez. 
   In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Mountain View Christian School, 3900 E. Bonanza, Las Vegas NV 89110. 
   Services were under the direction of Ertel Funeral Home in Cortez.

Rana Jean Baker 

   Rana Jean Baker died January 13, 2002, in Ignacio. 
   Rev Kelly Winlock and Rev Sam Winder officiated funeral service January 17 at Baptist Indian Mission. Burial at Ouray memorial Cemetery. 
   Rana Jean Baker -Rock, a Southern Ute, was born July 26, 1947, in Durango and lived most of her live at Ignacio. She spent her early childhood in Albuquerque, graduated from Ignacio High School in May, ‘92. When she died, Baker was working toward an Associates Degree in Science at Pueblo Community College. She had one semester left before graduating. 
   Baker worked for Southern Ute Indian Tribe as a Community Health Representative where she enjoyed working with and was well respected by many Tribal Elders. 
   Baker will be missed for her delightful smile, the happiness that shined through her, and the joy and laughter that surrounded her everywhere she went.
   Her hobbies included family activities, listening to different varieties of music; her favorite outdoor activities were hunting and fishing. 
   Among those who survive her are her husband Elmer D. Rock, daughters ShaRay Rock and Maya Rock, parents Randy and Marlene Baker, sister and brother- in- law Madilenia Baker and Byron K. Chavarillo all of Ignacio, plus several nieces and nephews. Her brothers Randy J. Baker, Jr. and Ricky Julian Baker, her grandparents Carl and Jeanett Baker, and grandfather James Smith died earlier. 

Floy Box Valdez 

   Floy Box Valdez died January 2, 2002, of natural causes at her home in Ignacio. 
   Funeral service was January 30 at Rolling Thunder Hall, officiated by Rev Kelly Winlock of Baptist Indian Mission. Burial at Ouray Memorial Cemetery. 
   Valdez, a Southern Ute, was born August 1, 1921, in Ignacio. She loved growing flowers and was an avid Atlanta Braves fan. She enjoyed doing beadwork and taught many children and adults in her community how to bead. She served on Committee of Elders for Southern Ute Indian Tribe. 
   She was a bingo and casino player and loved the Towaoc Casino when it first opened. 
   Her survivors include sons Erwin E. Taylor of Bayfield, Buddy C. Taylor and Gene A. Valdez of Ignacio; daughters Eva Lee Taylor in Denver, Mary Frances Taylor Cotton at Ignacio and Marie A. Rivas at Pagosa Springs; 32 grandchildren, 41 great- grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins. 
   Her brother Floyd Box, Sr., sons Raymond A. Valdez and Frederick Lewis Taylor, granddaughters Pamela M. Taylor and Shelly Wynette Taylor died earlier. 

Leslie Douglas Hanna 

 Leslie Douglas Hanna came into this world December 25, 1921, at Marvel and was called home to be with the Lord on February 5, 2002, after 80 years. 
   He served in the Army during World War II in Germany, was a logger at Vallecito, carpenter, and a member of the VFW. 
   Leslie lived most of his life in and around Durango and Bayfield. He married Rose Mackey September 1, 1948, and they raised six children. 
   Leslie’s father, mother, three sisters and one brother preceded him in death. 
   He is survived by Rose, four sons, two daughters and their spouses- Doug and Shelly Hanna, Alf and Marcia Hanna, Tom and Joan Hanna all of Bayfield, Rodger and Brenda Hanna in Arizona, Martha and Marc White, and Dee and Ray Lopez of Ignacio; 18 grandchildren; seven great- grandchildren; a sister Martha Jane Huston in Durango; a brother Wesley B. Hanna in Oregon; and many nieces and nephews. 
   Per his request no services were held, and placement of his cremated remains will be at Marvel cemetery. 
   He was a kind, generous and honorable man. 

Edward J. Adams 

   Edward J. Adams died February 8, 2002, at Mercy Medical Center. 
   No services are planned now. Cremation was at Hood Mortuary crematory in Durango. 
   Adams was born January 18, 1912, in Chicago IL. He served in the US Army during World War II in the 3rd Armored Division and received the Purple Heart. He also served in the Merchant Marines. 
   Adams lived in the Durango area since ‘92. He was knows by all his friends in the Bayfield are as Uncle Eddie. Before coming to this area, he worked for Department of Agriculture and was a lumberjack in Washington state. In San Francisco he worked for civil conservation Corps, USDA and as a shipbuilder. He was a longtime member of YMCA. 
   He is survived by his nephew William “Bill” Adamaitis of Dayton OH.

Warren W. Good 

   Warren W. Good died February 14, 2002, at his home in Arboles CO. 
   Funeral service was February 19 at Arboles Baptist Church. Rev. Kelly Winlock officiated. Burial was at Allison- Tiffany Cemetery in Allison. 
   Good was born April 19, 1918, in Fondis. He lived there until moving to Colorado Springs during his junior high school years. 
   He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II and was a Crew Chief on B-17s. He worked as a hard rock miner throughout Colorado and knew every back road in the state. 
   Good was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing, hunting and water- skiing. He water skied until he was 76 years old. He also flew his Aqua Kite over Navajo Reservoir. 
   He is survived by his sons James C. Good of Navajo Dam NM and Robert W. Good of Alma, daughters Vivian Lee Fisher of Rifle and Paula M. Wertz of Arboles, eleven grandchildren and 26 great- grandchildren. 

Orland Nix

   Orland “Mox” Nix died March 6, 2002, in Bayfield. Services were held March 11 at Hood Mortuary Chapel with burial in Ignacio Cemetery. 
   Nix was born January 20, 1950, in Monte Vista. He served in the Army during the Vietnam War era. He lived in the Durango area for the last 14 years. 
   Nix loved poetry and art. He enjoyed being outdoors, playing harmonica and guitar, and playing with his grandchildren. He was an avid Denver Broncos fan. 
   His brother Wayne Nix died before he did. 
   He is survived by wife Lilia Nix of Bayfield; son and daughter- in- law Wayne and Renee Nix of Durango; daughter Trisha Nix at Colorado Springs; grandchildren Destry and Sadie Nix in Durango, Echo and River Riggin in Utah, and Kayla Clark in Denver; brothers Larry Nix of Colorado Springs and Norman Nix of Monte Vista; and sister Dorothy Nix in Monte Vista. 

Donald Grush

   On March 15, 2002, we said goodbye to a loving husband, father and friend. Donald Grush passed away at his home in Bayfield after a long battle with ALS, known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. His strength through this has been heroic to all who knew him. 
   Donald was born May 8, 1941, in Durango to Raymond and Irma Grush. He grew up on, and continued to live on, a small ranch at Bayfield. He worked for some years as a body man, then became a truck driver, all the while tending to the ranch. 
   His real career was being a father and husband, never missing a skinned knee, ball game or any other altercation that sons can create. He then became a surrogate father to two lovely ladies who touched his life as much as he touched theirs. His favorite job seemed to be grandfather since he could spoil children without suffering the consequences. He very much loved his grandchildren. 
   Donald is preceded in death by his father, Raymond; mother, Irma; and sister, Carol. He is survived by his loving wife, Carolyn; brother, Glen; sons, Terry and Kevin; daughters- in- law, Tracey and Tanya; grandchildren, Ronnie, Cameron and Madisen; and many friends. 
   Don- Dad- Grandpa will be greatly missed. 
   Services will be March 23, 2 p.m., Calvary Presbyterian Church in Bayfield. 
   Contributions to help with final expenses may be made to Donald R. Grush Memorial Fund at Pine River Valley Bank, 301 North Commerce Drive, Bayfield CO 81122, or floral arrangements may be made at Giggleswick Floral in Bayfield. 

Holeman “Grigs” Grigsby

   Holeman Grigsby, former Bayfield resident, died February 29, 2002, in Escondido CA after a short illness. 
   Grigsby was born March 12, 1913, in Los Angeles. He graduated from LA High School and from UCLA in ‘35. Shortly after graduation he began working for Aetna Life Insurance Co., Hartford CT. 
   In ‘41 Grigsby joined the Army as a second lieutenant. In ‘43 he attended General Staff and Command School at Fort Leavenworth KS and graduated as a captain. He was sent to the South Pacific. As battalion commander he led his battalion in the first assault up Cockazoo Ridge on Okinawa. He sustained life- threatening injuries. He was awarded the Purple Heart and promoted to lieutenant colonel. 
   He married Norma Seither in February ‘46 in Maplewood NJ. 
   After Grigsby was discharged, he was appointed manager of the group division of Aetna Life Insurance Co in LA. The Grigsbys settled in San Marino CA where they raised their four children. 
   Upon his retirement in ‘75, the Grigsbys moved to Borrego Springs. 
   Grigsby is survived by his wife of 56 years; sons Bruce Grigsby of Issaquah WA and Jeff Grigsby of Bayfield; daughters Julie Mosby of Martinez CA and Betsy Martin in Encinitas CA; nine grandchildren and four great- grandchildren. 
   Memorial donations will be welcomed to The Billy Graham Evangelistic Ass’n, Box 779, Minneapolis MN 55440. 

James S. Patten 

   James S. Patten died March 7, 2002, at his home in Sun City AZ. 
   He was born September 27, 1910, in Mariaville NE, son of Clarence J. and Etta Viola Beck Patten. He graduated from Manville Public High School in Manville WY and received two years credit at University of Wyoming. 
   He married Margaret A. “Marge” Gauken on June 11, ‘33. 
   Patten was an elementary teacher and principal in Wyoming schools. Over the years he owned and operated a ranch near Keeline WY. He then worked for Continental Oil Co for 30 years. During those years he and his family lived in Fort Morgan, Durango and Casper WY. 
   He retired in ‘69 and returned to Bayfield where they lived until making Sun City their permanent residence in March, 2000. 
   Patten is survived by his wife; daughters and sons- in- law Vivian and A.Z. Joy, Winona and Anton Munari, and Marcia “Betty” and Mike Elkins; sons and daughters- in- law Jim and Joey Patten, and Martin and Rita Patten; 16 grandchildren, 23 great- grandchildren, and one great- great- grandson. 
   One grandson preceded him in death. 
   Patten was a member of the Catholic Church and a life member of the Lusk WY Elks Lodge. He was active in many community and civic affairs over the years. 
   Funeral services were March 12 at St. Bartholomew’s Catholic Church; interment at Bayfield Cemetery. 
   Memorial in his name may be made to St. Bartholomew’s Church, Bayfield. 

Jayme Dee Lee 

   Jayme Dee Lee died March 21, 2002, at San Juan Regional Hospital in Farmington due to an auto accident that occurred March 17 in Pagosa Springs. 
   A funeral service was March 26 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Pagosa Springs Ward; Bishop Kyle Candy presided. Burial at Pine River Cemetery in Bayfield. 
   Lee was born December 7, 1984, in Durango, the daughter of Russel G. and Charlotte Lee. She was a junior at Pagosa Springs High School. She was full of life, had a loving heart, a beautiful smile and a sparkle in her eyes. She enjoyed snowboarding, horses, hiking, soccer and driving. 
   Lee was a loving aunt and had a deep love and devotion for her family. 
   She is survived by her parents; sisters Jennifer Lee, Missy Lee and Dena Lee, brother Brady Lee; nieces Alyssa Lee and Mahri Lee all of Pagosa Springs; and her grandparents Wallace Lee, Sr. and Ione Lee of Red Mesa, and Thelma Eaton of Bloomfield. 
   Memorial contributions will be welcomed to Jayme Dee Lee Memorial Fund, Vectra Bank, Box 1447, Pagosa Springs CO 81147.

James S. Patten

   James S. Patten died March 7, 2002, at his home in Sun City AZ. 
   He was born September 27, 1910, in Mariaville NE, son of Clarence J. and Etta Viola Beck Patten. He graduated from Manville Public High School in Manville WY and received two years credit at University of Wyoming. 
   He married Margaret A. “Marge” Gauken on June 11, ‘33. 
   Patten was an elementary teacher and principal in Wyoming schools. Over the years he owned and operated a ranch near Keeline WY. He then worked for Continental Oil Co for 30 years. During those years he and his family lived in Fort Morgan, Durango and Casper WY. 
   He retired in ‘69 and returned to Bayfield where they lived until making Sun City their permanent residence in March, 2000. 
   Patten is survived by his wife; daughters and sons- in- law Vivian and A.Z. Joy, Winona and Anton Munari, and Marcia “Betty” and Mike Elkins; sons and daughters- in- law Jim and Joey Patten, and Martin and Rita Patten; 16 grandchildren, 23 great- grandchildren, and one great- great- grandson. 
   One grandson preceded him in death. 
   Patten was a member of the Catholic Church and a life member of the Lusk WY Elks Lodge. He was active in many community and civic affairs over the years. 
   Funeral services were March 12 at St. Bartholomew’s Catholic Church; interment at Bayfield Cemetery. 
   Memorial in his name may be made to St. Bartholomew’s Church, Bayfield. 

Susan Jo Brown 

   Susan Jo Brown died March 27, 2002, at Mercy Medical Center. 
   A Celebration of Life service was April 3 at Mercy Medical Center Solarium. Chaplain Myron Darmour officiated. Cremation was at Hood Mortuary Crematory in Durango. 
   Brown was born August 17, 1946, in Roswell NM. She attended Wayland College in Plainview TX, Baylor University in Waco TX, and San Juan College in Farmington. Susan had been employed by Mercy Medical Center for the past 10 years, and she was assistant director of New Mexico Film Commission. 
    Susan loved gardening and flowers. She enjoyed spending time with her nieces and her nephews. She loved being with others and enjoyed buying gifts for them. She had been in the Durango area 35 years. 
   She felt that one of her biggest accomplishments in life was celebrating her sobriety for the last 18 years. 
   She is survived by her mother Julia Ora Brown of Aztec, husband Mark Evans, brothers Tommy T. Brown of Farmington and Jerry W. Brown, and many other family members. Her father, D. Polk Brown, died earlier. 
   Memorial contributions may be made to Mercy Foundation at Mercy Medical Center, 375 East Park Avenue, Durango CO 81301. 

Henry D. “Dick” Stumberg 

   Henry D. “Dick” Stumberg died March 28, 2002, in Durango due to natural causes. 
   A memorial service was April 1 at Vallecito Baptist Church; Rev. Jerry Brown officiated. Following the memorial service a celebration of life was held at Virginia’s Steak House. Friends and relatives shared food and memories. 
   Cremation was at Hood Mortuary Crematory. 
   Stumberg was born February 9, 1924, in Hamburg MO, the son of Clyde and Bertha Stumberg. He served in the Navy during World War II. He married Roberta Heeke on March 3, 1973, at Vallecito. They owned Far West Leather for many years at Vallecito. 
   He will long be remembered for his honest humor and tenacity in the face of hardship. 
   He is survived by his wife; children Cristy Holly of Bloomfield, Richard Stumberg of Anaheim CA and Betty June Jandette of Santa Ana CA; grandchildren Brittny Holly, Brett Jandette and Alex Jandette; sister Maggie Gross of St. Charles MO, and several nieces and nephews. 
   His sister, Betty Burch, died earlier. 
   In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Dick Stumberg Memorial Fund, 1577 CR 500, Bayfield CO 81122, or Hospice of Mercy, 375 East Park Avenue, Durango CO 81301. 


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