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Donald Nielson Donald Nielson, a lifelong resident of the Dove Creek area, passed away at his residence on Aug. 30, 2001. He was 77. A funeral service was held on Friday, Aug. 31, 2001 at 2 p.m. in the Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel. Cremation followed the services. Internment will take place on Sunday, Sept. 2, 2001 at 4 p.m. in the Peel Cemetery. Military graveside services will be conducted by the Dove Creek VFW Post. Nielson was born to Gennis James and Adelia (Dee) Vurdick Nielson on Jan. 22, 1924, at Monticello, Utah. After attending schools in the area, Nielson served his country in the U.S. Army, during World War II in the Pacific Theatre. There he performed his duties in the Army Signal Corps, in communications work. On Feb. 14, 1993, in Dove Creek, CO, he married Nancyray Smith. Nielson was a rancher, uranium miner, and was also previously employed with Nielson Construction Company. He was a lifetime member of the Dove Creek VFW Post; a former member of the American Legion Post 69 of Dolores; a former member of the Cortez Elks Club; and a member of the LDS Church, Eastland Branch. He enjoyed working, especially with his cattle and horses. He loved to garden, and enjoyed sharing his produce with others. Donald also loved his grandchildren very much. Donald L. Nielson is survived by his loving wife, Nancyray of Dove Creek, two sons: James (Zelpha) and John (Jackie) both of Dove Creek; three daughters: Dawn (Jimmy) Epps of Cortez, Connie (Rick) Baer of Grand Junction, and Dana Lichlter of El Paso, Texas; two brothers: Arthur Nielon and William Nielson of Dolores, a sister, Bonnie Nielson of Littleton; 2 step-children: James and Kim Upright of Texas, and Mason and Niki Moye of Tennessee; a mother-in-law Maryjane Murray of Dove Creek; and his grandchildren: Jay, Tyler, Waylon, Michael Joe, Bradie and Brandie Nielson. He was preceded in death by four brothers: Charlie James, Vaughn, Harold L, L. Dick Nielson, and a sister, Ruby Hunt. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Montezuma, Inc. 1108 N. Mildred Road, Cortez, CO 81321.
Lloyd Glenn Case Funeral services for Lloyd Glenn Case, a lifelong area resident, will be held Monday, Sept. 3, at the Arriola General Assembly and Church of The First Born, 15400 Road 22, at 10:30 a.m. Interment will follow at the Arriola Cemetery. Brothers Les Pfister and Kip Payton will officiate. Glenn was born in Tulsa, Okla., on Feb. 22, 1937, to Johnnie and Juanita (McConnel) Case. He passed away at his home in Arriola on Aug. 30, 2001, at the age of 64. On Aug. 16, 1960, Glenn wed Carlene Smart in Pleasant View. They shared 41 years of marriage. For 30 years Glenn owned and operated Case Heating, Inc. He was a retired fireman from the Pleasant View Fire Department, having served more than 22 years. Glenn was a member and bishop of the Arriola General Assembly and Church of The First Born. Surviving Glenn is his wife, Carlene, of the family home; children, Rodney (Debbie) Case of Purcell, Okla., Tonya (Clifford) Capps of Arriola, Kirby (Jodi) Case of Wichita, Kan., and Kurtis (Nicole) Case of Dolores; six grandchildren; two brothers, Kenneth and Clifford, both of Cushing, Okla.; and his sister, Sharon Randolph, also of Cushing. Memorial contributions can be made at the First National Bank. Services will be conducted by the Ertel Funeral Home. Antonia Giovanna Smith Funeral services for Antonia Giovanna Smith of Cortez will be held Wednesday, Sept. 5, at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church at 10 a.m. Visitation has been set for Tuesday between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the church. A prayer vigil will follow at the church Tuesday at 7 p.m. Born Jan. 17, 1927, in Slap Ob Idrija, Yugoslavia, Antonia was the daughter of Luigi Krapez and Analia (Klemencie) Krapez. She passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital on Saturday, Sept. 1, 2001. She was 74. Antonia married Russell Richard Smith in Gorizia, Italy, in 1947. In that same year Antonia came to the United States with her new groom. From this union were born Michael, Sonya, Katherina "Kayde," Thomasina "Tammy," Radonna, and Michelle "Mesha." A dedicated homemaker, Antonia loved gardening, especially in her beautiful flower gardens. She was devoted to her church and enjoyed her commitments with the Catholic Daughters of America. Surviving are her children, Michael L. Smith and his companion, Karen Scheidegger of Vail, Colo., Sonya G. Yazzie of Tucson, Ariz., Katherina "Kayde" Klemencie Smith of Dolores, Thomasina "Tammy" and Don Neely of Lewis, Radonna Smith and her companion, Robert Kirkland of Cortez, and Michelle G. "Mesha" Smith and her companion, Dan Knauth of New York, N.Y. She also leaves behind six grandchildren, Robert Jr., Steven, and Roldan Yazzie all of Tucson, Ariz., Kolby Shields of Dolores, and Richard Shields of Gunnison, Colo.; and one sister and her husband, Slavica and Dragic Lapanja of Gemona, Friuli, Italy. Antonia was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; a brother, Luigi Krapez; and an infant sister, Gabriella Krapez. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.
Victoriana 'Vicky' Gonzales Funeral services for Victoriana "Vicky" Gonzales of Dolores will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 1, at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Dolores. Visitation will be Friday at the Ertel Memorial Chapel, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A prayer vigil will be held at the church Friday, at 7 p.m. Father Thomas Munson will officiate. Vicky was born to Salmon Trujillo and Margarita Ulibarri Maestas on June 29, 1936. She passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital on Aug. 28, 2001. She was 65. Her six grandchildren were the lights of her life. She also loved word puzzles, reading, and talking on the telephone. Vicky is survived by her children, Peggy Gonzales and Ruben Gonzales, both of Cortez; Paul (Cali) Gonzales of Glenwood Springs, and Cora (Neal) Ohmert of Pueblo; six grandchildren and nine siblings. Memorial contributions can be made with the Dolores State Bank. Barbara Ann Saunders Services are pending for Barbara Ann Saunders of the Valley Inn Nursing Home. Mrs. Saunders passed away at the Valley Inn on Aug. 25, 2001, at the age of 72. She was born on May 16, 1929 in Colorado Springs, Colo. For service information, call Ertel Funeral Home at 565-3468. Creede Dell White Creede Dell White, 56, former resident of Montezuma County, passed away on Aug. 25, 2001. Creede Dell was born to Creede and Gussie (Pierce) White on June 13, 1945, in Erick, Okla. He passed away at the Veteran’s Hospital in Amarillo, Texas. Arrangements were made by the Veteran’s Administration, and Creede’s ashes were interred at the Natoinal Cemetery in Santa Fe, N.M. J. Lenard Payne Private interment services for J. Lenard Payne are being held Tuesday, Aug. 28, at the Cortez Cemetery. "J." was born in Gallup, N.M., on July 24, 1940, to George and Youtha Payne. He passed away at his home in Cortez on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2001, at the age of 61. A lifelong resident of Cortez, J. was a 1958 MCHS graduate. On June 4,1968 in Cortez, J. took Wilma "Mae" Nichols to be his bride. They shared 33 years of marriage. He was a member of the NRA and Cortez Rifle and Pistol Club and an avid outdoorsman, who loved to hunt and fish. Surviving J. are his loving wife, Mae of Cortez; his son Brad (Anneta) Payne of Killeen, Texas; grandchildren, Mike and Rachel Payne of Killeen; grandson, Ryan Barlow of Denver; and his sister, Marie (Tom) Smithson of Holbrook, Ariz. Janice 'Janie' Porter Funeral services for Janice Louise "Janie" Porter, lifelong resident of Cortez, will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, Aug. 24, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Battle Rock Cemetery. Mr. Hunt Zumwalt and Mr. Shelby Smith will officiate. Janie was born to Charlie Clemons Porter and Betty Ethel (Kelley) Porter on May 3, 1949. She passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital on Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2001 at the age of 52. In 1968, Janie graduated from M-CHS. Ms. Porter was a health care professional working as an E.R. Ward Clerk. She was also a lover of music, and an avid reader. Janie is survived by her mother, Betty E. Porter of Cortez; her siblings, James (Dorothy) Porter of McElmo Canyon, Elaine (Dean) Hart of Los Lunas, N.M., Charlie "Toad" (Landis) Porter Jr. of Cortez, and Nathan K. (Gisele) Porter of Lewis, Colo. She was preceded in death by her father and infant sister, Emily Rose Porter. Memorial contributions can be made in Janie's name at the Citizens State Bank. Services will be conducted by the Ertel Funeral Home. Dolores Margaret Pickering Services for Dolores Margaret Pickering of Mancos, will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 25, at the Four Corners Funeral Chapel. Pastor Jeff McDonnell of the Evangel Assembly of God Church will officiate. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Mrs. Pickering passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital on Aug. 20, 2001, at the age of 54. She was born to Doren and Dolores (Parker) McMullen on May 14, 1947, in Denver. There, she attended school at East High School. She went on to graduate in California. On April 3, 1978, she married Vonnie Lee "Pick" Pickering in San Diego. They were blessed with four children. Mrs. Pickering was retired, and was formerly employed as a court reporter. She and her husband retired here from San Diego in 1991. She enjoyed her retirement with her husband, and had many hobbies, including hunting, fishing and her humming birds. She loved her family, and her mother was the center of her love. She was very proud of her children, and of being a grandmother. Dolores Margaret Pickering is survived by her husband; sons, Rick Pickering and John McMullen; daughters, Rhoda Collazo and Terri Pickering; brother, Dennis McMullen; her mother; grandchildren, Jennifer Pickering, Jessica Pickering, Daniel Pickering, Doug Brummett, Gage McMullen, Doran Tanner McMullen, Aspen McMullen, Andrew Tucker, Talah Collazo, Alyssa Spencer and Sandra Spencer. She was preceded in death by her father; brother, Bob McMullen, and by her grandparents: John and Minnie McMullen and Fred and Margaret Parker. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken, directors, are serving the family. Bessie Beatrice Simonton Bessie Beatrice Simonton, 67, of Green River, Wyo. passed away Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at the Castle Rock Convalescent Center in Green River, after a lengthy illness. Graveside services will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 23, at the Cortez Cemetery. She was born Jan. 21, 1934 in Cortez, to George Leslie and Alvina Steckline Leigh. Bessie attended schools in Cortez, and graduated from high school with the class of 1952. She also attended Howard College in San Angelo, Texas. She married Herbert I. Simonton on February 6, 1960, in Albuquerque. She was a member of the Episcopal Church. She was also a member of the American Diabetes Association. Her interests included oil painting and gardening. Survivors include her husband Herbert, of Green River; daughters, Linda Williams of Gilroy, Calif. and Glenna Hannum of Granger, Wyo.; son, Karl McGee of Clarksville, Ga.; brothers, Archie Leigh, George Jack Leigh and Joe Leigh, all of Cortez; Johnny Leigh of Henderson, Nev., Larry Leigh of Albuquerque and Jerry Leigh of Caddo Gap, Ark.; sister, Virginia West also of Caddo Gap; grandchildren, Somer Senff, Jeremiah and Sheridan Hannum. She was preceded in death by her parents. Fox Funeral Home in Rock Springs, Wyo. handled the arrangements.
Ina H. Lobato Ina H. Lobato, of Cortez, passed away Aug. 17, 2001 at Southwest Memorial Hospital. She was 56. Visitation is Wednesday, Aug. 22, at Evangel Assembly of God, from noon until the time of service, which will be conducted at 2 p.m., also at the church. Pastor Dennis Rivera will officiate. Interment will follow in the Cortez Cemetery. Mrs. Lobato was born to Floyd Lee and Bertha Lucille (MacMillan) Bilger on March 5, 1945, in Warrensburg, Wyo. She married Ray Lobato on June 24, 1990, in Oceanside, Calif. Mrs. Lobato retired in 1990 from City Market, where she was employed as a cashier. She was a member of Evangel Assembly of God Church, and of the American Legion Auxiliary, Post #75. She enjoyed crafts, camping, gardening, Spanish and Western music, fishing and hunting. She dearly loved her grandchildren, and enjoyed spending time with them. Ina H. Lobato is survived by her husband, Ray, of Cortez; son Warren (Kimberly) Beldon of Grand Junction, Colo.; sons-by-choice, Carlos (Debi) Salazar and Raymond (Holly) Salazar, both of Grand Junction; daughter, Luci (Robert) Cooper of Cortez; daughters-by choice, Shelly Hafner and Cyndi (Rick) Presnell, also of Cortez; brother, Bob (Joyce) Bilger of Rock Springs, Wyo.; many grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken Funeral Directors, are serving the family.
Johnandrew Wilford Madrid Johnandrew Wilford Madrid of Cortez passed away Aug. 14, 2001 at Southwest Memorial Hospital. He was 66. A memorial service was held on Aug. 17 in the Cortez Middle School gym. Mr. Loren Kerr officiated. Wilford was born to Joe Victor and Annie Veldez Madrid on Dec. 13, 1934, in Pagosa Springs, Colo. He attended schools and graduated from high school in Pagosa. Wilford attended Adams State College and earned degrees with majors in education and business administration. On March 7, 1970, he married Maria Bertha Campuzano in Pagosa Springs. Wilford was the executive director of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe in Towaoc, and formerly the health director. He had also served as budget director. Prior to this position, Wilford was the director of the community action program in Johnstown, Pa. and the director of the Head Start program of Durango and Pagosa Springs. He was very dedicated to the people of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, and to the Cortez community. Wilford attended church with his wife and family at the Kingdom Hall of the Jehovah’s Witnesses in Cortez. He enjoyed traveling with his family, being with his sons, and he cared for and loved his entire family. Wilford Madrid is survived by his wife of 32 years; sons, Omar and Andre of Cortez and Kevin of Portland, Ore.; sister, Sally Cogan of Hinesville, Ga.; nephew Butch (June) Madrid of Pagosa Springs and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, and by his aunts and uncles. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken served the family. Merton Ross Taylor Funeral services for Merton Ross Taylor, longtime resident of Dolores, will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 21 at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Summit Ridge Cemetery. The Rev. Johnny Arrington will officiate. Visitation will be held at Ertel Memorial Chapel Monday evening from 6 to 7. Mr. Taylor was born on June 21, 1910 at Lakeview, Colo. to George D. Taylor and Clara (Kruse) Taylor. He passed away at Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos on Thursday, August 16, 2001 at the age of 91. Merton served his country during World War II in the Army. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Shriners, the Dolores Fire Department, and served as a Director of the Dolores State Bank. He was also the owner and operator of Taylor Hardware Store in Dolores or numerous years. Merton is survived by his stepsons, Eugene (Martha) Gustin of Dolores, and Cecil (Ilene) Gustin of Thompson, Utah, as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Burness Cecile (Berry) Taylor in 1994. Memorial contributions may be made in Merton's name at the Dolores State Bank for the Masons. Services will be conducted by Ertel Funeral Home. Geraldine Kingsley Geraldine Kingsley, 66, passed away at Heart Hospital of New Mexico on Aug. 15, 2001. Services will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, Aug. 15, at The Chapel, near Cortez. Sister Lois Wooten will offici ate. Interment will follow at Towaoc Cemetery. For further details, phone Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken, at 564-0667. Dwain 'Dezzo' Oveson A celebration of the life of Dwain Lee "Dizzo" Oveson, 21, of Cortez, took place on Friday, Aug. 17 at the Four Corners Funeral Chapel. Dwain was born to David "Grumpy" and Judy Irene (Tate) Oveson on Nov. 24, 1979, in Cortez. He passed away on Aug. 13, 2001. He attended schools in Cortez, and received his GED. At the time of his death, he was employed as a funeral service associate with Four Corners Funeral Chapel. He was formerly employed at Marsell Motors. Dwain had planned to continue his education in funeral sciences. He was also associated with the National Funeral Directors Association. Dwain enjoyed the lakes, mountains, skateboarding, "tretching," and fishing, and he especially loved his family and friends. Dwain Lee Overson is survived by his parents; soulmate, Sasha Watts; daughters, Eleica Marie and Raianah Nikkole; brother David and his soulmate, Crystal Oveson; sisters Daveena Oveson and Darlena Burch; grandmother Irene Gieswhite; and great-grandmother Alice Haydon, all of Cortez; parental grandparents Tex and Janet Hudson of Madera, Calif.; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins, and his nephews, Davy, Ricky and Earl. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken, directors, served the family of their friend and colleague. Colette Eve Hamlin Funeral services for Colette Eve Hamlin will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 16, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel in Cortez. Interment will follow at the Towaoc Cemetery. Visitation will be held at the Ertel Chapel on Wednesday Aug. 15 from 4 to 6 p.m. Colette was born on May 27, 1971 in Cortez and passed away on Aug. 12, 2001 in Durango at the age of 30 as the result of a car accident. She loved to draw and do artwork, and loved being with her family. Colette graduated from high school in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 1989. She attended Haskell Junior College in Lawrence, Kans., Southwest Indian Polytechnical Institute in Albuquerque, and San Juan Community College in Farmington, majoring in graphic arts. Surviving Colette are her parents, Delbert and Georgianna King of Towaoc; brother Gregory (Sandy) Mills of Towaoc and his children, Naomi Lennon, Ryan Mills and Forest Mills; sister Ellen (Paul) Gurule of Albuquerque and their children Joshua, Courtney and Ashley; sister Sandy House of Towaoc and her children Trent Ute and Donovan House; brother Colin Mills of Towaoc and child Irashia Mills; brother Myron Clark of Towaoc; and brother Carl Hamlin of Towaoc. She is also survived by numerous cousins: Mackey, Linda, Mackee, Carl and Keshia Bancroft; Ross, Evelyn, and Taylor Mills; Donna and Decoria Bancroft; Ulysses, Winifred and Udell King; Francilla Bancroft; Calvin and Calvina Mills; Melvin, Marcia, Shenieca and Dylan Mills; and uncle and aunt, George and Karen Mills.
Shauntel Clara Little Shauntel Clara Little, 13, of Montezuma Creek, Utah, passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital on Aug. 10, 2001, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident in rural San Juan County, Utah. Funeral services are pending with the Desert Memorial Funeral Home in Tuba City, Ariz. For more information about services, phone 520-283-6805. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, hale and Gerken, provided local arrangements.
Harland James Brittain Services will be held at 10 a.m. today, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Durango for Harland James Brittain, who died Friday, Aug. 10, 2001, at his home in Bayfield after a long illness. He was 70. The Rev. Gary Thur officiated; burial was at Pine River Cemetery in Bayfield. Mr. Brittain was born July 15, 1931, in Mancos. He married Sharon Wood on Dec. 12, 1951, in Los Angeles. Mr. Brittain graduated from Mancos High School in 1949. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1950 and retired as a master sergeant in 1970, when he moved to Bayfield. In 1976, the Brittains moved to Oregon, but returned to Bayfield in 1992. Mr. Brittain was a lifetime member of the Disabled American Veterans. He enjoyed being outdoors, fishing, hunting and woodworking. He is survived by his wife, Sharon; a sister, Bonnie Levine of California; a brother, John Brittain of Durango; four sons, Steven Brittain of Durango, James Brittain of Aztec, Frank Brittain of Albany, Ore., and John Brittain of Bayfield; eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.
Florine Imogene Rogers Funeral services for Florine Imogene (Brooks) Rogers will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, Aug. 17, at Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Summit Ridge Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday at the Ertel Chapel, from 5 to 7 p.m. Mrs. Rogers was born to James Theodore Brooks and Lula Maye (Johnston) Brooks on March 9, 1915, in Clovis, N.M., and passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital on Aug. 12, 2001, at the age of 86. In 1932, Florine married Charlie M. Rogers in Clovis. She was a member of the Summit Ridge Women’s Club, Eastern Star, and the Baptist Church. She enjoyed gardening, and loved children, sewing and handwork, and she was a devoted foster mother. Mrs. Rogers is survived by her children, Joan Forest of Dolores, Janet Kittell of Bloomfield, N.M., Charlie M. Rogers, Jr. of Mancos, James Robert (Sandra) Rogers of Lubbock, Texas, Helen (Duane) Pilcher of Kirtland, N.M., Cathy Shields of Farmington, and Daisy Collins of Mancos. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; as well as her brother, Loyil Dean Brooks of Phoenix, Ariz. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charlie M. Rogers; a daughter, Eleandor Mae Rogers, and a son, Fred Lehi.
Delilah Plenty Holes-Singh Funeral services for Delilah Plenty Holes-Singh will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at the Plenty Holes Cemetery, Oglala, S.D. Services will also take place at the Plenty Holes-Lakota residence in Oglala on Wednesday night. Delilah passed away on Sunday, Aug., 12, 2001 as the result of an automobile accident near Bayfield, Colo. She was born on May 26, 1958, to Melvin Plenty Holes Sr. and Regina Lakota-Plenty Holes, in Pine Ridge, S.D. She spent her childhood in South Dakota, and moved to New York to work at NBC Studios. She attended college in California, where she received a degree as a dental assistant. She also lived in Nebraska, where she attained a degree in English. Delilah also attended the Denver Tech West College. As a sergeant, Delilah Plenty Holes-Singh served her country in the U.S. Army. She was honorably discharged. Delilah is survived by her son, Ju Wan Singh; daughter, Misty Plenty Holes-Whiteman; granddaughters Denmi Whiteman, Iraeshiyah Mills-Whiteman; sisters, Olivia and Florence Plenty Holes; sister-in-law, Juanita Plenty Holes; brothers, Clifford Running Hawk; mother, Regina Lakota Plenty Holes; aunt, Nancy "Meco" Weasel Bear; Arlette Weasel Bear, Belluah Weasel Bear and Mike Weasel Bear. She was preceded in death by her father; brother, Melvin Plenty Holes Jr.; grandmothers, Nancy Weasel Bear, Louise White-Plenty Holes; and grandfathers, Jeffrey Weasel Bear and Owen Weasel Bear. Delilah was a well-liked, smart woman. She loved her daughter and son dearly. Her dream was to see her son start a career in the Army and to see her daughter attain a doctorate degree in psychology.
Lucia E. Luce Lucia E. Luce, a resident of Dolores, passed away Aug. 11, 2001, at Southwest Memorial Hospital. She as 72. A memorial service is planned for 10 a.m., Monday, Aug. 20 at the United Methodist Church of Dolores. Please call Mollie Wolf, Mrs. Luce’s daughter, at 882-7130 for further information. Mrs. Luce was born to James and Julia E. Eldora on June 19, 1929, in Long Island, N.Y. She was an owner of a gift shop and an artist. Mrs. Luce is survived by her children, James Luce of Dolores and Mollie (Dan) Wolf of Dolores; brothers, Jim and John Eldora of New York, and three grandchildren, Heatherae and Travis Wolf and Michael Vandeventer. She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Luce. Those who desire to, may send cards and memorial contributions to P.O. Box 651, Dolores, CO 81323. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken, are serving the family.
Wayne M. Foss Wayne M. Foss of Cortez passed away on Aug. 8, 2001 in the Albuquerque Heart Center. He was 84. Services were held Monday, Aug., 13 at the Lighthouse Baptist Church. Pastor Larry Chappell officiated, and interment followed at the Summit Ridge Cemetery. Mr. Foss was born to James and Emeline (Thompson) Foss on Jan. 2, 1917 at Blue Earth, Jackson county, N.M. He married his wife, Ferne, on June 16, 1940. They were actively involved with the Lighthouse Baptist Church. Mr. Foss was a farmer in Minnesota for most of his, life and moved to Arizona in 1958 for health reasons. He was mostly self-employed until his retirement in Cortez in 1988. He enjoyed life here because he was close to his favorite hunting grounds. He enjoyed all types of hunting with his many hunting partners. He is survived by his loving wife, Ferne; loving children, Linda Long of Illinois; Robert Foss and Melvin Foss of Arizona; Roger Foss of California and Diane Henkelman of Colorado; 11 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Mr. Foss was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Marion Hanesworth and Mildred Turner. Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at 701 Camino Del Rio, Durango, CO 81301; or to 789 Sherman St., Ste. 500, Denver, CO 80203, in honor of his wife Ferne, and her disease. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken are serving the family.
Woodrow "Woody" Mellott Funeral services for Woodrow "Woody" Mellott, a longtime resident of Dove Creek, will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 15 at the First Baptist Church Pastor Don Daniels will officiate. Interment will follow at the Dove Creek Cemetery. Woody was born on Oct. 14, 1913 in McElmo Canyon to Phillip Mellott and Clara (Dobler) Mellott. He passed away at his home in Dove Creek on Aug. 10, 2001 at the age of 87. Woody married Dorris Baker on Nov. 8, 1944 in Aztec, N.M. He enjoyed rock hunting, game hunting, and being in the outdoors. Surviving Woody are his wife, Dorris of the family home; and his children, Nancy Stock of Grand Junction; James (Barbara) Mellott of Kenai, Alaska; Janie (Steve) Stiasny of Dove Creek; and Hiedi (Mike) Haley of Chandler, Ariz. Also surviving him are his grandchildren, Audra Stock, Eric and Matt Stiasny, and Cinthia, Kaitlyn and Mellisa Haley; his brother, George (Jean) Mellott of Dove Creek, as well as many nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions can be made in memory of Woodrow Mellott with the Dove Creek Ambulance in Dove Creek. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Etta Slowman Etta Slowman, a longtime employee of Mesa Verde National Park, passed away Aug. 6, 2001, at the age of 66. Services will be at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 10, at Chapel of Memories Funeral home, #485 County Road 6100, Kirtland, N.M. For more information, phone 505-598-9636. Clarence "Mountain Lion" Lang Funeral services for Clarence "Mountain Lion" Lang, a lifelong resident of Towaoc, will be held at 9 a.m. Monday, Aug. 6 at the Towaoc Presbyterian Church. Interment will follow at the Towaoc Cemetery. Wake services will be held at the church Sunday evening beginning at 6 p.m. Clarence was born in Towaoc on Sept. 13, 1940 to Charles Parker Lang and Dot Watson House. He passed away on Friday, Aug. 3, 2001 north of Towaoc at the age of 60. A Vietnam era veteran, Clarence served his country in the Army airborne division. He was a true outdoorsman, loving to camp and hike. He also took great joy in his bicycle rides from Towaoc to Cortez. Clarence was truly a spiritual man. He never spoke a bad word against anyone and he served as an elder in the Presbyterian Church. He felt education was to be valued and encouraged his children to treasure it. Nonfiction books were his favorite reading materials and he spent a lot of time expanding his knowledge through those books. Clarence had a very artistic side to him; he loved oil painting landscapes and had begun doing charcoal sketches of people. For quite some time Clarence drove the Senior Center van taking tribal members to pow wows and delivering them their meals. Clarence worked many years as a Civil Engineer with the Colorado State Highway Department. Surviving Clarence are his children, Arlene Lang, Stephen Charles Lang, and Gracious Lang all of Towaoc; brothers and sisters, Arthur Lang, Lorraine House, and Ernest House Sr. all of Towaoc, Alethia Buffalo of Albuquerque, N.M., Yvonne Lansing and Theodore Weeks both of Towaoc; uncle, Thomas House of Towaoc; nephews, Michael Elkriver, Rickey Hayes, and Ira Hayes of Towaoc, Gary Hayes of San Diego, Calif., Byron Hayes of Seattle, Wash., Carlton Lang and Charlston Lang of Towaoc; nieces, Selma Cutter, Sharlene Whyte, and Sonny April Whyte all of Ignacio, Colo. Clarence was preceded in death by his parents, and by his sister, Maxine Hayes. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.
Sharon Lynn Stutzenburg Graveside services for Sharon Lynn Stutzenburg, 62 of Mancos, will be held Saturday, Aug. 4, at the Summit Ridge Cemetery beginning at 10 a.m. Sharon was born in Brawley, Calif., on Sept. 12, 1938, the daughter of Leroy and Ottolee (Higgins) Bonesteele. She passed away in Bellevue, Wash. on Monday, July 30, 2001. Surviving Sharon are her husband, Robert Stutzenburg; sons Brian Stutzenburg of Puyallup, Wash., and Kenneth Stutzenburg of Phoenix; daughters, Debra Bullock of Phoenix, and Marla Stutzenburg of Farmville, Va.; brother, Charles O. Bonesteele of Las Vegas; sister, Patricia Bonesteele of Las Vegas; and her mother, Ottolee Bonesteele also of Las Vegas. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Julia "Judy" Maye Fish Services for Julia "Judy" Maye Fish, 80, of Cortez, will be held 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 1 at the Cortez Church of the First Born. Doug Carver will officiate. Interment will follow at the Arriola Cemetery. Mrs. Fish was born to William and Josie Vinson Clawson on June 4, 1921, in Cleo Springs, Okla. She married John Charles Fish on Feb. 19, 1940 in Velljo, Calif. She was a homemaker all of her adult life, and a member of the Church of the First Born here in Cortez. She enjoyed gardening and being with her family and grandchildren. Judy had the ability to give everyone a smile, and to make them feel welcome in her presence and at her home. Julia "Judy" Fish is survived by her sons, Byron (Hilda) Fish; Glen (Shiela) Fish; Bob (Terry) Fish; Allen (Linda) Fish; and George (Debbie) Fish, all of Cortez; daughters, Marionetta Cooper, Nelda (Stan) Cloud and Lorraine (Virgil) Gray, also of Cortez; 26 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; 13 step grandchildren; sisters, Sara Fish of Jamul, Calif.; Milda Jo Sitton; Laurna Moore and Ule Hackett, all of Cortez; brothers, Daniel Carver and John Carver, Jr., both of Cortez, and Darrel Carver of Florida. She is also survived by numerous nephews and nieces. Judy was preceded in death by her husband, on Oct. 24, 1994; brothers William "Billy" Clawson; Dale Carver and Tom Carver; and her sisters, Patsy Sproul, Bonnie Rust and Leona Dennison. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken Funeral Directors, are serving the family. Dannie Roland Reigles Graveside services for Dannie Roland Reigles will be held 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 3, at the Cortez Cemetery. Dan passed away on Wednesday, July 25, 2001 at his home. He was 68. Dan was born to Marion O. and Mary Olivia (Clark) Reigles on June 15, 1933 in Hotchkiss, Colo. An outdoorsman at heart, Dan enjoyed fishing and hunting. He was also a lover of music who played the guitar, banjo and the saxophone. He is survived by his children, Richard (Carrol) Reigles; Debra (Randy) Cucuiat, and Dannie (Susanna) Reigles, all of Grand Junction, Colo.; his step children, Preston (Lisa) Woolery of Dolores, Wendell Woolery of Grand Junction; Trent (Diana) Woolery of Grand Junction, and Kurk (Terri) Woolery of Galena, Kans.; four grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren, and nine step grandchildren. Preceding him in death are his parents, Marion and Mary Reigles; and his wife, Evonne (Sealander) Woolery in February 2001. Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Jane Eleanor Stickles Jane Eleanor Stickles passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital on Sunday, July 29, 2001. She was 92 years old. Services will be held at a later date in Grand Lake, Colo. Jane was born the daughter of Edward R. and Anna Miller (Mesick) Myer in Claverack, N.Y. on March 28, 1909. On July 27, 1932, Jane became the bride of James Edward Stickles in Claverack. Jane resided in Grand Lake for 35 years prior to her move to Cortez, where she was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church of the Pines. After Jane's move to Cortez 13 months ago, she became involved in the Sleeping Ute Mountain Chapter of NSDAR. Surviving Jane are her daughter and son-in-law, Mary Lou and Robert Perkins of Cortez; grandsons and their wives, James and Stacy Perkins of Gunnison, Colo., and David and Richa Perkins of Columbus, Neb.; and four great-grandchildren. Her parents, her husband, James, and two brothers preceded her in death. Arrangements are being handled through the Ertel Funeral Home. Donnie Toby Velasquez Funeral services for Donnie Toby Velasquez of Mancos will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 3, at the St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Cortez. Interment will follow at the family cemetery on Summit Ridge. Father Kevin Novack will conduct the services. There will be a prayer vigil at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 2, at the church. On April 17, 1977 Donnie was born to Toby Richard and Diana (Lopez) Velasquez in Cortez. He passed away on July 29, 2001, at San Juan Regional Medical Center as the result of an automobile accident near the New Mexico state line. He was 24. Donnie helped the wrestling team at Dolores High School excel. He was a three-time state wrestling qualifier, placing second, third and fourth at each state championship. He also led his wrestling team to victory three times at the Regional Championships, and was a three-time member of the All-State Wrestling team. Being granted honorable mention for the state high school football team just added to Donnie's successful athletic career. After graduating from DHS in 1996, Donnie began coal-mining. He expressed his love as a coal miner. When he wasn't working hard, Donnie loved to camp, hunt and fish. Donnie is survived by his parents, Toby and Diana Velasquez; fiancée, Samantha Bennett of Aztec, N.M.; fiancée's mother, Peggy Bennett; children, Angelique Velasquez of Mancos, and Aaron Velasquez of Dolores; step-daughter, Jazmin Peterson of Aztec, N.M.; siblings, Natasha (David Martinez) Velasquez of Mancos, and Vanessa Ann Velasquez of Mancos.; grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Frankie Lopez of Mancos; Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Bole of Farmington, N.M.; great-grandmother, Rita Martinez of Dolores; aunts and uncles, Frank and Joyce Lopez, Freddie Lopez, Freddie and Patricia Sanchez, Robert and Rosemary Velasquez, Martin and Becky Velasquez, Veto and Diane Velasquez, Sammy and Rita Martinez, and numerous great-aunts and -uncles; cousins, Kenny, Curtis, William, Jeremy and numerous other cousins, along with his only nephew Richard Lee Martinez. Preceding Donnie in death were his grandfather, Richard Leo Velasquez; great-grandparents, Frankie and Juanita Lopez; Celestino and Cleofas Velasquez, and Richard Gustamantes; great-great grandmother and -grandfather Espinoza; uncles, Gene Velasquez, and Joe Romero, and his cousin, Nick Gallegos. Memorial contributions can be made in Donnie's name at Citizens State Bank. Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Harry Eddie Seymour Funeral services for Harry Eddie Seymour, a lifelong resident of Cortez will be held Wednesday, Aug. 1, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Pastor Larry Chappell of the Lighthouse Baptist Church will officiate. Visitation has been set for Tuesday afternoon at the Ertel Chapel from 3 to 5 p.m. Harry was born in Hutchinson, Texas on July 11, 1914 to Lon D. and Minnie (Cannon) Seymour. He passed away at the Valley Inn Nursing Home on Saturday, July 28, 2001 at the age of 87. Surviving Harry is a large family including his children, Lolita Street of Washington, Max (Sharon) Seymour of Missouri, Betty (Eldon) Noyes of Cortez, Patsy (Larry) Tevault of Cortez, Joe (Mary) Seymour of Missouri, Bob Seymour and his girlfriend, Faith of Washington, and Margaret (Mike) Warshaw of Missouri; 29 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and a few great-great grandchildren; along with brothers and sisters, Viola Gary of California, Eva Lewis of Cortez, Idell Kreisel of Missouri, Minnie Shelton, Lonnie Seymour, Robert Seymour and Jack Seymour all of Texas and J.W. Seymour of Arizona. His wife, Florence (Beene) Seymour; sons, J.B., Eddie, and Edward; and a grandson, George McCarthy Jr, preceded him in death. William ‘Bill’ S. Lard William ‘Bill’ S. Lard, 72, of Cortez, passed away Saturday, July 28, 2001 at his home, after a lengthy battle with cancer and other illnesses. He was born on Jan. 15, 1929, the eldest child of James and Zilpha "Ruby" (Fishgart) Lard, in Campo, Colo. On July 25, 1968, he married Katherine "Kathy" Deal, and to this union, three children were born. The Lards had recently celebrated 33 years of marriage. As a corporal in the United States Army, Bill served his country in the Korean conflict. He enjoyed sharing stories about the Armed Services with his daughters. Additionally, Bill was a member of the V.F.W. Mr. Lard was a family man, who even at an early age, worked to support his loved ones. He was employed by Cortez Laundry and Dry Cleaners for a number of years, and retired from there. Survivors include his wife of 33 years, Kathy Lard of Cortez; daughter Carol Lard of Cortez; daughter and son-in-law, Willa Deane and Larry Boren of Dolores; treasured grandchildren, Kodi and Shei Boren, also of Dolores; brothers and sisters, Benjamin R. Lard, Lucinda M. Mitchell, Vida K. Hancock, James E. Lard, Clifford L. Lard, Joseph M. Lard, Zilpha R. Robert, Dennis M. Lard, Della R. Boren and Everett Lard; brother-in-law, Wilbur Atkins; numerous other family members and his good friend, Kenneth Chadd of Mancos. He was preceded in death by his infant son, Billy Joe Lard; brother, Douglas W. Lard; and an infant sister, Zella R. Lard. Cremation is planned, with interment of remains to take place privately in Mancos, one of Bill’s favorite places. Family and close friends will attend. Memorial donations may be made in Bill Lard’s name to the Colorado Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, 700 Broadway, Suite 808, Denver, CO 80203-3442. Arrangments are through the Ertel Funeral Home.
Wanita M. Allmon Graveside services for lifelong area resident, Wanita M. Allmon will be held Friday, July 27, at Sylvan Cemetery at 2 p.m. Mr. Hunt Zumwalt will officiate. Wanita was born on Dec. 13, 1930, in Lebanon, Colo., to Virgil and Bertha (Roelfs) McMillan. She passed away at her home in Cortez on Wed., July 25, 2001. On Sept. 19, 1946 Wanita became the bride of Ivan Louis "Louie" Allmon in Lebanon. To this union one daughter, Lorna Jean was born. Wanita went to work for the Cortez Police Department in 1970, where she worked in dispatch, and later becoming the secretary to the Chief of Police. She had great pride in her job with the police department; all of the officers were "her children." Wanita was a very loving and outgoing person always needing to be busy. She was very devoted to her family and spending time with them. She also had a love for animals. Surviving Wanita are her daughter, Lorna (Tom) Gift of Dolores; two sisters, Edna (Floyd) Parker and Bernice McMillan; grandchildren, Eve Godfrey, Carl Godfrey, and Ken (Wendy) Torres; as well as various nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; her only brother, Robert Frank McMillan; a sister, Betty Jean McMillan; granddaughter, Ernestine Lee Godfrey; and great-grandson, Dalton James LaLonde. Memorial contributions can be made with Hospice of Montezuma. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Steuart Maness Mass will be held for Steuart Maness on Saturday, July 28, at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church beginning at 10 a.m. A Scripture Service will be held Friday evening at 7 p.m. at the Ertel Chapel. Visitation hads been set for Friday evening from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Ertel Chapel. Steuart was born in Cortez on May 23, 1977, the son of Ernest and Barbara (Steuart) Maness. He passed away Monday, July 23, 2001 in Denver while attending school at Metro State College. Steuart died from a lifelong struggle with asthma. Steuart loved books and was an avid reader. He enjoyed backpacking in the outdoors and had a great fascination with airplanes. Surviving him are his parents, Ernest and Barbara Maness of Dolores; his sister, Lavonne Maness of Gunnison, Colo., and Jonathan Maness of Dolores. Memorial gifts in Steuart Maness' name may be sent to the Cortez Public Library for the purchase of books.
Joseph F. Eppich Services for Joseph F. Eppich of Mancos, are pending with Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel. Mr. Eppich passed away July 25, 2001 at the Valley Inn Nursing Home. He was 95. For further service information, please phone the chapel at 564-0667. Wanda Tyler Services for Wanda F. Tyler, 82, of Cortez (formerly of Canon City, Colo.), will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 1, at the First United Methodist Church. Pastor Lynn Evans will officiate. Eastern Star Rites will be performed. Interment will take place at a later date in the Highland Cemetery, Thornton, Colo. Mrs. Tyler passed away on July 24, 2001 at Southwest Memorial Hospital. She was born to Walter and Louise Dewitt Sheldon on Feb. 16, 1919, in Colcord, Okla. She graduated from the Colcord High School. On Dec. 18,1961, she married Dale W. Tyler in Englewood, Colo. They were blessed with three children. Mrs. Tyler was employed as a bookkeeper. She was a member of First United Methodist Church; the Eastern Star; the American Legion Auxiliary and the Elk’s Emblem Club, all of Cortez. Wanda Tyler is survived by her husband; sons Sheldon (Jane) Howerton of Cortez and Leslie (Gail) Howerton of Easton, Md.; step daughter, Sandra (David) Schlaugar of Montrose, Colo.; sister Jean Sanders of Claremore, Okla.; seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her sister, Wilmuth Krallman and a daughter, Linda Sue Reeder. Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, 515 N. Park, Cortez CO 81321. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken Funeral Directors, are serving the family. Erma Sheek Erma Sheek, 93, of Brush, Colo., passed away Thursday, July 19, at East Morgan County Hospital. Mrs. Sheek was born Feb. 21, 1908, in Mancos to James and Stella Cochran. She is survived by her daughters, Mabel Thomas of Eloi, Ariz. ad Alice Davis of Brush; son, John Sheek of Phoenix; 13 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, James W. Sheek; sons Wesley and Albert; brother, Joe and her parents. A family memorial service will be held at a later date in Mancos.
Gladys Mary Schibbelhute Memorial services for Gladys Mary Schibbelhute will be held on Wednesday, July 25, at 10 a.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel in Cortez. Mr. Fred Thomas will officiate Gladys was born on May 5, 1920 in Moreland, Okla. to Dave and Gladys (Walling) Janow. She passed away on Saturday, July 21, 2001 at the Vista Grande Nursing Home in Cortez, at the age of 81. On February 6, 1938 in Catesby, Okla. Gladys became the bride of Fritc "Fritz" Schibbelhute. Gladys enjoyed playing bingo, crocheting, and singing in the choir club at Vista Grande. She is survived by her children, Irene Hauser of Cortez, and Haskell (Pam) Schibbelhute of Sheppard, Mich.; four sisters, two brothers, nine grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband; and two brothers. Memorial contributions can be made in Gladys' name at the Citizens Bank (Wal-Mart Branch). Jose Rosenaldo Lopez Funeral Services for José Rosenaldo Lopez of Dolores will be held Thursday, July 26, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Dolores. Father Kevin Novak will officiate. A Prayer Vigil will be held at the church on Wednesday evening, July 25, at 7 p.m. Mr. Lopez was born on June 23, 1924 in the area of Tierra Maria, New Mexico to José Ramon Lopez and Juanita (Samora) Lopez. He died at the Presbyterian St. Luke Hospital in Denver on July 21, 2001 at the age of 77. On April 9, 1945, in Los Ojos, N.M., Rosenaldo married Alexandrina Ulibarri, and to this union were born 12 children. Rosenaldo loved fishing, camping, the outdoors, horseback riding, gardening, and raising and butchering his own sheep. He was a member of the Association of St. Anthony. Surviving Rosenaldo are his wife, Alexandrina, of Dolores, and his children, Angie (Ray) Medina of Cortez, Joe and Pricilla Lopez of Dolores, Christina (Tony) Finch of Cortez, Juanita (John) Warren of Cortez, Mary (Stan) Cross of Dolores, Orlando and Tina Lopez of Cortez, Santiago Lopez of Dolores, Theresa (Scotty) Scheuerman of Dolores, Mary Ann (Mike) Krause of Ft. Atkinson, Wisconsin, Frank and Katrina Lopez of Dolores, Cathy (Randy) McGuire of Dolores, and Raymond and Tammy Lopez of Cortez. Also surviving him are his sister, Maria Ulibarri of Dolores, brother, Tony (Margaret) Martinez of Dolores, 22 grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Memorials may be made in his name at the Dolores State Bank. Ertel Funeral Home is handling the arrangements. Brian Cleaveland Funeral services for Brian Craig Cleaveland of Cortez will be held on Saturday, July 28, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Ertel Funeral Home. Pastor Don Henderson will officiate. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Brian was born on June 7, 1937, in Albuquerque, New Mexico to Fred Stout Cleaveland and Hiril (Henning) Cleaveland. He passed away on Friday, July 20, 2001 at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez at the age of 64, as a result of an accident while working on his truck. Brian was a member of the N.R.A. and the Colorado Timber Association. He loved hunting, fishing, farming and ranching. Brian is survived by his daughter, Aubrey (Timothy) Esteron of Port Orchard, Wash., and son, Brad (Bonnie) Cleaveland of Roseburg, Ore., as well as his brother, Bruce (Jeanette) Cleaveland of Cortez, brother-in-law, Kenneth Wenberg of Heppner, Ore., and grandchildren, Alaina, Shelby, Matthew and Joseph. Brian's former wife and mother of his children, DeEtta Mae Crawford also survives him. He was predeceased by both of his parents and his sister, Freda Wenberg. The family requests that donations be made in Brian's name to the organization of your choice. Louise Knobel Uptain Funeral services for Louise Uptain will be held on Thursday, July 26, at 2 p.m. at the First Southern Baptist Church of Cortez. Interment will follow at the Sylvan Cemetery in Pleasant View. Reverend Jimmy Kennedy will officiate Louise was born on March 14, 1925 to Roland Jefferson and Nora (Seamann) Knobel. She passed away on Saturday, July 21, 2001 at the Union City Manor Nursing Home in Union City, Tenn. at the age of 76. After graduating from Highland University in New Mexico, Louise became a teacher. On August 20, 1949 Louise married the late Owen J. Uptain. Together, they lived in the Cortez area. Louise was a member of the First Southern Baptist Church of Cortez. She also dedicated her life to her family. Louise is survived by her children, Owen Thomas (Gail) Uptain of Casper, Wyo., Marianne (Timothy) Vick of Denver, Colo., and Jeanie (Gordon) Jones-South of Fulton, Tenn.; her brother, Roland Jefferson Knobel, Jr. of Atlanta, Ga.; 15 grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband; her sons, Roy Uptain and Joseph Lee Uptain; and her her brother, Roy Seamann Knobel. Memorial contributions can be made in Louise Uptain's name to the First Southern Baptist Church of Cortez, or to Gideon's International. Service arrangements are being handled by the Ertel Funeral Home. Darla O’Farrell A memorial service for Darla O’Farrell will be held at 1 p.m. today, at Mile High Church of Religious Science in Lakewood, Colo. She passed away Tuesday, July 17, 2001 in Arvada, Colo. Ms. O’Farrell is survived by four daughters, one brother, one sister and seven grandsons. She was a longtime employee of Directory Plus of Durango. Memorial contributions may be made to Rocky Mountain Cancer Center, 7720 S. Broadway, Littleton, CO 80112. Alpha A. Smith Funeral services for Alpha A. Smith will be held on Tuesday, July 24, at 10 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Chapel in Mancos, with burial in the Cedar Grove Cemetery. She passed away on July 18, 2001, at The Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos, after a long battle with heart and lung problems. She was 86. She was born on March 8, 1915, to Francis and Doris Halls, the first of 16 children. On Aug. 1, 1933, she married Alma Smith. They worked and lived in the Mancos Valley, and raised five children. Alpha is survived by her children, James A. (Pauline M.) Smith of Mancos, Mary Jane Kuykendall of Naturita, Colo., Edward W. (Pauline) Smith of Mancos, Wilford C. (Sharon) Smith of Omaha, Neb., and Leo C. (Sharon) Smith of Midway, Utah. She is also survived by 18 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild; three brothers, five sisters, and many cousins, nephews, nieces and friends. Her parents, husband, three brothers and four sisters preceded her in death. Memorial donations may be made to the Valley Inn Nursing Home. Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Lillian Grace Jones Memorial services for Mrs. Lillian Grace Jones will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 28, at the Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel. Mrs. Jones, of Cortez, passed away July 19, 2001 at Southwest Memorial Hospital. She was 84. She was born to Everett L. and Crissie (Seipel) Scammerhorn on June 13, 1917, in Anthony, Kans. She married William P. Jones on Aug. 9, 1960 in Salida, Colo. Mr. Jones preceded her in death on Sept. 11, 1963 in Alamosa, Colo. Mrs. Jones enjoyed crafts and loved her family very much. She also enjoyed family get-togethers, and working in her flower garden. She liked her "peace and quiet" most of all. Mrs. Jones was retired as a dispatcher with the Alamosa Police Department. Lillian Grace Jones is survived by her sister, Ellen Thorpe of Cortez; nieces Karen (Robert) Yarbrough and family of Dolores; and Linda McWiliams (Earl) and family of Nucla; and sister-in-law, Marthann (Bill) Stevens and family of Belen, N.M. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; bother, Bernal LeRoy Scammerhorn, and a sister, Lenora Fern Scammerhorn. Virgil Clayton Watkins Services for Virgil Clayton Watkins, longtime Dove Creek resident, will be held Sunday, July 22, at 2 p.m., in the Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel in Cortez. Drew Dugger will officiate. Interment will follow at the Dove Creek Cemetery, with military graveside rites provided by the Dove Creek VFW Post. A dinner will follow at the Dove Creek Community Building. Visitation is set for Sunday morning, from 9 a.m. to noon. Mr. Clayton passed away at his residence on July 18, 2001, at the age of 88. He was born to Andrew and Fannie Holiday Watkins on Jan. 17, 1913 in Boyd, Okla. He grew up in Beaver County, Okla. and moved to Dove Creek in 1935. Mr. Watkins served his country during World War II as a member of the U.S. Air Corps. He was stationed in Alaska, where he worked as an airplane mechanic. He was a farmer and a mechanic all of his adult life. He was very gifted in making equipment for use around the farm. He enjoyed fishing and hunting when he was able to get away from his farming life. On May 23, 1958, he married Mary J. Young in Cortez. They were blessed with three children. He is survived by his wife; sons Roger (Dessie) Watkins, all of Dove Creek, and Andy Watkins and friend, Kimberly Show of Lewis; daughter, Barbara (Hershel) Morton of Dove creek; brother Felton Watkins of Cortez; sisters, Lois Sword of Oklahoma City and Rosy Cory of Harville, Miss.; six grandchildren, Clinton Morton, Jeremy, Wyatt, Casey, Kayla and Travis Watkins, and numerous nephews and nieces. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Montezuma, 1108 N. Mildred Road, Cortez, CO 81321. Amber Belle Fitzgerald Memorial services for Amber Belle Fitzgerald will be held Sunday, July 22, at the American Legion Hall in Cortez at 2 p.m. Amber was born to Charles Michael Fitzgerald and Laura Renee Castor on June 1, 1982, in Cortez. She passed away on July 17, 2001 in rural Montezuma County. Her passion for music led her to a dream of music stardom. Amber loved to be social, and was very artistic. She is survived by her mother, Laura Castor; her grandparents, Charlie Fitzgerald of Aztec, N.M., Mary Lou Fletcher of Cortez, Melvin and Kay Castor of Palisade, Colo., and Annie Wilson of Cortez; her siblings, Kami and Kelsey of Cortez, and Samantha of Eagle Mountain, Utah; her aunts and uncles, Nikki Castor of Cortez, Debbie (Coke) Halls of Mancos, Kenny (Sheila) Castor of Cortez, and Denny (Melodie) Fitzgerald of Albuquerque, N.M.; her great aunts and uncles, Lester (Pauline) Goff of Mancos, and Delon Martinez of Cortez; her niece, MacKayla of Eagle Mountain, Utah.; many cousins and numerous friends; and her little dog Tabatha. Her father, Charles Fitzgerald, preceded her in death. Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Louise Ann Hight Funeral services for Louise Ann Hight, a lifelong resident of Towaoc will be held Thursday, July 19, at the Towaoc Recreation Center at 10 a.m Pastor Davis Badback will conduct the services. Interment will follow at the Towaoc Cemetery. On March 24, 1953 in Cortez, Oscar Hight and Betty Morris became the proud parents of Louise Ann. Louise passed away on Monday, July 16, 2001 at her home in Towaoc. She was the cherished wife of Mr. Ben Watts Jr. Louise was an avid collector of angels and a loving teacher. She is survived by her husband, Ben Watts Jr. of Towaoc; her children, Travis Morgan, Cristal White, and Rodney Lehi Jr. all of Towaoc; her siblings, Bruce Lehi of Towaoc, Lucy Summa of Towaoc, Daniel Lehi of Towaoc, Bradley Hight of Aztec, N.M., and Steve Hight, of Towaoc. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Nathan 'Nate' Cotton Private family services will be held for Nathan "Nate" Owen Cotton, 19, of Dolores. Nate passed away on July 17, 2001 in an automobile accident. He was born in Steamboat Springs, Colo. on Feb. 22, 1982, to James Owen Cotton and Linda Lee Conkling Cotton. He attended schools in Cortez, Dolores and in Miami, Fla. Nate lived in this area for most of his life. On July 29, 2000, Nate married Marina Kay Barber. Nate was employed at T.C. Electric Company locally, as an apprentice electrician. He was very happy with his occupation, and looked forward to becoming an electrician. One of the most important part of Nate’s life was the time he and Marina spent coaching track and softball for the area’s Special Olympics. They were both very devoted to this important organization. Nate also enjoyed hunting and fishing, camping, boating, working on cars, and most of all, he loved his children. Nathan Owen Cotton is survived by his wife, Marina; children, Mahala Jonlee Cotton, Nathaniel Lobato and Joshua Lobato, all of Dolores; his father, James of Miami and mother, Linda Conkling of Cheyenne, Wyo. He is also survived by brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces and friends. Memorial contributions may be made in his name at Citizens State Bank of Cortez. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken Funeral Directors, are serving the family. Helen D. Duncan Helen D. Duncan of Redvale, Colo. passed away on July 12, 2001 in the University Hospital of Denver. She was 68. Services will be Tuesday, July 17, at 6:30 p.m. in the Redvale Community Church. Interment will be held at a later date in the Pearl Cemetery, Anna, Ohio. She was born on Aug. 11, 1932, in Addison, Ala. She is survived by a son, a daughter, two brothers, 10 grand children and six great-grandchildren. Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken Funeral Directors, are serving the family. Ruth Jarmon Ruth Joy (Ratliff) Jarmon was born on Aug. 28, 1934, in South Boston, Va., to William and Zelda (Briggs) Ratliff. She passed away on July 11, 2001, in Port Lavaca, Texas. On Dec. 26, 1951, Ruth married Louis Leland Jarmon in Chesterfield, South Carolina. Lou and Ruth moved around quite a bit before deciding to settle in Cortez in 1972. Ruth went to work for the Montezuma Dolores Title Company in 1976 and purchased thee business in 1981. She semi-retired in 1999 to spend more time with Lou in the home they purchased in Port Lavaca, Texas. She is survived by her husband, Lou; her sons, Steve (Margie) of Cortez, David (Edith) of Yellow Jacket and Melville (Brenda) of Cahone; four grandsons, Donnie of Anthony, N.M.; Daniel (Amanda) of Jacksonville, N.C.; Randy (Crystal) of San Diego, Calif., and Brent of Yellow Jacket; and one great-grandson, Tristan Blake (Randy) of San Diego. She is also survived by two brothers, Melville L. Ratliff of Burlington, N.C., and William D. Ratliff of Mayodan, N.C.; and three sisters, Mildred Curtis of Graham, N.C., Stella Crabtree of Graham, N.C., and Malinda Piland of Mebane, N.C. She was preceded in death by her parents, a son, Jeffrey, and a sister, Dorothy Hoyl. Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 19, at the Primitive Baptist Church on South Oak in Cortez, with the Rev. Jim Phelps officating. Hazel Kinnamon Memorial services for Hazel Alice Kinnamon, a resident of Cortez, will be held locally 7 p.m. Monday, July 23, at the First United Methodist Church of Cortez. Funeral services and interment took place in Kansas on July 20. Hazel was born to Nels A. and Maud (Woods) Isaac on July 16, 1906 in Moorhead, Minn. She passed away Saturday July 14, 2001 at the Vista Grande Nursing Home in Cortez, Colo. at the age of 94. Memorial contributions can be made in Hazel Kinnamon's name with the Cortez First United Methodist Church or Augusta First United Methodist Church. Jessie Adelene Weber Funeral services for longtime Dove Creek resident, Jessie Adelene Weber will be held Friday, July 20, at the Dove Creek First Baptist Church beginning at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at the Dove Creek Cemetery. Adelene was born to Roy D. and Fern (Holland) Donaldson on Oct. 25, 1917, in Casper, Wyo. She passed away at her home in Dove Creek on Sunday, July 15, 2001. She was 83. In southern California, Adelene became the bride of Richard Carl Weber on June 16, 1939. Together they shared 60 years of marriage before Richard's death on Dec. 16, 1999. Adelene loved music; she played the piano and the organ. She played the church organ and piano for 50 years. She kept her hands busy, enjoying sewing, quilting baby quilts, and embroidery. Her house was continually decorated for the current season. She loved flowers. Surviving Adelene are her children, Robert D. (Sylvia) Weber of Las Vegas, Nev., Donald G. Weber, also of Las Vegas, Nev., and Sharilyn A. (Jimmy) Richardson of Dove Creek; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; a brother, Wallace R. (Marjorie) Donaldson of Santa Rosa, Calif.; and a sister, Carole (Edward) Williams of Fountain Valley, Calif. Memorial contributions can be made at the Dove Creek State Bank to benefit the Dove Creek Ambulance Fund. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Norton Mills Jr. Funeral services for Norton Mills Jr., 40, of Towaoc, are set for Wednesday, July 18, at Ertel Memorial Chapel beginning at 10 a.m. Mr. Terry Knight will officiate. Burial will be held at Towaoc Cemetery. "Junior" as he was fondly called, was born March 23, 1961 in Cortez, the son of Norton Mills Sr. and Velma (Clark) Mills. He passed away at his home in Towaoc on Saturday, July 14, 2001. Surviving Junior are his parents, Norton Mills Sr. and Velma Mills of Towaoc; his children, Dana Cody Mills of White Mesa, Utah and Mariah Sarah Mills of Shiprock, N.M.; brother, DeVaney C. (Daisy) Mills of Towaoc; sisters, Flaydina M. (Terry) Knight and LaVella L. Mills both of Towaoc; uncle, Derrick Clark; grandmother, Florence R. Clark; and many friends and other relations. David Delo Herrick Memorial services will be held for David Delo Herrick, a longtime Cortez resident, on Saturday July 14, at 10 a.m. at Parque de Vida in Cortez. The family suggests that everyone bring their own chairs. Dave was born on July 19, 1931 in Denver, Colo. He passed away on Sunday, July 8, 2001 at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez at the age of 69. Surviving Dave are his wife of 47 years, Pat Herrick of Cortez; children, Gail Ann Herrick of San Francisco, Calif., James Hardy (Laura) Herrick of Cortez, and Jeffrey Bryan (Eumelia) Herrick of Henderson, Nev.; grandchildren, Alek David Herrick, Chad James Herrick, Dante Hardy Herrick, and Gabriela Sabay Herrick; his sister Dorothy Jean Terry of Umpqua, Ore.; and his nieces and nephews, David Terry, John Terry, Kevin Comiskey, and Kristen Terry. Preceding Dave in death were his father and mother, David and Dorothy Herrick. Memorial contributions may be made in Dave Herrick's name with Hospice of Montezuma, 1108 N. Mildred Road, Ste. B, Cortez CO 81321. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Gary W. Erickson Funeral services for Gary Warren Erickson of Cortez will be held at the Cortez First United Methodist Church at 2 p.m. on Saturday July 14. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Gary was born to Kenneth W. "Bud" and Ann L. (Price) Erickson on June 22, 1945 in Montrose, Colo. He passed away on Tuesday July 10, 2001 at the San Juan Regional Medical Center in Farmington, N.M. at the age of 56. Surviving Gary are his wife, Trudy Erickson of Cortez; his son, Jon Erickson; his mother and father, Ann and Bud Erickson; his siblings, Kenneth (Linda) Erickson of Dolores and Linda (P.G.) West of Cortez; his nieces and nephews, Deva, Kayla, Jason Erickson, and Gina West; his father-in-law, John C. Sells and family of Shiprock, N.M.; brothers-in-law, Joseph A. Sells and family of Farmington, N.M. and Christopher F. Sells and family of Seattle, Wash.; and sister-in-law, Erma Archuleta and family of Santa Fe, N.M. Preceding Gary in death was his daughter, Leshon Erickson in November 1989. Memorial contributions can be made in Gary Erickson's name with Vectra Bank to the Leshon Erickson Memorial Fund. Floyd Herbert Cook Funeral services for longtime Dove Creek resident, Floyd Herbert Cook will be held at the First Southern Baptist Church of Dove Creek at 10 a.m on Friday, July 13. Interment will follow at the Dove Creek Cemetery. Floyd was born to Cecil and Lillie (Murphy) Cook on March 15, 1932 in Prescott, Ariz. He passed away on Sunday, July 8, 2001 at his home on Bug Point at the age of 69. Floyd moved to the Dove Creek area in 1973 where he worked in construction as a heavy equipment operator. He married his wife Joann Krause on Sept. 16, 1995 in Dove Creek. Watching stock car races was one of Floyd's favorite pastimes. He also loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Surviving Floyd are his wife, Joann Cook of Dove Creek; his children, Floyd (Linda) Lee Cook of Dove Creek, Elma (Tommy) Schear of Squaw Point, Colo., Cathy Kibel of Dove Creek, and Bill (Robin) Stoffers of Peoria, Ariz. Preceding Floyd in death were his father and mother Cecil and Lillie Cook, and his first wife Ethel May (Gay) Cook, who passed away on July 18, 1994. Memorial contributions can be made in Floyd Cook's name with the Dove Creek VFW. Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Lin Crawford Funeral services for Lin Crawford of Mancos will be held Monday, July 9, at 2 p.m. at Hood Mortuary in Durango. Pastor Jim Wright will officiate. Mr. Crawford passed away July 4, 2001, at Four Corners Health Care Center in Durango. He was 86. He was born March 27, 1916, in Pagosa Springs, Colo., and raised in the Durango area. He moved to Mancos in 1944. He did construction work on the old Fort Lewis and on the Navajo Reservation. He is survived by his wife, Vivian, and a brother, Robert R. Crawford. He was a retired member of the Mancos Fire and Rescue Department. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mancos Fire and Rescue Department, Box 145, Mancos, CO 31328. Robert Lincoln ‘Linc’ Underwood Funeral services for Robert Lincoln "Linc" Underwood are scheduled for Monday, July 9, at the Seventh Day Adventist Church of Cortez at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Visitation has been set for Sunday between 2 and 4 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Pastor Steve Schwarz will officiate Linc was born to Robert Alfred and Blanche Birdine (Nesmith) Underwood on May 5, 1928, in Los Angeles, Calif. He passed away on July 4, 2001, in Bullfrog, Utah, at the age of 73. Linc married his sweetheart, Betty Jane Miller, on Aug. 1, 1951, in Nelson, Neb. They were soon to celebrate 50 years together. Linc began the family optical business in August 1954. He had been an active member of this community. He was a member of the Lions Club since their move to Cortez in 1954. He was an elder in the Seventh Day Adventist Church and worked in the Stop Smoking Clinic. Linc helped in missions work with the used-eyeglasses program in the Amazon River area, Africa, Guam, Dominican Republic, Venezuela, and Mexico. Linc's family loved to watch him enjoy all sports, and to satisfy his "need for speed" through racing cars, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and boats. His spirit of competition and activity was passed on to his children, who are all involved in their community. Linc is survived by his wife, Betty Underwood of Cortez; children, Duke (Kay) Underwood of Cortez, Kirk (Sharon) Underwood of Dolores, and Kim (Joe) Traucht of Cortez; grandchildren, Tyler and Todd Underwood, Raven and Baylee Underwood, Krisalynn and Jessica Heacock, and Kaylee and Tiffany Traucht; and his cousins, Warren (Peggy) Underwood of Boulder, Colo., Stephen (Carole) Underwood of Arlington, Tex. and Bill (Maxine) Nesmith. He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant daughter, Lori. Memorial contributions can be made with Vectra Bank. Patricia Burdette Trevino Services are pending for Patricia Burdette Trevino. She passed away on July 3, 2001, at her home in Cortez at the age of 54. For service information, please contact the Ertel Funeral Home at 565-3468. Katherine 'Pat" Geiser Graveside services for Katherine "Pat" Roseanna Geiser will be held at the Lewis Cemetery on Saturday, July 7, at 3 p.m. Pat Geiser, 86, recently of Paradise Valley, Ariz. died peacefully Monday, June 25, 2001 at the Regent Court assisted living facility in Scottsdale, Ariz. She was born on Feb. 4, 1915, in Wilkinsburg, Penn. to James Christopher and Katherinne Emma (Weckler) Doyle. She married her high-school sweetheart, Kenny Geiser on Aug. 31, 1935, in Toledo, Ohio. They lived in New York, Arizona, and later purchased a retirement home, the Silverbell Ranch, in Lewis. She was very active with Planned Parenthood in each community in which she lived. She was a true advocate of women's rights and served in many key positions benefiting this cause. She is remembered as a devoted wife and loving mother, of Irish and German heritage, who enjoyed art and music. Surviving are two sons, Dr. Kenneth R. Geiser, Jr. of Somerville, Mass. and George J. (Jim) Geiser, his wife, Dr. Janet L. Cummings-Geiser of Scottsdale, Ariz.; one grandaughter, Amy Janelle Geiser of Scottsdale, Ariz. Preceding her in death were both of her parents; her husband, who passed away in 1985; and her brother, Jimmy. Memorial contributions can be made to the Planned Parenthood or the Alzheimer’s Association. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Fred C. Martinez Jr. Funeral services for Fred C. Martinez Jr. have been set for Thursday, July 5, at 1 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Burial will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Fred was born in Tuba City, Ariz., on March 15, 1985, the son of Fred C. Martinez Sr. and Pauline Cly. He died in Cortez on June 16, 2001. He was16. Fred loved music and played the clarinet. He enjoyed dancing and was a member of the Native American Club in school. He also drew satisfaction from drawing and artwork. Surviving Fred are his mother, Pauline Mitchell, of Cortez; his father, Fred Martinez Sr., of Farmington, N.M.; brothers, Jerold P. Mitchell, Jervis P. Mitchell, Merle G. (Cinthia) Daukei, Gene Daukei Jr., Sidney V. Martinez, all of Cortez, and Manuel Martinez of Acoma, N.M.; and his sister, Raferlita Martinez, of Farmington, N.M. Fred is also survived by two paternal aunts, Virginia Henry and Rose Armstrong; one paternal uncle, Custer Martinez; three maternal uncles, Ben Stanley, Henry Stanley, and Dave Stanley; one maternal aunt, Bessie Cly; two nephews, Rashaan Mitchell and Tyler Smith; and two nieces, Tashine Martinez and Socamera Daukei. Memorial contributions can be made with the Citizens State Bank of Cortez.
Kenneth Loren Dean Gapp Funeral services for Kenneth Loren Dean Gapp of Cortez will be held Thursday, July 5, at the Trinity Lutheran Church at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Pastor Gary Thur will officiate. Visitation has been set for Tuesday evening at the Ertel Memorial Chapel between 5 and 7. Kenny was born on Aug. 3, 1986, in Montrose, Colo., to Loren William and Chandra Lynn (Jones) Gapp. He passed away in Cortez on June 29, 2001. He was 14. Kenny's spirit engulfed those he came into contact with. His smile and his eyes made him the charmer that he was. He overcame the challenges in his life. Kenny's goal was to have his family happy and together. He was a loving and wonderful brother. Many lives and friends were touched by Kenny. Surviving Kenny are his father, Loren Gapp, and his fiancée, Deb Koenigs, of Phoenix, Ariz.; his mother, Chandra Jones, and her companion, Jim, of Las Vegas, Nev.; brothers, Kevin Gapp of Phoenix and Chris Jones of Las Vegas; and friends, Amber, Ryan and Kyle Koenigs, of Phoenix. He is also survived by his grandparents, Phyllis and Jack Gapp of Cortez, Vicki Jones of Montrose, and Orin Jones of Las Vegas; great-grandmother, Helen Cox of Yakima, Wash.; aunts and uncles, Cheryl and Jim Beene and family, of Cortez; David and Deb Gapp and family, of Palisade, Colo.; Bobby Gapp and son of Homosassa, Fla.; Jeff and Anna Jones and family, Curtis Jones and daughters, Orin and Crystal Jones Jr. and family, and Shelby Jones and family, all of Las Vegas, Nev. Memorial contributions can be made at the Citizens State Bank of Cortez.
Melvyn E. (Mel) Stein Melvyn E. (Mel) Stein passed away Sunday, June 24, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, Colo., the victim of a head-on collision in Montrose on Saturday evening. Mel was not at fault. He was born in Chicago on May 18, 1927, to Sarah "Brownie" Stein and William "Willie" Stein. After high-school graduation, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. After the war, he attended law school. He spent 10 years as a trial attorney and special agent with the U.S. Department of Justice, Immigration and Naturalization Service, Chicago office. During this time, he made many legal decisions that are still referred to as legal precedent. Mel then went into private practice and enjoyed international renown. He was very proud of his country, and if a client did not appreciate his good fortune at being accepted for U.S. citizenship, Mel would tell him or her to "get the (heck) out of my office." He was very proud of his children, who followed him into the immigration and legal fields. Mel was active in community affairs in Evanston, Ill., for five years, and for the past 23 years, he lived in Northfield, Ill. Mel was a diehard Chicago sports fan, but he rooted for the Cubs even louder than he did for any other Chicago team. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Llois Alpert Stein of Cortez; daughter, Doree Sue Stein of Evanston; son, Eric of Vail, Colo. and brother, Arnold of Northfield, as well as his nieces, Andrea and Diana, and nephew, Nicholas. A small service was held on June 28 at Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver. Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, 800-457-6676, www.pdf.org. |
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