Blanche L. Risenhoover

Funeral services for Blanche Lorene Risenhoover, lifelong resident of Cortez will be held at 11 a.m., Friday, Nov. 2, at the Cortez First Southern Baptist Church. Pastor Jimmy Kennedy will officate.Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. A visitation is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 1, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel from 5 to 7 p.m.

Lorene was born on Dec. 15, 1914 in Stillwater, Okla., to Dennis Samuel and Blanche Viola (White) Neely. She passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2001at the Southwest Memorial Hospital. Lorene was 86 years old.

Lorene married her darling Nathan Noel Risenhoover and became a dedicated homemaker. An enthusiastic bowler, she bowled until she was 75 years old. Lorene was also a member of the First Southern Baptist Church.

She is survived by her children, Ruth Cramer of Cortez, Leon (Saralynn) Risenhoover of Dolores, and Ed (Donna) Risenhoover of LaPlata, N.M.; siblings Raymond Neely of Cortez, Berniece Lewis of Cortez; her two aunts, Hallie Ismay of Cortez, and Blanche Barlow of Redding, Calif.; 13 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and many great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Nathan Noel Risenhoover; and her two sons, Noel and Neal Risenhoover.

Pauline E. Walden

Funeral services for Pauline Evelyn Walden will be held at 2 p.m. today, Nov. 1, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel Mr. Hunt Zumwalt of the Church of Christ will officiate. Interment will follow at the Lebanon Cemetery.

Pauline was born in Shubert, Neb. on Nov. 8, 1919 to Sadie and Paul Ramer. She passed away on Monday, Oct. 29, 2001 at Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 81.

While Pauline was still a child, the family moved to Colorado and settled near Lebanon where her parents resided the remainder of their lives. Pauline and all of her brothers and sisters attended the old Lebanon school.

Pauline married John Marshall Walden on January 11, 1939. Although she lived in many locations around Colorado during her lifetime, she regarded Cortez and Montezuma County as home. She enjoyed gardening and was an avid reader. History was a subject Pauline especially enjoyed. Pauline was a longtime member of the Church of Christ.

Surviving Pauline are her children, Sandra K. McEwen of Odessa, Texas, John Marshall Walden Jr. of Cortez, and Joy Chadwick of Bloomfield, N.M.; sisters, Thelma Butler of Cottonwood, Ariz., Louetta Lovely of Denver, Mary Lou Greenwood, and Wilma Huffman both of Farmington, N.M.; four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed by all her family

Preceding Pauline in death were her loving husband John Marshall Walden in 1983, her parents, and three brothers.

Lottie Elizabeth Reddert

Funeral services for longtime Mancos resident Lottie Elizabeth Walker Reddert are scheduled for 2 p.m. today, Oct. 30, at the Mancos United Methodist Church beginning. Visitation is today, at the church, from noon to 1 p.m. Interment will follow at the Cedar Grove Cemetery. The Revs. Ora Dailey and Bud Rousset will officiate.

Lottie was born in Pagosa Springs, Colo. on July 4, 1904, to John Everett and Winifred Alice (Richmond) Walker. She passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez on Thursday, Oct. 25, 2001. She was 97.

Lottie wed Frederick Etzler Reddert on May 29, 1926 in Denver. The couple moved to California where the young Dr. Reddert established a large, successful veterinary practice. In 1954, F.E. and Lottie moved to Mancos, returning to the area they both loved so much. "Doc" as he was fondly referred to began to practice veterinary medicine in this area with Lottie as his assistant. They celebrated 52 years of marriage.

A very active woman, Lottie was a member and involved in the activities of the Mancos Methodist Church, as well as a member of the Cowbells and a P.E.O.

Surviving Lottie are her two daughters, Naomi Reddert of Carmel, Calif., and Norma Brown of Santa Rosa, Calif. She is also survived by her grandchildren and their families, Ryan Brown and Christine Healey, and their children, Nathaniel Healey Brown and Gabriel Healey Brown, Derrick Stephen Brown and Debbie Hellman, and their child, Julianna Hellman Brown, and Kevin Frederick Brown and Jeri Yamasharo Brown, and their child, Mikayla Mieko Brown.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Fred and Lottie Reddert Educational Scholarship c/o San Juan Basin Vo-Tech School, Mancos United Methodist Church, or an educational charity of choice. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Ben Sheley

Services are pending for longtime Cortez resident Ben Sheley. Ben passed away on Monday, Oct. 29, 2001, in Tahlequah, Okla. at the age of 70.

For further service information, please contact the Ertel Funeral Home at 565-3468.

Alfred A. Partner

Funeral services for Alfred Atherley Partner will be held 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Bishop Larry Yarbrough will officiate. Interment will follow at the Summit Ridge Cemetery. The Ute Mountain American Legion Post #75 will be conducting a military graveside service. Visitation is today, Oct. 30,at the Ertel Memorial Chapel from 7 to 9 p.m.

Al was born on Oct. 28, 1923, in Henrieville, Utah to Alfred George and Annie (Atherley) Partner. He passed away on Friday, Oct. 26, 2001, at the Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos. He was 77.

Al joined the Marine Corps in 1942 and served four years in combat on Marianas Island during World War II. Upon his return, Al married his sweetheart Beth Norton in Panguitch, Utah on Feb. 18, 1946. This marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake LDS Temple on Oct. 17, 1949. To this union were born seven children. The family has been completed with grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Alfred operated his upholstery business for over 50 years. He loved to work on and restore furniture. He resided in this beautiful area for 30 years. He loved the mountains, his family and delighted in taking children and grandchildren on picnics and hunting trips. On these outings he would point out the beauty of Colorado to them. Al loved his family and was a great example of integrity, which was an integral part of his character.

Surviving Al are his wife, Beth Partner of Dolores.; children, Kathleen (Jerry) O'Brien of Gilbert, Ariz., Sybil (Vince) Carrillo of Glendale, Ariz., Anna (Thomas Noble) Hansen of St. Johns, Ariz., Diane Partner of Valencia, Calif., Dona A. (Patricia) Partner of Baring, Wash., and Karl Taylor (Leila) Partner of Cortland, Virg.; and his sister, Velma Barlow and her husband of Layton, Utah. Also surviving Al are his 20 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, one half-sister and three half-brothers.

Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Virginia Lee Bingham

Virginia Lee Bingham was born to William "Bill" and Tina Marie (Hargis) Wilcox on Aug. 25, 1925 in Clarinda, Iowa. She passed away on Oct. 27, 2001 at her home in Mancos. Virginia was 76 years old.

On Dec. 1, 1943 in Portland, Ore., Virginia married Marvin "Dutch" Bingham. In 1969 Dutch and Virginia Bingham moved to the Mancos Valley. She was a devoted sports fan, especially to the Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals and the Denver Broncos. She also was a loving mother and grandmother to her five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Virginia is survived by her two children, Terry and Christie Bingham of New Castle, Colo. and Kelly Bingham of Mancos; her grandchildren, Cully Bingham of Andrews, Texas, Thad and Barb Bingham of Fruita, Colo., Britt (Bingham) and Doug Choate of Rifle, Colo., and Matt and Ryan Bingham of Mancos; and one great-grandchild, Tommy Bingham. One sister, Wanda June Ross of Bedford, Iowa and numerous nephews and nieces also survive Virginia.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dutch; her parents, two sisters, and one brother.

Memorial contributions can be made with the Citizens State Bank of Cortez to benefit the Mancos Fire Department.

Ertel Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Roberta D. Sanders

Services for Roberta D. Sanders of Cortez are scheduled for 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 26th at the Memorial Park Cemetery Chapel in Tulsa, Okla. Local arrangements are being made though the Ertel Funeral Home.

Roberta was born to William and Delpha (Wantland) Rodgers on Dec. 2, 1926 in Shamrock, Okla. She passed away on Monday, Oct. 22, 2001 at her home in Cortez. She was 74.

Roberta married Robert D. Sanders on Sept. 20 1946, in Tulsa. They created a family of five, with children Michael, Paul and Julie. Roberta became a wonderful grandmother who loved her grandchildren dearly. She was a member of the Baptist Church and the PEO Sisterhood, and enjoyed traveling throughout the Untied States.

Roberta is survived by her children, Michael (Debi Kay) Sanders of Pawnee, Okla.; Paul (Susan) Sanders of Stillwater, Okla. and Julie (Doug) Van Deventer of Cortez; seven grandchildren, Sarah, Joshua (Shelby), Jacob, Brent, Carter, Joe and Erin; sisters, Burnice (Ray) Morris of Tulsa; Myrtle Howell of Little Rock, Ark. and Lee (Blackie) Blacklock of Arlington, Texas; two brothers-in-law, one sister-in-law and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Robert; two infant sons and her sisters, Avon Seaveno and Edith Niskern.

Memorial contributions can be made with Hospice of Montezuma, 1108 N. Mildred Road, Ste. B, Cortez, CO 81321.

Arthur "Art" Stanley Norris

Memorial services for Arthur "Art" Stanley Norris will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 27, at the Arriola Community Center. A visitation is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 26 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. The Revs. Jim Wince and Warren Cheek will officiate.

Art was born on April 1, 1915, in New Westminster, British Columbia, to Edward John and Karen Heppuch (Brayley) Norris. He passed away on Monday, Oct. 22, 2001 at the Vista Grande Nursing Home in Cortez. He was 86.

Art married Emalou Anderson on Oct. 1, 1944, in Window Rock, Ariz. They moved to the Cortez area in 1948, where they shared their lives. Art dedicated his life to the Lord by serving as a full-time missionary.

He is survived by his wife, Emalou Norris of Cortez; children, Karen Norris of Colorado Springs, Colo.; Paul (Bonnie) Norris of Santa Fe; Ruth (John) Pearson, Tim (Donna) Norris and Faith Jones, all of Cortez and Dan (Becky) Norris of Cahone; brother, Cyril (Winnie) Norris of Newport Beach, Calif. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and son-in-law, Jim Jones.

 

 

Thomas Ray Quinnett II

Memorial contributions may be made with Citizens State Bank. Services are under the direction of Ertel Funeral Home.Services are pending for Thomas Ray Quinnett II. Tom passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2001, in Cortez. He was 18.

For further service information, phone the Ertel Funeral Home at 565-3468.

 

Lillian Reigel

Services are pending for Lillian Reigel of the Cortez area. Mrs. Reigel passed away at the Vista Grande Nursing Home on Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2001. She was 76.

For further service information, phone the Ertel Funeral Home at 565-3468.

 

Cassie Jule Blair

Graveside services for Cassie Jule Blair will be held 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 26, at the Cortez Cemetery.

Cassie was born to James and Sheryl (Jordan) Blair on April 9, 1983 in Cortez. She passed away Tuesday, Oct. 23, 2001, as a result of an automobile accident in Cortez. She was 18.

Cassie was an outgoing, friendly girl who shared many friendships. She graduated from Montezuma-Cortez High School in May, 2001. An avid snowboarder, her goal was to work in Telluride.

She is survived by her parents, James and Sheryl of Cortez; brother J.R. (Angella) Blair of Cortez; nephews, Nathan, Rylan and Gavyn Blair of Cortez; grandmothers, Yolanda Blair of Cortez and Josie Jordan of Farmington, N.M.

She was preceded in death by both of her grandfathers, Frank Blair and Dale Jordan.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

 

 

Harriet E. Brock 

Graveside services for Harriet E. Brock of Cortez will be held at 10 a.m. today at the Cortez Cemetery. Members from the Bahai Church will conduct services.

Harriet was born on July 24, 1913, to Alcid J. and Mary Emily (Bent) St.Laurent in Greenfield, Mass. She passed away on Saturday, Oct. 20, 2001 at Southwest Memorial Hospital. She was 88.

She is survived by her friends and fellow church members. Preceding Harriet in death are her parents; her husband, Thomas A. Brock; and her son, Paul Brock.

 

Edward Leander "Jake" Jacobson

Graveside services for lifelong Cortez resident Edward Leander "Jake" Jacobson will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 24, at the Summit Ridge Cemetery. The Rev. Pat Boots will officiate

Jake was born Oct. 13, 1915, in Dunton, Colo., to Jack and Ellen Sophia (Erickson) Jacobson. He passed away at the Vista Grande Nursing Home on Oct. 21, 2001. He was 86.

Jake graduated from Dolores High School in 1934. He took Margaret Louise Hoover to be his bride. They had two sons, Gary and Jack, and a daughter, Jane.

He worked numerous years as a postal worker at the Cortez Post Office. A member of the Cortez Elks Lodge #1789, Jake enjoyed visiting with friends at the club. He loved to fish, hunt, golf and to play all card games.

Surviving Jake are his children, Gary L. (Jill) Jacobson of Moab, Utah, Jack R. (Laura) Jacobson of Cortez, and Jane E. Duncan and companion, Mike Ashcroft of Lewis; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild, two sisters and their families.

Memorial contributions can be made at the First National Bank of Cortez. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Cotton Berry

Funeral services for Thomas O.K. "Cotton" Berry, a former Cortez resident, will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 25, at the First Assembly of God church in Cortez. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Pastor Don Henderson will officiate. Visitation will be held Thursday morning at the church at 10.

Cotton was born to Wilson William and Bessie Lee (Isbell) Berry on March 9, 1925, in Bell County, Texas. He passed away on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2001, at Shawnee Hospital, Shawnee, Okla. He was 76.

Cotton joined the Navy and fought in World War II.

He married his sweetheart, Sivillia Jewell Dean Patterson, on Nov. 16, 1948, in Oklahoma. Working in the oil industry, Cotton became the production manager for Superior Oil.

He moved to Tecumseh, Okla., one year ago.

He is survived by his children, David Berry and Jaki Berry, both of Denver. Preceding him in death were his parents and his wife, who passed away in December 1999.

 

 

James Franklin "Jack" Medley

Funeral services for longtime Dove Creek resident, James Franklin "Jack" Medley will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 20, at the Dove Creek First Assembly of God Church. Interment will follow at the Dove Creek Cemetery.

Jack was born in Quinlan, Texas on May 28, 1908, the son of Robert Franklin and Ila Zee (Williams) Medley. He passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 2001. He was 93.

Ruby Mae Toles became Jack's bride on April 15, 1933 in Monticello, Utah. To this union were born four children, Bruce, Clinton, Shirley, and Carol.

Jack enjoyed farming and growing pinto beans. He also loved old cars, and his time spent with family and friends.

Jack is survived by his wife of 68 years, Ruby Medley of Dove Creek; children, Clinton and Charlene Medley of Cahone, Shirley and Jerry Dennis of Dolores, and Carol and Dave Martinez of Williams, Ariz.; nieces and nephews that he and Ruby raised, Alva, Nita, Ann and Carl Toles; 14 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren and two sisters, Lorene Ford of Agra, Okla., and Evalene and Bob Goodnight of Floydada, Texas.

Preceding Jack in death were his son Bruce Medley and granddaughter, Patty.

Memorial contributions can be made at the Community Bank in Dove Creek to benefit the Dove Creek Ambulance Fund. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

 

Whetsel Allen

Funeral services for Whetsel Allen are pending. Mr. Allen passed away Wednesday, Oct. 17, 2001 at the Golden Years Retirement Home in Dolores. He was 91 years old. For further service information contact the Ertel Funeral Home at 565-3468.

 

 

Lois Greenlee

Services for Lois Greenlee will be held at the Montezuma Valley Presbyterian Church, at a later date.

Lois passed away at her home on Sunday, Oct. 14, 2001. She was born Feb. 1, 1913, to Mary and Lester Butler in Cleburne, Texas, the eldest of 12 children.

The Butlers lived in the Dolores area from 1918 on. They acquired a homestead on Granith Mesa, north of Dolores in 1920.

In the 1930s, Lois taught in rural, one-room schools in the Cortez and Dolores area. While she was teaching at the Mesa Verde School, south of Cortez, she met George Greenlee. They were married Aug. 17, 1935, and together maintained a ranch and comfortable home.

Lois was a talented seamstress, great cook and creative housewife. She was an active member of the Presbyterian church.

She will be missed and remembered for her kindness, quick wit, intellectual ability and inquisitive nature. She had been a resident at Madison House, where she and George lived since 1994.

Lois is survived by her children, Georgia Ramsey of Tucson, Ariz.; Gale Greenlee of Cortez; Grace VandenBerg of Canoga Park, Calif.; brothers, Paul Butler of Dolores, Maurice Butler of Apache Junction, Ariz., John Butler of Palisade, Colo.; sisters, Ruth Dennison of Olathe, Colo., Hannah Blackburn of Farmington, N.M., and Sarah Barner of Holt, Mich.

Lois is also survived by her grandchildren, Amy Hansen of Tucson, Farrell Greenlee of Cortez, and David and Molly Greenlee of Carmel, N.Y. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and friends in the community.

Lois was preceded in death by her husband, George.

Marion Francis "Mac" McGechie

Military graveside services for Marion Francis "Mac" McGechie of Cortez will be held at 4 p.m., Friday, Oct. 19, at the Cortez Cemetery. American Legion Post #75 will be conducting the service. There will be a visitation on Friday, from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Mac was born on July 31, 1925 to William Morgan and Ethel Lizzie (Ergenbright) McGechie in Arriola. He passed away on Friday, Oct. 12, 2001 at the Pine Street Care Center in Cortez. Mac was 76.

Serving his country in the Navy, Mac was at Pearl Harbor when it was bombed. He later became a member of the American Legion, and the Elks. Mac was also a 50-year member of the Masons.

Surviving him are his children, Michael McGechie, and Colleen McGechie; his stepchildren, Joyce Roberts, Barb Fitzwater, Terry Robertson, and Roxie Giegle; his siblings, Robert E. McGechie, and Paul McGechie; his grandchildren, Troy Maxon, and Dustin Theobald; his great-grandchild, Logan Maxon; and his best friend Al Penasa.

Preceding him in death are his parents; his wives, Bea McGechie, and Betty McGechie; and his siblings, Vera, Bill and O.G.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Eula Marie Greenlee

Funeral services for Eula Marie Greenlee, a longtime Cortez resident will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 18, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. The Rev. Johnny Arrington of the Johnson Memorial United Methodist Church will officiate. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Eula was born to Perry and Daisy (Clayton) Baskett on Nov. 3, 1903 in Douglas, Kans. She passed away at Golden Years Retirement Home in Dolores on Sunday, Oct. 14, 2001. Eula was just short of turning 98 yearsold.

During World War II, Eula was one of the "Rosie the Riveters" for Reynolds Aluminum in Arizona. To the very end of her life, Eula kept a wonderful sense of humor. Life did not get her down. She loved nothing more than a good card game and would happily drop whatever she was doing to enter into a game. She also found satisfaction mastering Word Find puzzles.

Surviving Eula are her daughter, Mary E. (Bill) Martin of Wallport, Ore.; her son, Bill Greenlee of Tolleson, Ariz.; and six grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren.

Preceding Eula in death were her husband, Yuell Franklin Greenlee in1986, and her daughter, Betty Jean Forest in January 2001.

Memorial contributions can be made with the American Heart Association. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

 

Doyle Lyndell "Doc" Knuckles

Graveside services for Doyle Lyndell "Doc" Knuckles of Dove Creek will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 13, at Peel Cemetery. Pastor Jimmie Carter will officiate. There will be a visitation Friday, Oct. 12, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and Saturday, October 13, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Doc was born to William Thomas and Mary Etta (Martin) Knuckles on March 2, 1917 in Reynolds County, Mo. He passed away Tuesday, Oct. 9, 2001 at the Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos. Doc was 84.

On April 14,1938 Doc married his sweetheart Eva Wilson in Monticello, Utah. Together they farmed and ranched in Dove Creek. Doc was a passionate rancher who loved to watch his white- faced cattle. A lover of the outdoors, He enjoyed hunting and fishing. Doc was also very fond of reading.

Surviving Doc are his wife, Eva Knuckles of Dove Creek; his children, William Thomas (Beverly) Knuckles of Egnar; Mary (Harry) Geisinger of Cortez; Frankie (Arveta) Knuckles of Dove Creek; Ronny D. (Betty) Knuckles of the Disappointment Valley area; Patricia D. (Gary) Ives of Cortez; his siblings, Goldie McNeely and Sylvia Church, both of Grand Junction, Colo.; and 14 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Cordia Jane Knuckles; and his grandchildren, Denny Geisinger and Verna D. Morgan.

Memorial contributions can be made in Doc's name with the Dove Creek Ambulance Fund.

 

Andrew Holmes

Memorial services for Ted Andrew Holmes of Mancos will be held Monday, Oct. 15, at the Converse Funeral Chapel in Douglas, Wyo., at 2 p.m. Pastor Richard Gaub of the Mount Hope Lutheran Church of Casper, Wyo. will officiate.

Ted was born in Van Nuys, Calif., on Dec. 2, 1962, to Walter George Holmes and Yvonne (Rosberg) Holmes. He passed away as the result of an accident on Oct. 9, 2001, in Mancos. He was 38.

On Feb. 20, 1992, Ted married Karen Sullivan in Nashville, Tenn. They enjoyed nine years of marriage and working together.

Surviving are his wife, Karen, of Mancos; father, Walter Holmes and wife, Margaret, of Las Vegas, Nev.; mother, Yvonne Turner and husband, Larry of Douglas, Wyo.; son, Derek Quick of Douglas; grandmother, Gladys Rosberg of Bottineau, N.D.; brothers, Rory (Bridget) Holmes of Thermopolis, Wyo. and Drew (Kristine) Holmes of Mesa, Ariz.; and sister, Melanie (Art) Bullock of Casper, Wyo.

Anastasia Margarita "Anna" Martinez

Funeral services for Anastasia Margarita "Anna" Martinez, a resident of Cortez, will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 13, at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Father Thomas Munson will officiate. Prayer Vigil will be held Friday at the church beginning at 7 p.m. with a visitation period being held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Born April 6, 1916 in Ensanada, N.M., Anna was the daughter of Patricio and Margarita (Archuleta) Velasquez. She passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital on Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2001 at the age of 85.

Anna wed Isaias Martinez and to this union were born seven children; Bernie, Priscilla, Joe, Margaret, Pat, Arcilie, and Rose Marie. She was a member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas and enjoyed in her spare time to read, sew, crochet, play cards and Bingo.

Surviving Anna are her children, Bernie (Gus) Torres of Cortez, Priscilla Burris of Denver; Joe I. Martinez of Cortez; Margaret (Jasper) Vallejos of Durango, and Pat Marez of Peoria, Ariz.; and 20 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren. Four sisters, Rebecca Velasco of Casper, Wyo., Lela Martinez of Mancos, Margaret Martinez of Dolores, and Mary Sena of Mancos; and a brother, Kelly Velasquez of Dolores, also survive Anna. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

 

 

Helen Mae Cooper

Services for Helen Mae Cooper, a longtime resident of this area, are pending with the Ertel Funeral Home.

Mrs. Cooper was born in Rico, on March 28, 1917. She passed away at her home in Cortez on Oct. 5, 2001. She was 84 years old.

 

George W. Towns

Funeral services for George W. Towns, 93, will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 6 at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Lebanon Cemetery. Mr. Hunt Zumwalt and Mrs. Julia Smith will officiate. Visitation has been set for Saturday afternoon from 1 p.m. until service time at the Ertel Chapel.

George was born to Walter and Taressa Ann (Wright) Towns on April 15, 1908 in Hardeman County, Texas. He passed away on Monday, Oct. 1, 2001 at the Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos.

On Nov. 13, 1931, in Lovington, N.M. George married his sweetheart Lauralee Hale. In 1977 George moved to the Dolores area. He lived his life as both a sheep rancher and a horse race trainer. With his hard working personality came a man who loved to write poetry and songs. He also enjoyed bluegrass and gospel music. George was also a member of the Church of Christ.

George is survived by his children, Julia (J.D.) Towns Smith of Mancos, and Lex Carroll (Anita) Towns of Missouri; his siblings, Lillie Chitwood of Fremont, Calif., and F.C. Towns of Seattle, Wash.; and his grandchildren, Wayne Jay (Lisa) Smith of Grand Junction, Colo., Jesse Karl (Suzette) Smith of Denver, Hale Turner (Molly) Towns of Chicago, and Janelle Sarah Towns of St. Louis, Mo.

His parents, and his wife, Lauralee Towns, preceded him in death.

Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Carol Ileen Hoy

Funeral services for Carol Ileen Hoy of Cortez will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 5 at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. The Rev. Lynn Evans of the Cortez First United Methodist Church will officiate. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Carol, the daughter of Melvin and Charolette (Wenzel) Hines was born in Brainerd, Minn., on July 8, 1953. She passed away at her home in Cortez on Wednesday, Oct. 3, 2001, at the age of 48.

On Aug. 26, 1996 in Cortez, Carol wed Benjamin Chase Hoy Jr. She was a creative person enjoying having her hands busy with various needle crafts. She particularly liked to quilt, crochet, and needlepoint plastic canvass

Surviving Carol are her husband, Chase Hoy of Cortez; her mother, Charolette Wenzel Hines of Gillette, Wyo.; her son, Richard Shane (Charlene) Marx of Arriola; daughters, Robin Marie (Justin) Dodson and Brandi Lynn (Anthony) Saben both of Cortez; and seven grandchildren.

Carol is also survived by brothers, Dean Hines and Bob Hines both of Gillette, Wyo., and Rick Chornuck; and sisters, Tammy (Steve) Overlease of Laird, Colo., and Traci (Steve) Burr of Gillette, Wyo.

Memorial contributions can be made with Hospice of Montezuma. Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Elma E. Evensen

Elma E. Evensen, 90, died Friday, Sept. 28, 2001, at her home in Durango. A funeral service will be today, at 10 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 2 Hilltop Circle, with Bishop James Cooper officiating. Burial will occur at Greenmount Cemetery in Durango.

Mrs. Evensen was born April 20, 1911, in Paola, Kan., to William and Frieda Peine. She married Clifford Hermand Evensen on June 8, 1937, at the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Mrs. Evensen taught piano and organ lessons in Durango and was a church organist for 73 years. Mrs. Evensen also played in a small dance band here in Durango. She was an avid gardener.

She is survived by four children: Ronald Evensen, Provo, Utah; Val Evensen, Durango; Elaine Bard, Randlett, Utah; and Karen Christensen, Farmington, N.M.; a brother, Fred Peine of St. George, Utah; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Her husband, Clifford Hermand Evensen, preceded her in death on Nov. 22, 2000.

Memorial contributions may be made to The LDS Missionary Fund, 2603 N. College Dr., Durango, CO 81301, or Hospice of Mercy , 375 E. Park Ave., Durango CO 81301.

 

William Wright Clarkson

Services for William Wright Clarkson, 93, of Cortez, will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 3, at the First Assembly of God Church. Pastor Don Henderson will officiate. Interment will follow in the Cortez Cemetery.

Visitation is today, from 3 to 6 p.m. at Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, who are serving the family.

Mr. Clarkson passed away Sept. 28, 2001, at his residence. He was born to John Holland and Pearl Ella Wright Clarkson on June 9, 1908, at Webster Grove, Mo. The family moved to California, where Mr. Clarkson grew up and graduated from the Hollywood High School. He received a degree in accounting from the University of California.

On June 2, 1938, he married his beloved wife, Constance Patch, in Hollywood, at the Congregational Church. They were blessed with three children.

Mr. Clarkson was self-employed as an accountant until his retirement. He moved to Cortez in 1993, and was a member of the First Assembly of God Church.

Mr. Clarkson enjoyed riding his bicycle and his horse, and played the accordion in a dance band. He was very active in the Boy Scouts of America in Pasadena, Calif.

William Wright Clarkson is survived by his wife of 63 years, Constance of Cortez; son, Dr. Kenneth (Mary Jane) Clarkson and grandsons Steven and Tom of Coral Gables, Fla.; daughters, Edythe (Monty) Monroe and granddaughter, Jennifer of Cortez; Dorothy (James) Allen and grandchildren Jerry and Janice of Jacksonville, Fla.; nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

James Allen "Jim" King

Funeral services for James Allen "Jim" King will be held at 10 a.m. today at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Father Thomas Munson will officiate.

Jim was born to Frank and Rachel (Johnson) King on April 10, 1925 in Colorado Springs, Colo. He passed away on Friday, September 28, 2001 at his home in Cortez.

Jim was raised on a ranch in Pagosa Springs. In May of 1942 he graduated high school from Pagosa. After graduation Jim decided to serve his country by joining the Army. He served from 1942 to 1945. Jim fought in the Philippines, and saw combat on the island of Mindinao. He was promoted to sergeant at that time.

After the war, he worked for Barlow Trucking Company in Denver. Later in 1951 Jim worked as a contractor for Hutchinson Homes in Denver.

On April 20, 1966 Jim married Irene Brennan. In 1979 they moved to the Cortez area where Jim worked as a carpenter until his retirement in 2000.

Jim is survived by his wife, Irene King of Cortez; his sister, Frances Davis of Denver.; brother, Sid King of Denver; and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding Jim in death are his parents; and his brother, Arthur King.

Memorial contributions can be made at Citizens State Bank of Cortez to benefit Hospice of Montezuma. Services will be conducted by the Ertel Funeral Home.

 

Elizabeth Ann Morris and Allen Morris

Memorial services will be held for Elizabeth "Liz" Ann Morris and Allen Morris, on Sunday, Oct. 21. Services will be conducted at the American Legion, 320 N. Harrison, at 2 p.m. Funeral services were previously held in Riverton, Wyo.

The Morrises passed away on Sunday, Sept. 30, in Wyoming. Mrs. Elizabeth Morris was born on Dec. 17, 1949 in Cortez, to Guy Dyer and Ruth Taylor. Mr. Allen Morris was born June 15, 1961 in Riverton, to Waldo R. Morris and Bonnie Stickney.

Elizabeth is survived by her father, Guy Dyer and wife Marty of Cortez; her mother, Ruth Taylor of Lakewood, Colo.; four sons, three brothers, three sisters, six grandchildren and other family.

Allen is survived by his parents, Clifford and Bonnie Stickney of Pavillion; one son; one brother; two sisters and one stepsister.

Allen was preceded in death by his father, Waldo R. Morris; a sister, and his grandparents. A brother, Darun Taylor, and her grandparents preceded Elizabeth in death.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Legion Post #75, 320 N. Harrison, Cortez, CO 81321.

 

Devon Edward Banks

A memorial service for Devon Edward Banks will be held at 1 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 30, at Calvary Baptist Church, 2501 E. 20th, Farmington, N.M.

Devon passed away in Santee, Calif., on Sept. 15, 2001. He was 21.

He was born April 19, 1980, in San Diego, Calif., to Chuck and Kathy Banks.

Devon worked as an apprentice machinist in Santee at the time of his death.

He leaves to mourn, his parents, of Farmington; sister, Amanda Banks, of the family home; aunts and uncles, Billy and Marti Spitzer and family of Dove Creek; Buddy and Kati Banks and family, also of Dove Creek, and paternal grandmother, Mary Banks, of Farmington.

 

 

Nell Sodic

Funeral services for Nell Sodic, 72, of Dove Creek, will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 29, at St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Dove Creek. Father Tom Munson will officiate.

Nell was born on Aug. 5, 1929, to Voll Hardin and Juanita (Newberry) Williams in Cañon City, Colo. She passed away Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2001 at the Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos.

On Aug. 29, 1947, Nell married her sweetheart, John Sodic in Leadville, Colo. Nell enjoyed her life as a seamstress and homemaker. She loved to quilt, paint, write poetry and spend time outdoors. She was also a member of the Rebekahs Lodge. The most important part of Nell’s life was her family.

She is survived by her children, Nita (Joe) Purkat of Dove Creek; Clifford (Lupe) Sodic of Brighton, Colo. and Bert (Grace) Sodic of Leadville; siblings, Hardin (Myrtle) Williams Massilon, Ohio; Bert Williams of Delta, Colo.; Marty (Barbara) Williams of Leadville; Betty, (Frank) Burch of Grand Junction, Colo.; Ruth (Anton) Purkat of Leadville; Avis Sodic of Colorado Springs, Colo.; aunt, Gladys Gird of Grand Junction; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions can be made with Hospice at the Community Bank of Dove Creek. Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

 

 

Archie R. Seitz

Archie R. Seitz, a resident of Berryville, Ark., was born Aug. 13, 1928, in Cortez to Ralph Waldo and Maddie Lee (Odam) Seitz. He departed this life Sunday, Aug. 19, 2001, in his home at the age of 73.

Mr. Seitz was a veteran having serving his country with the U. S. Army during World War II and the Korean Conflict. He was a 100 percent service-connected disabled American veteran and a lifetime member of the V.F.W. and D.A.V. He was also a member of the American Legion, having served a previous commander of the Carrolitos V.F.W. Post #87 and the American Legion #389.

On Nov. 25, 1986, he was united in marriage with Dixielee B. (Brown) Seitz, who survives him. He is also survived by a stepson, Mitchell Dean and his wife Linda Gail (Ross) Santella of Berryville; three stepchildren, Michael Skyhawk-K Santella, Moonshaddoww Santello, and Summer Rain-N Santella; and one brother, Leon D. Seitz, Sr., of Cortez.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Willis B. Seitz, and one sister, Nina Lee Hampton.

Graveside funeral services were held Aug. 22 at the Gobbler Cemetery and interment followed under the direction of Nelson Funeral Service. 

Eugene William "Gene" Tozer

Memorial services for Eugene William "Gene" Tozer, 77 of Cortez, will be held 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 27, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Pastor Don Henderson will officiate.
Gene was born on February 18, 1924 in Cortez, to Clyde I. and Liddie Anna (Meadows) Tozer. He passed away on Sunday, Sept. 23, 2001 at his home in Cortez.

As a farmer and rancher Gene enjoyed growing vegetables and giving them to his friends. He enjoyed telling stories to others and loved little kids. Animals were an interest of Gene's as well. 
On Dec. 23, 1946 Gene married DeLouris Cox in Aztec, N.M.

Gene is survived by his wife, DeLouris Tozer of Cortez; children, Vicki (Ron) Porter, Kim (Scott) Stiegelmeyer, and Karen (Fred) Palmer all of Cortez; brother, Chester (Joan) Tozer of McElmo; grandchildren, Rickie Tozer, Kenna Messier, Jennifer Roundtree, and Callie Palmer; great-grandson, Alec Courtney; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death are his parents; his son, Kent Tozer; two brothers and one sister.
Memorial contributions can be made in Gene's name with the Dolores State Bank-Cortez Branch or with Hospice of Montezuma.

Gene C. Lindberg

Gene C. Lindberg, 62 of Dolores was born to Wesley Lester F. and Clara V. (Comstock) Lindberg on Jan. 18, 1939 in Roseau, MN. He passed away Saturday, Sept. 22, 2001 at the Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos. 
He is survived by his son, Charles Wesley Lindberg; and his sisters, Sharon Conway, and Sonia Reynolds. Preceding Gene in death are his parents.
There are no services planned at this time.
Arrangements are being made through the Ertel Funeral Home.

 

James Renco Ayers

Services for Dove Creek resident James Renco Ayers are pending with the Ertel Funeral Home. Mr. Ayers was born Feb. 7, 1917, in Troy, Kans. He passed away at his home in Dove Creek on Sept. 21, 2001, at the age of 84.

For further service information, please contact the Ertel Funeral Home at 565-3468.

 

Robert Glover "Bob" Sherwood 

Robert Glover "Bob" Sherwood passed away at his home in Cortez on Sept. 20, 2001. He was 72.

He was born on Oct. 19, 1928, in Fairfield, Conn., to William Glover and Caroline (Metcalf) Sherwood.

Working in the banking industry, Bob was employed by the Dove Creek State Bank and later served as senior vice president of Valley National Bank from 1986 to 1992. Enjoying the outdoors, Bob loved to snow ski, duck-hunt, and play golf.

Surviving Bob are his children, Robert Scott Sherwood of Durango, Mari Lyn (Troy) Lichliter of Cortez, and William Glover Sherwood II also of Durango; as well as by two grandchildren, two brothers, and two sisters. He was preceded in death by his wife, Minna (Bohlman) Sherwood.

 

Gertrude Caroline Marsell

Funeral services for Gertrude Caroline Marsell, 85 of Mancos, will be held Monday, Sept. 24, 200, at 2 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. There will be a visitation Monday morning from 9 a.m, to noon, also at the Ertel Chapel. Interment will follow services at the Cortez Cemetery.

Gertrude was born on Nov. 11, 1915, in Cortez, Colo. to Carl and Iva (Caviness) Gregory. She passed away on Thursday, Sept. 20, 2001, at the Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos, Colo.

Surviving Gertrude are her two sons, Carl Marsell of Craig, Colo., and Richard Marsell of Fallbrook, Calif.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence L. Marsell.

 

Timothy Meyer

Timothy Meyer of Denver, a former resident of Dolores, passed away Sept. 18, 2001, at Southwest Memorial Hospital. He was 61. A memorial service is planned for a later date.

Among survivors is his wife, Marlene.

 

Andrew Gatzke

Memorial services are pending for Andrew Gatzke, 80, of Cortez. Mr. Gatzke passed away Sept. 20, 2001, at the Vista Grande Rehabilitation Care Center.

He was born to Michael and Alice Milliken Gatzke on Aug. 5, 1921, in Milford, Pa. He graduated from the Milford High School in 1939.

Mr. Gatzke served his country during World War II in the U.S. Marine Corps, into which he enlisted in 1941. He was a gunnery sergeant, and served 36 months in the South Pacific with the First Marine Raider Battalion.

He was awarded a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts for his heroic actions in service of his country. He was honorably discharged at the Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego, Calif. in 1946.
On Nov. 16, 1946, he married Maybelle Crawn, in Horseheads, N.Y. Mr. Gatzke retired as a supervisor with General Telephone Company, working in the Tri-state area of New York. He lived in Montclaire, Calif., before moving to Cortez 25 years ago.

Mr. Gatzke was a charter member of the Mt. Laurel VFW Post 8612 of Milford; the American Legion Ute Mountain Post No. 75 of Cortez; the Brixey-Hays Detachment Marine Corps League of Cortez; the Disabled American Veterans; the Four Corners Good Samaritans Club, where he was a former president; and a former member of the Elks Club of Cortez.

Andrew Gatzke is survived by his wife of 55 years, Maybelle, of Cortez; sons, Andrew (Wendy) Gatzke of Cortez; Robert R. (Mary) Bennett III of San Bernadino, Calif.; brother, Allen Gatzke of Milford; sister, Ann Van Twerp of Milford; four grandchildren, six step-grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and eight step-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Michael and William; sisters, Judy and Carie and several nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions may be made to For Pet’s Sake, P.O. Box 1703, Cortez, CO 81321; Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter, 14929 County Road G, Cortez, CO 81321, or to the Cortez Animal Shelter, 27516 Highway 160, Cortez, CO 81321.

Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale and Gerken, are serving the family.

 

Michael Stewart "Mike" Fouts

Memorial services for Michael Stewart "Mike" Fouts will be held on Monday, Sept. 24, at 10 a.m. at the Cortez First United Methodist Church. The Rev. Lynn Evans will be officiating.

Mike was born to James Robert and Mary Lou (Tressider) Fouts on Oct. 17, 1953, in Okarche, Okla. He passed away on Wed., Sept. 19, 2001 at his home in Cortez. He was 47.

Two-and-a-half years ago Mike moved to the Cortez area, where he worked as a cook. Mike loved to spend time in the outdoors fishing. He had a passion for reading as well.

He is survived by his mother and stepfather, Mary Lou and Ray Fouts of Cortez; his children, Jim Fouts of St. Helena, Ore., and Dawn Marie (Archie) Paseka of San Diego, Calif.; his sister, Jan Fouts Carroll of Greeley, Colo.; and stepsisters, Sue Ann Fouts of Evans, Colo., and Helen Ann (John) Mackenzie of Kersey, Colo. Preceding him in death was his father, James Fouts.

Waldo Archer Black

Funeral services for Waldo Archer Black of Dove Creek will be held on Saturday, Sept. 22, at 10 a.m. at the Dove Creek First Southern Baptist Church. Pastor Steve Candelaria will be officiating. Interment will follow at the Dove Creek Cemetery.

Waldo was born on July 8, 1908, to Matthew and Anna (Caskey) Black in Clay Center, Kans. He passed away on Tuesday, Sept. 18, 2001, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home in Cortez. He was 93.

On July 20, 1935, in Denver, Colo., Waldo married his sweetheart, Mary Burt. They moved to Southwest Colorado in the 1970s and resided in Dove Creek. Waldo was a resident of the Dove Creek area for 25 years where he worked as an auto mechanic. An outdoorsman, Waldo loved to hunt and fish.

He is survived by his sons, Delbert (Annetta) Black of Boulder, Colo., and Ralph Black of Lafayette, Colo.; and his brother, Glenn Black of Hubart, Ore. Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife, Mary; and his sister, Twila Venuti.

James Shelby Allmon Jr.

Graveside services for James Shelby Allmon Jr. will be held Thursday, Sept. 20, at the Flora Vista Cemetery in Flora Vista, N.M.

Jim was born Jan. 29, 1944, in Flora Vista, N.M., to James Shelby Allmon Sr. and Yvonne Rosella (Dufur) Allmon. A resident of Aztec, N.M., Jim passed away in Cortez on Sept. 14, 2001, at the age of 57.

Jim worked as a senior foreman in the Alaska oilfields for many years until he retired. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and playing cards, and always had a good story to tell.

Preceding Jim in death were his parents, James Shelby Allmon Sr. and Yvonne Rosella (Dufur) Allmon, and a granddaughter, Elizabeth Robin Allmon.

Surviving Jim are his children, Todd (Rhonda) Allmon, Robin (Kelly) Allmon, Jamie (Rodney) Ritthaler, all of Cortez; and Minnie Jo Allmon, Aztec, N.M.; stepchildren, Danny Tharp of Farmington, N.M. and Dawn Denise Tharp, of Texas; siblings Joy (Freddie "Peanut") Melott of Missouri; Hope (Jesse) Tracy, Cortez; Ivan "Rocky" Allmon, Aztec, N.M.; David Allmon, Soldotna, Alaska, and Lewie (Valerie) Allmon, Anchorage, Alaska. He also leave behind 10 grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and friends.

Memorial contributions may be made at Dolores State Bank, P.O. Box 848, Dolores, CO 81323.

Mary Ann McDowell

Mary Ann McDowell, a resident of Cortez, passed away Sept. 19, 2001, in the Vista Grande Rehabilitation Care Center in Cortez. She was 56.

A visitation is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel.

A graveside service will be held on Wednesday afternoon at 2:30 in the Cortez Cemetery. Pastor Jimmy Kennedy will officiate.

Mary Ann is survived by her loving husband, Bill, of Cortez; a brother, Bob; and other relatives and friends.

Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale & Gerken Funeral Directors, are serving the family.

Robert Eugene "Bob" Hannigan

Visitation for Robert Eugene "Bob" Hannigan will be held Monday, Sept. 17, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Bob was born to William and Minnie Blanche (Mendenhall) Hannigan while traveling in a covered wagon across Kansas. The family was unsure of the exact date of his birth, so his mother selected May 17, 1917. He passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 12, 2001, at Southwest Memorial Hospital.

Joining the Army to serve his country, Bob fought during World War II. On July 5, 1958, in Elko, Nev., he married his sweetheart, Laura Sue Jones. Sue and Bob moved to the Cortez area, where they resided for 40 years.

An outdoorsman at heart, Bob loved to hunt and fish. He also loved his grandchildren dearly.

Surviving Bob are his wife, Sue; his daughter, Martha (Robert) Rivas of Aztec, N.M.; his sister, Mildred Martin, Denver; and his grandchildren, Jillian and Alannah Rivas. Preceding him in death were his parents.

 

Artie L. Nichols

Artie L. Nichols died May 23, 2001, in Pueblo, Colo. A former diesel mechanic for the city of Mesa, Ariz., also for the city of Farmington, N.M., he had resided in Cortez for the past 2 1/2 years.

He served in the Army, spending three years in Germany. Upon discharge, he moved to Gilbert, Ariz. He was very active in the American Legion, Post 39, and the 40/8. He started their first color guard on horseback and was a lifetime member.

Survivors are his wife Wynn, two daughters from a previous marriage, Laura Minor of California and Lynda Lake of Pocatello, Idaho; a sister, Edith Kennedy, of Farmington, N.M.; a brother, Albert Nichols, of Gilbert, Ariz. Also six stepsons and a stepdaughter of the Fordem family. There are eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Those wishing may attend services at graveside Sept. 22 at 2 p.m. at the Cortez Cemetery.

 

James Everett "Jim" Wilson

Memorial services for James Everett "Jim" Wilson, 82, of Cortez will be held Thursday, Sept. 20, at 2 p.m. at the Arriola Community Center. Pastor Larry Chappell will be officiating.

Jim was born to Charles Wesley and Nancy Ethel (Stevenson) Wilson on March 6, 1919, in Yellow Jacket, Colo. He passed away on Sept. 11, 2001, at the Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez.

He is survived by his wife, Veda Wilson; his children, Terry Lewis Wilson of Cortez; Eleanor Fay (Pat) Baxstrom of Goodman Point; and Robert J. Martin of Pueblo, Colo.; his siblings, Elsie Chaffin of Arriola; Margorie (J.W.) Crowley of Cortez; Nancy Irwin of Lewis; Arthur (Esther) Wilson of Yellow Jacket; Nellie (Adrian) Bradfield of Cahone; Faye Bertrand of Cortez, and Larry (Eloise) Wilson of Mariposa, Calif.; four grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Susan Esther Sorensen

Susan Esther Sorensen, a former resident of Dolores and Cortez, died of ovarian cancer Sept. 5, 2001, in Grand Junction. She was 51.

A memorial service and private burial have already taken place in Grand Junction.

She was born March 15, 1950, in Minot, N.D., to Fred A. and Victoria (Kraft) Kreuger. She graduated from Garrison High School and the Wapheton State School of Science in Wapheton, N.D. In 1970 she married Raleigh Sorensen in Garrison, N.D.

She is survived by her husband, Raleigh; parents; two sons and daughters; two brothers; three sisters; and two grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Grand Junction of the Fighting Ovarian Cancer newsletter, P.O. Box 7948, Amarillo, Texas 79114.

 

Odell "Buddy" White

Odell "Buddy" White, of Erick, Okla., a resident of Mancos and Cortez for many years, died Sept. 3, 2001, in Apache Junction, Ariz., He was 78.

A visitation is set for today from 4 to 8 p.m. in the Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel. A funeral service will take place on Friday in the funeral chapel at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in the Mancos cemetery.

Mr. White was a retired trucker and served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Survivors include his daughters, Judy A. (Jon) Miller; sister, Ann Winters; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Donald Leonard Dorenkamp

Funeral services for Donald Leonard "Don" Dorenkamp of Lewis will be held Friday, Sept. 7, at 10 a.m. at the St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church. Father Tom Munson will be officiating. Interment will follow at the Lewis Cemetery. Military graveside services will be conducted by the Ute Mountain American Legion Post #75. Rosary services will be held Thursday, Sept. 6, at 7 p.m. at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church.

Don was born in Holly, Colo., on Nov. 4, 1936, to Joseph B. and Amelia M. (Boerner) Dorenkamp. He passed away on Sept. 4, 2001, at his home in Lewis, Colo. He was 64.

Among many accomplishments in Don's life, he attended Colorado State University in Ft. Collins. He was also a military veteran and on Jan. 17, 1961, he married his sweetheart Siglinde Baltz in Darmstadt, Germany. Don and Siglinde resided in Holly for a number of years where Don became the president of the Holly Fair Board, and was the director of the Holly Co-op. Don was a serious businessman, owning several businesses throughout his life. In 1985, he purchased the Dawson Lake store and ran it with his wife.

Don showed his daring side as a bull-rider, bronc-rider, steer-wrestler, and horse-racer. Don, too, was a fisherman. His family expressed how he was loved by all, and he, too, loved his family dearly. He was "Papa" to all of his grandchildren.

Surviving Don are his wife, Siglinde; his children, Cornelia Dorenkamp (Kenneth Cooney) of Boise, Idaho, Becky Susan Dorenkamp of Lewis, Colo., Patricia (Bob) Chadick of Oklahoma City, Okla., Donna Dorenkamp-Lyons of Cortez, Linda Dorenkamp of Albuquerque, N.M., and Frank Christian (Lynn Williams) Dorenkamp of Lewis, Colo.; his siblings, Cecilia (Jean) Sherwood of Lamar, Colo., Fred (Norma) Dorenkamp of Bristol, Colo., Agnes (James) Harper of Holly, and Norman (Jean) Dorenkamp of Holly; and a sister-in-law, Louise Dorenkamp of Bristol; numerous nieces and nephews, and eight grandchildren.

Preceding him in death were his parents; a brother, Bernard Dorenkamp, and a sister, Josephine Parker.

Memorial contributions can be made in Don's name with the Hospice of Montezuma.

Barbara Ann Saunders

Memorial services for Barbara Ann Saunders of Mancos will be held on Saturday, Sept. 8, at 1 p.m. at the Tomac residence located at 11898 Road G, McElmo Canyon.

Barbara was born on May 16, 1929, in Colorado Springs to Paul Franz and Nira Louene (Bolz) Kapelke. She passed away on Saturday, Aug. 25, 2001, at the Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos.

As a 30-year resident of Durango, Barbara worked as an optometrist’s assistant at Vision Care. She was also a member of the Hillcrest Ladies Golf Association where she showed her passion for golf. Barbara was also an avid bowler. The most important part of her life was her family. She dearly loved her grandchildren.

Surviving Barbara are her children, Michael P. Saunders of Cortez, David W. (Judy) Saunders of Black Canyon City, Ariz., Kathy A. (John) Tomac of McElmo; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild; her friend and former spouse, Bill G. Saunders of Jackson, Miss.; and a brother, Paul Kapelke of Arizona.

Memorial contributions can be made in Barbara's name with the First National Bank of Cortez. Service arrangements are being handled through the Ertel Funeral Home.

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 fob 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., andonald 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.