The Cortez Journal - Obituaries - Cortez, CO

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Cortez Journal Obituaries - Nov - Dec 2001
Cortez Journal

Obituaries
Jan - Feb  2004 


Juan D. J.D. Alcon
Hazel Kathleen Allen
Otto Ragnar Anderson
Grace Aspromonte
Edward Baltes
Mary Banks
Foster Milburn Barker
William Oscar Baysinger
Elsie Pauline Bernack
Nina Lee Bishop
Kenneth Bruce Brown
Eva Maud Chessmore
Ray Chavez
Alan Scot Cook
Reba Maxine Crawford
Mary Lucy DeLost
Otis Dearel Denton
Wilmer Willis Dicken
Martha May Wilson Faris
Frances Mildred Goff
Lowell H. "Larry" Grant
Emma Dolores Guillet
Charles William "Bill" Higman
Woodrow Ralph Hill
Harry George Hindall
Dr. Jay "Doc" Hinton
James E. Holston
Marilyn House
Esther Hougland

 


Annetta Nell Jeter
Harry Beletso Jones
Russell Jack Kuhn
Lena Mark Lansing
Lane Leavell 
Charles "Poncho" Ledford
Eliza Wadena Luthi
Oscar Lyles
Thelma Elaine Marshall
Kenneth "Wayne" McClain
William Ward Nowotny
W.H. "Tuffy" Overton
Marie Hodson Parker
Azalea Kim Pelt
Keith Rolland Pettigrew
Maxine Rasor
Donald Rose
Carmelita Sanchez
Edna Pearl Schriner
Roy Shelton Jr.
Maud Smith
Sarah Elizabeth Morgan Sutherland
Dollie Lucille Sutton
Thelma Iva Tate
Velma Louise (Dunlap) Thompson
Milton Kemper West
Delmer Lewis "Del" Williams
Van A. Willis
Ruth George Yazzie

Otis Dearel Denton

A funeral for longtime Cortez resident Otis Dearel Denton will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. The Rev. Lynn Evans of the Cortez First United Methodist Church will officiate.

A visitation has been scheduled for Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Ertel Chapel.

Otis was born to John William and Estus (Campbell) Denton July 31, 1922, in Lone Oak, Texas. He died Saturday, Feb. 21, 2004, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home in Cortez at the age of 81.

In 1945 Otis moved to the Cortez area. He married Edith Koehn Aug. 21, 1945, in Roswell, N.M. Otis was a member of the Cortez First United Methodist Church as well as a charter member and past exalted ruler of the Cortez Elks Lodge B.P.O.E. 1789. Otis owned and operated Denton Auto Supply. A favorite pastime of Otis’ was square dancing.

Otis is survived by his beloved wife, Edith Denton of Cortez; his son, Darrel Denton and wife, Mary Ellen, of Littleton, Colo.; his two granddaughters: Megan Petty and husband, Jason, of Provo, Utah, and Amy Denton of Lakewood, Colo. He leaves his siblings: Don Denton, Mary Lou Davis, and Robbie Jo Burnett.

He was preceded in death by a sister.

Memorial contributions can be made in the name of Otis Denton to the Scott McComb Scholarship Fund at Vectra Bank.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Additional service information is available in the obituary section at www.ertelfuneralhome.com .

Top of Page

Lowell H. "Larry" Grant

Lowell H. "Larry" Grant, a resident of Cortez, died in his home Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2004. He was 63.

Larry was born Jan. 12, 1941, to Lowell H. Grant Sr. and Della Mae (Adams) Grant.

He is survived by his wife, Carol Grant of Cortez; one daughter, Lee Ann Grant also of Cortez. He leaves one sister, Lorraine Peterson and 10 nieces and nephews.

No services are planned and cremation is to take place. A private interment will take place this spring.

Arrangements are being made through the Ertel Funeral Home.

  Top of Page

Donald Rose

Funeral services for Dove Creek resident Donald Rose will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Dove Creek First Southern Baptist Church. Interment will follow at the Dove Creek Cemetery. Pastor Mark Coffey will officiate.

Visitation has been set for Saturday from 11:30 a.m. until service time at the First Southern Baptist Church.

Donald was born Feb. 26, 1918, in Colorado Springs, to John William and Cora Belle (Moulder) Rose. He died Monday, Feb. 23, 2004, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home. Donald would have celebrated his 86th birthday Thursday.

On March 31, 1941, in Aztec, N.M., Donald married his sweetheart, Goldie Lorene McNeely. With this union four children were born. Donald worked as a mechanic, a career he enjoyed. Upon his retirement Donald and Goldie spent much of their free time camping and fishing.

Donald is survived by his beloved wife, Goldie Rose of Dove Creek; his children: Donna Sellard of San Jose, Calif.; Linda Perkins and husband, Larry, of Ignacio, Colo., and Diane Shutt and husband, Donald, of Cortez; as well as six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his son, Frank Rose, who passed away in 1960; his son-in-law, Lonnie Sellard; and three brothers and four sisters.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Additional service information is available in the obituary section at www.ertelfuneralhome.com.

  Top of Page

Martha May Wilson Faris

Martha May Wilson Faris, daughter of Edwin and Mildred Finley Wilson of Yellow Jacket, died in Mount Ayr, Iowa, on Friday, Feb. 20, after a lengthy illness.

Services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25, at the Mount Ayr First Christian Church.

Martha is survived by her husband, Lee Faris, her children Rodney and Elizabeth Faris, Jackie and Russell Stewart of Mount Ayr, Iowa; Jennifer and Shawn Byrd of Diagonal, Iowa; seven grandchildren; her sisters Florence and Elbert Randles of Cortez; Mary Ellen and Chuck McComb of Lewis; and her brother Elza and Peggy Wilson of Clifton. She was preceeded in death by her parents and infant son John Roger Faris.

Internment will be at Rose Hill Cemetary at Mount Ayr, Iowa. Cards can be sent to Lee Faris, 2429 190th St., Mount Ayr, Iowa 50854-9717. Top of Page

Russell Jack Kuhn

Weather permitting, funeral services for longtime Silverton resident, Russell Jack Kuhn will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 27, at St. Patricks Catholic Church in Silverton.

Russ was born March 22, 1921, in Bloomington, Ill., to William "Bill" and Martha (Stark) Kuhn. He died Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2004, at the Colorado State Veterans Center in Homelake, Colo. Russ was 82 years old.

A United States military veteran, Russ maintained his membership with the V.F.W. and the American Legion. In the 1940s Russ moved to Silverton where he worked as a miner. His job allowed him to travel all over the country. At one time, he worked as a mining consultant on an underground missile project in Texas. Outside of work, Russ enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, gardening singing and dancing. He will be remembered as a very warm, fun person who had a wonderful charisma.

Surviving Russ is his very dear friend, Catherine Lichliter. Memorial contributions can be made in Russ' memory to the Silverton American Legion. Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page

Ruth George Yazzie

Funeral services for longtime Cortez resident Ruth George Yazzie will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, at the Cortez Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Empire Street. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Ruth was born on April 28, 1928, in Lake Valley, N.M., the daughter of Jim and Charlotte Antonio (Johnson) Beyale. She died on Friday, Feb. 20, 2004, at the Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 75.

On Jan. 12, 1945, in Durango, Ruth married Frank Yazzie. She was a dedicated homemaker who belonged to both the Native American Church and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Ruth enjoyed sewing, cooking and crafts.

She is survived by her husband, Frank Yazzie of Cortez; her children, Esther Yazzie of Cortez, Susie Muller and husband, Sid of Belen, N.M., Colleen Pacheco and husband, Larry of Santo Domingo, N.M., Martin Yazzie of Cortez, Mary Ann Yazzie of Globe, Ariz., Charlotte Corrales and husband, Joseph of Farmington, N.M.; and her adopted daughter, Janet Baird and husband, Tom of Baltimore, Mary. She leaves nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; as well as her brother and sister, Jerry Johnson of Aneth, Utah, and Helen Etcitty of Lake Valley, N.M. Preceding her in death are one grandchild as well as Clarence George, Beulah Padilla, and Rita Benally.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page

Nina Lee Bishop

Funeral services for longtime Cortez resident Nina Lee Bishop will be at 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 23, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Empire Street. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

A visitation has been scheduled for 12:30 in the Relief Society Room at the LDS Church before the service.

Nina was born Feb. 9, 1930, in Pueblo, Colo., the daughter of Jess B. and Opal (Holybee) Cook. She died Thursday, Feb. 19, 2004, at the Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 74.

On April 2, 1947, Nina married Willard Bishop. Nina was a dedicated homemaker who loved sewing, canning vegetables, crocheting, and embroidering. She was also a wonderful cook and gardener.

Nina is survived by her husband, Willard Bishop of Cortez; her children, Linda Burns and husband, Bob of Durango, Bruce Bishop and wife, Vonita of Etna, Calif., Barbara Mellott and husband, Jim of Kenai, Alaska, Ronda Lancaster and husband, Sam of Pleasant View, and Kelly Candelaria and husband, Jim of Cortez. She leaves 14 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and has two new great-grandchildren on the way. Her brother and sisters, Bill Cook and wife, Lois of Craig, Colo., Iona Stanley of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Mabel Jeanne Hall of Pueblo, Colo.; as well as her sister-in-laws, Nelta Wilson of Denver, and Pearl Bishop of Dolores survive Nina. Preceding her in death are a grandson, Derek Lancaster; and a sister and a brother, Vera Shaw and Jess Cook, Jr.

Memorial contributions can be made in Nina’s memory to the Derek Lancaster memorial fund at either Citizens State Bank in Cortez or at First National Bank in Durango. Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page   

Mary Lucy DeLost

Funeral services for longtime Cortez resident Mary Lucy DeLost will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Lucy was born July 31, 1917, in Quitman, Ark., to Will and Amanda Maude (Patchell) Daves. She died Thursday, Feb. 19, 2004, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home at the age of 86.

Her children, Peggy Kirkpatrick and husband, Dick of Cortez, Shirley Dennison and husband, Darrell of Cortez, and Moss Atkinson and wife, Billie of Dolores survive Lucy. She leaves 11 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren; as well as her sister, Billie Jean Sparks and husband, John of Mesa, Ariz.; and two sister-in-laws, Mary Lois Daves and Vena Kelso both of Cortez.

Preceding her in death are her husband, Victor DeLost, and Doug DeLost.

Memorial contributions can be made in Lucy’s memory to Hospice of Montezuma at P.O. Box 740, Cortez, CO 81321.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Russell Jack Kuhn

Services for Cortez resident Russell Jack Kuhn are pending with the Ertel Funeral Home.

Russ was born on March 22, 1921, in Bloomington, Ill., to William "Bill" and Martha (Stark) Kuhn. He died Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2004, at the Colorado State Veterans Center in Homelake, Colo. Russ was 82 years old.

For further service information, contact the Ertel Funeral Home at 565-3468 or check online at www.ertelfuneralhome.com   Top of Page   

Lane Leavell  

Funeral services for lifelong Cortez resident Lane Leavell will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21, at the Lifeway Baptist Church. Pastor Jimmy Kennedy will officiate. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Lane was born the son of Kay Leavell and Darlene (Sparks) Leavell on Feb. 8, 1971, in Cortez. He died at Southwest Memorial Hospital on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2004. He was 33.

On July 10, 1993, Lane married Amy Sue Risenhoover in Dolores. A heavy equipment mechanic for Nielsons/Skanska, Lane loved his job. He was an active and devoted member of the Lifeway Baptist Church, and he was a member of the Dolores Fire Department. In his free time, Lane enjoyed building model trucks. He was proud that he was the one trusted annually to haul the Galloping Goose train to Durango to put it on the tracks. Mostly, though, Lane loved his family and cherished those relationships.

Surviving Lane are his beloved wife of 10 years, Amy Leavell of Dolores; his children, Garrett Leavell and Madelynn Leavell both of Dolores; his parents, Kay Leavell and Darlene Leavell of Dolores; his parents-in-law, Leon and Saralynn Risenhoover also of Dolores; and his grandmother, Jean Sparks of Henderson, Nev. Three sisters, Penny Thompson and husband, Gene of Mancos, Lisa Balderrama and husband, Rudy of Cortez, and Lori Willbanks and husband, Keenan of Dolores also survive Lane.

Preceding Lane in death was an infant daughter, Sarah Leavell; brother, Lynn Leavell; grandmother, Bernice Leavell; and grandfather, Paddy Leavell.

Memorial contributions can be made in memory of Lane Leavell with either branch of the Dolores State Bank.

Services will be under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Additional service information is available at http://obit.ertelfuneralhome.com   Top of Page   

Kenneth "Wayne" McClain

Kenneth "Wayne" McClain, a resident of Grand Junction and former longtime resident of the west end of Montrose County, died Feb. 16, 2004, at his residence, after a lengthy illness with multiple mylenoma. He was 60.

A funeral will take place at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 23, in the House of Prayer Church, 198 Sunlight Drive, Grand Junction. Pastor William Harvey will officiate. Military rites will be conducted by the Beye Lotz VFW Post No. 1247 of Grand Junction at the Veterans’ Cemetery of Grand Junction, where the interment will take place.

A visitation is planned for 10 a.m. Monday until the time of the service at the church.

Mr. McClain was born to Kenneth Samuel and Onice May Miers McClain on June 22, 1943, in Athens, Texas. The family moved to Uravan, Colo., early in Mr. McClain’s life. He attended grade school there, graduated from Nucla High School and entered the U.S. Army. He served as a water purification specialist in Vietnam during the war. Later in his life, he was diagnosed with "Agent Orange Syndrome" from the exposure of the defoliant used during the war. During the long years of his illness, Mr. McClain often stated he would serve his country again, understanding the consequences.

Mr. McClain married his lifelong companion Glenna Church on Oct. 11, 1964. They were blessed with three sons.

Mr. McClain was formerly employed in Uravan, Colo., with Union Carbide, working in the mill during the uranium mining era. After the mining industry failed, he and his family moved to Nucla, Colo. He worked as a long-haul truck driver for some time, and then in 1996 he moved to Grand Junction to be closer to his family.

Mr. McClain was a very strong Christian and was a member of the House of Prayer.

He was a lifetime member of the VFW Post No. 75 of Nucla and was a former member of the Montrose Sheriff’s Posse, West End. Mr. McClain enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping and four-wheeling.

Kenneth Wayne McClain is survived by his beloved wife of more than 39 years, Glenna, of Grand Junction; three sons, Rick (Lori) McClain, Daryl (Tammy) McClain and Mark McClain, all of Grand Junction; his parents, Kenneth and Onice McClain of Mabank, Texas; two brothers, Jody (Kathy) McClain of Laporte, Texas, and John McClain of Grand Junction; a grandson, Jacob McClain of Grand Junction and numerous nephews, nieces and many friends.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado, P.O. Box 60307, Grand Junction, CO 81506.

Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale & Gerken is serving the family. Top of Page   

Ray Chavez

Ray Chavez died Feb. 6, 2004, at San Juan Regional Medical Center in Farmington at the age of 72.

Services were held Feb. 11 and 12 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Dulce, N.M. Cremation was provided by the Alternative Society of Farmington.

Ray was born April 4, 1931, in Juanita, Colo.

He is survived by his wife, Juanita, of Lumberton, N.M.; sons: Paul Chavez and wife, Kristie, of Bloomfield, N.M.; Dennis Chavez; Ray Chavez; Porfirio Chavez, Danny Valdez and wife, Lucy, of Santa Fe., N.M., and Ted Valdez of Lumberton; daughters: Diana Chavez; Dixie Chavez, and Velda Chavez, all of Kalso, Wash.; Mary Jane Maestas of Lumberton; grandson, Moses Castleberry; brothers: Frank Chavez and wife, Shirley, of Cortez; Fred Chavez and wife, Maggie, of Pagosa Springs; Roy Valdez and wife, Dora, of Bloomfield; and Claude Chavez and wife, Maria, of Ralston, Neb. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Ray was preceded in death by one brother, Mitchel; two sons: Tony Chavez and Ray Chavez; and one sister, Carmelita Chavez. Top of Page   

Charles William "Bill" Higman

Memorial services for lifelong Cortez resident Charles William "Bill" Higman will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20, at the Cortez Church of Christ. Hunt Zumwalt will officiate. Inurnment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. The Ute Mountain American Legion Post 75 will conduct military graveside services.

Bill was born at Beulah, Colo., Nov. 26, 1927, the son of Charlie and Susie Marie (Englehart) Higman. He died Monday, Feb. 16, 2004, at the Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 76.

On Jan. 3, 1953, in Aztec, N.M., Bill married Carol Blythe Miller. Together the couple shared 48 years of marriage before Carol's death in 2001.

A World War II Army veteran, Bill remained a member of the Ute Mountain American Legion Post 75. He was also part of the United Search and Rescue as well as the Lake Vista Grange Post Master. Bill enjoyed fishing, hunting and camping in the mountains. Snowmobiling and woodworking were also favorite pastimes.

Surviving Bill are his son and daughter, Michael W. Higman and wife, Cathy, of Dolores, and Susan M. Porter and husband, Frank, of Denver, Colo.; his grandchildren: Brandi J. Owens of Bloomfield, N.M.; Shane Higman of Dolores; Kristen Higman of Dolores; Emily Porter of Denver, and William Porter of Denver; as well as his two sisters: Harriet Shull of Cortez, and Joanne McComb and husband, Farrell, of Dolores.

Preceding him in death was his wife, Carol Higman; and his daughter, Paula Diane Higman.

Memorial contributions may be made in Bill's name to the Cortez Senior Center.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page   

Milton Kemper West

Milton Kemper West, of King City, Calif., died Jan. 30, 2004, at Mee Memorial Hospital long-term care facility after a lengthy illness. He was 79.

Memorial services were held Feb. 7.

Mr. West was born Sept. 16, 1924, in Shields, Kan., to Ester and Moses West, and moved to Cortez in 1938 where he met the love of his life, Edith Marian Powell. Kemper and Marian were married in 1944 and lovingly raised three daughters.

Kemper was a member of the Cortez volunteer fire department and the National Ski Patrol.

The family moved to King City in 1963 where Kemper worked as a purchasing agent for Union Carbide until retirement in 1986.

An avid outdoorsman, his hobbies included skiing, fishing, cycling, golfing, tennis, deer and elk hunting, boating and water skiing.

Kemper will be remembered as a committed family man whose life was guided by love and faith.

He is survived by his wife, Marian West of King City; daughters: Carol Miyata and husband, Herbert, of Aiea, Hawaii; Linda Garcia and husband, Pedro, of Aiea; sister, Lois Thompson and husband Grady, of Sun City, Ariz.; brother M.L. West and wife, Twila, of Sun City; six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by four sisters.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Top of Page   

Otto Ragnar Anderson

Otto Ragnar Anderson, a longtime resident of Dove Creek, died Friday, Feb. 13, 2004.

Arrangements are pending with Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale & Gerken. Phone 564-0667 for further information.   Top of Page    

Wilmer Willis Dicken

Wilmer Willis Dicken, resident of Egnar and Dove Creek, died at his home Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2004, at the age of 81.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. today, Feb. 14, at the Dove Creek Elementary School. Burial took place Feb. 4 on the family farm.

Wilmer was born Aug. 8, 1922, in Homestead, Okla., to John Paul and Clara Bill Dicken. He completed grade school in Elm Grove and began high school in rural Woodward County. Wilmer’s family moved to Southwest Colorado in 1937 and he completed high school in Dove Creek.

Wilmer served in the U.S. Army as a surgical technician aboard troop transport ships and in the Aleutian Islands during World War II.

He married his sweetheart, Lorena Murray, Sept. 18, 1946. Wilmer and Lorena were charter members of the Dove Creek Seventh Day Adventist Church.

Wilmer is survived by his wife; sons: Terry Dicken and wife, Janice; Jordan Dicken; daughter-in-law, Dianne and husband, Tom; daughter, Del Jean and husband, Norman; brothers: Cleve Dicken and wife, Flossie; Max Dicken and wife, Ada; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren, and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Wayne, and a son, Darrell.   Top of Page    

Marilyn House

Funeral services for Towaoc resident Marilyn House will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 16, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Boyd Lopez will officiate.

A visitation has been scheduled for Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Ertel Chapel.

Marilyn was born May 9, 1949, in Cortez to MacDougal Coyote and Betty A. Harrison. She died Thursday, Feb. 12, 2004, at the Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 54.

Marilyn was a dedicated homemaker who loved being with her children and grandchildren. She is survived by her husband, Darwin House of Towaoc; her daughter, Marilynn S. House, also of Towaoc; stepdaughter, Sandy House of Towaoc; her grandchildren: Sierra, Leighton and Steven Pensonau; Donovan House and Trent Ute; as well as her brothers and sisters: Mac Coyote; Montgomery Coyote; Jeanette Coyote and husband, Marvin; and Jonathan Dinae, all of Cortez; Mark Coyote of San Jose, Calif., and Jolanda Jacket of Cortez.

Preceding her in death were her son and daughter, William Pensoneau and Elizabeth Pensoneau.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.   Top of Page    

Lena Mark Lansing

Funeral services for lifelong Aneth, Utah, resident Lena Mark Lansing will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Lena was born Oct. 24, 1936, in Bluff, Utah. She died Friday, Feb. 13, 2004, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home at the age of 67.

Surviving Lena are her children: Gracie Jim and husband, Marvin, of Cortez; Pearlene Arizona and husband, Billy Sr., of Tuba City, Ariz.; Laura Whiterock and husband, Dennis; Sherry Peraves and husband, Roy, all of Cortez; Raylen Lansing and wife, Alondra, of Aneth; Rex Lansing and wife, Lucy, of Cortez, and Rosslyn Lansing and wife, Regina, of Aneth. She leaves 29 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. Lena was an only child, but had numerous stepbrothers and sisters, as well as nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Thomas Handy Lansing; her daughter, Loretta Lansing; and a grandson, Thomas Arizona.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.   Top of Page    

Foster Milburn Barker

Foster Milburn Barker, 87, of Grand Junction, died at his home Sunday, Feb. 8, 2004.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 13, at Martin Mortuary Chapel. Visitation will be from 11:30 to 12:30 prior to services. Burial will follow at Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Foster was born Feb. 1, 1917, to Walter and Katherine Foster Barker at Kenta, Okla. On March 30, 1939, he married Phyllis Wise at Glenwood Springs, Colo. Foster and Phyllis lived in Dolores from 1952 to 1989 when they moved to Grand Junction.

Foster worked for the Colorado Game and Fish Wildlife Conservation for 30 years. He also was a saddle maker, leather craftsman, gunsmith and carpenter. Foster was a member of the Montezuma County Sheriff's Posse and the NRA. He also enjoyed roping.

Surviving Foster are his wife, Phyllis of Grand Junction; sons: Larry Barker of Lubbock, Texas; Jim Barker of Grand Junction; daughter, Carolyn Barker of Biloxi, Miss.; and two grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by one brother, Robert Barker.   Top of Page    

James E. Holston

Funeral services for lifelong Mancos resident James Edmond Holston will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17, at the Mancos First Baptist Church. Interment will follow at the Cedar Grove Cemetery. John Derrick Halls Post 5231 will conduct military graveside services. There will be a dinner held at the family home following interment.

A visitation has been scheduled for Monday, Feb. 16, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel from 6 to 8 p.m.

James Edmond Holston was born Dec. 7, 1921, in Mancos to Robert and Mattie Samarimus (Sheek) Holston. He died Feb. 11, 2004, in Ontario, Calif., at the age of 82.

Joining the U.S. Marine Corps in 1941, James was stationed at Bremerton, Wash., and served in the Pacific Islands during World War II. Jim married his childhood sweetheart, Ellen Elizabeth Garlinghouse, in Shelton, Wash., March 31, 1945. To this joyous union five children were born.

Surviving Jim are his children: Karl Floyd and wife, Sue Holston, of Hugoton, Kans.; Ellen Marie "Queenie" Barz of Mancos; Virginia Louise "Ginny" Burris and husband, Johnnie, of Cortez; Tammie Kay Taylor and husband, Paul, of Anchorage, Alaska; seven grandchildren: Jim Uptain and wife, Amy; Todd Holston and wife, Jodi; Rick Uptain and wife, Kim; Tanya Shedd and husband, William; Bobbie and husband, Dusty Uptain; Christina Sterlin Zwicker; Charity McCright; 15 great-grandchildren: Ian Baker, Jade Holston-Green, Austin McCright, Wyatt Uptain, Donald Dufer, Garrett Uptain, Destani Zwicker, Cheyenne Zwicker, Keaghan Shedd, Laura Holston, Jamie Zwicker, Tyler Uptain, Jace Holston, Katie Uptain, Alex Shedd; and special friend, Immogene Spruell; as well as numerous nephews, nieces and a host of friends.

Preceding James in death was his beloved wife, Ellen Elizabeth Holston; his infant son, Eddie Holston; two brothers and two sisters.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page

Esther Hougland

Esther Hougland, a longtime resident of Pleasant View and Cortez, died Feb. 2, 2004, at her son’s home in New Mexico. She was 94.

Esther was born in Kansas March 15, 1909. She married Charles Hougland Oct. 16, 1927. They were married for 61 years at the time of Charles’ death in 1989. After Charles’ death, Esther lived with her son, Clarence, and his family in New Mexico.

Esther was a homemaker and a wonderful cook all of her life until health problems restricted her activities. Along with her husband, she worked many years for the San Juan National Forest as a fire lookout at the Glad and Benchmark lookouts northwest of Pleasant View.

Esther enjoyed watching and rooting for the Denver Broncos and the Duke Blue Devils. She was too ill to know that her favorite player, John Elway, was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame before her death.

Esther is survived by her four children: Nadine Crawley of Altoona, Iowa; Gerald and Lyna Hougland of Cortez; Carol Hale of St. Mary’s, Mo.; and Clarence and Janet Hougland of Espańola, N.M.; 13 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Clara Welsh and husband, Ray, of Weskan, Kan.; five step-grandchildren; 20 step-great-grandchildren, and three step-great-great-grandchildren, including 3-year-old Justina, who was Esther’s playmate.   Top of Page    

Delmer Lewis "Del" Williams

Memorial services for longtime Cortez resident Delmer Lewis "Del" Williams will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 13, at the Ute Mountain American Legion Post 75.

Del was born Oct. 8, 1933, in Bozeman, Mont., to Orvis and Elberta (Gibson) Williams. He died Sunday, Feb. 8, 2004, at his home in Cortez at the age of 70.

Del served in the Coast Guard, and was a member of the American Legion, the NRA and was a member of the B.P.O.E. for 30 years. For many years he kept up the Legion campground above Dolores. Del loved to fish, hunt and enjoyed woodworking.

Del is survived by his wife, Dody Williams; his son, Danny Williams and wife, Terrie, all of Cortez; stepson, Larry Michael Jones and wife, Debbie, of Arizona; and daughter-in-law, Wilma Williams of Cortez; grandchildren: Ryan, Michael and Stephanie Williams, all of Cortez; Clinton Michael Jones and Kristy Jones and husband, Shon, all of Arizona; as well as two great-granddaughters, Cortney and Hadley Jones; and his brother and sister, Larry Williams and wife, Shirley, of Helena, Mont., and Linda Brunner and husband, Bill, of Bellgrade, Mont. He also leaves several cousins and nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death was his son, Michael Louis Williams in 1999.

Memorial contributions can be made in Del’s name at Citizens Sate Bank.

Arrangements are being made through the Ertel Funeral Home.   Top of Page    

Charles Richard "Poncho" Ledford

Graveside services for lifelong Cortez resident Charles Richard "Poncho" Ledford will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, at the Summit Ridge Cemetery.

A visitation has been scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Charles was born Dec. 7, 1942, in Dolores, to James E. and Verna M. (Hampton) Ledford. He died Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2004, in Prescott, Ariz., at the age of 61.

On July 5, 1986, in Pocatello, Idaho, Charles married Lori Jo Carlquist. He was an active man who worked as a long haul truck driver, a job he enjoyed. When he wasn’t working he enjoyed racing snowmobiles, motorcycles and playing on his tractor. Charles deeply loved his family, but most of all he adored his grandchildren.

His wife, Lori Ledford of Cortez; his children: Brenda Kay Wright and husband, David, of Arriola; Stacy Denise Cumpton and husband, Mark, of Lewellen, Neb.; James Shane Ledford and Christopher Ledford, both of Cortez; as well as his beloved three grandchildren, survive Charles. He leaves two sisters: Verna Ruth Griffin of Farmington, N.M., and Viola Mae Murdock of Cortez; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Preceding him in death was a brother, James Ledford.

Memorial contributions can be made in Charles name at the First National Bank of Cortez.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.   Top of Page    

Azalea Kim Pelt

Graveside services for lifelong Bluff, Utah, resident Azalea Kim Pelt were held Wednesday, Feb. 4, at the Horse Canyon Family Cemetery near Bluff. Tully Vijil officiated.

Azalea was born May 7, 1970, in Monument Valley, Utah, to Daniel and Helen (Samson) Vijil. She died Saturday, Jan. 31, 2004, in Dolores County at the age of 33.

On Oct. 13, 1996, at Horse Canyon Bluff, Azalea married Jason Pelt. She was also a member of the Native American Church.

Surviving Azalea are her parents, Daniel Vijil and Helen Vijil; her husband, Jason Pelt; her children: Dalton and Lakota Black; as well as her brothers: Frederick Vijil, Orlando Vijil and Rodrick Montanyo, all of Bluff, Utah.

Services were under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.     Top of Page       

Velma Louise (Dunlap) Thompson

Velma Louise (Dunlap) Thompson, 94, died of natural causes Monday, Feb. 2, 2004, at Mercy Medical Center in Durango.

A funeral will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at Hood Mortuary Chapel. Pastor Larry Osborne of Durango Christian Church will officiate. Burial will occur at Greenmount Cemetery in Durango.

Ms. Thompson was born Jan. 9, 1910, in Dolores to William Wesley and Leota Dunlap. She attended Dolores and Durango schools and moved to Durango in 1946.

Ms. Thompson worked as a secretary for the highway department when it was located across the street from McDonald's. She enjoyed gardening and tending to her yard. She also loved to travel, especially to her daughter's home during the winter, as they lived in various places across the United States. She was a past member of Epsilon Sigma Alpha chapter of Durango.

She is survived by her daughter, Sheila Hegglund and husband, Neil, of North Las Vegas, Nev.; grandson, Wesley Hegglund of Houston, Texas; granddaughters: Heidi Hegglund of Durango, and Sharon Hegglund of North Las Vegas; sisters: Helen Dunlap and Margaret "Peggy" Akin, both of Durango; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by two brothers.

Memorial contributions may be made in the name of Velma Thompson to Friends of the Colorado Talking Book Library, 180 Sheridan Blvd., Denver, CO 80226. Top of Page   

Mary Banks

Mary Banks, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, went to join her savior peacefully and with dignity Friday, Jan. 30, 2004, at San Juan Regional Hospital with her children and grandchildren at her bedside.

A graveside service will be held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, in the Cortez Cemetery.

Mary was born in Olney, Texas, and moved to Cortez at the age of 6. A longtime resident of Cortez, Mary worked in the district attorney's office during the terms of Wade Dillon and George Buck. She relocated to Farmington in 1978.

In December 1999, Mary retired from her position as city clerk to spend more time with her family.

Mary is survived by her children: Marti and Billy Spitzer of Dove Creek; Chuck and Kathy Banks of Farmington; Buddy and Kati Banks of Dove Creek; grandchildren: Rikki and Vernon Knuckles; Brooke and Dustin Ernst; Casey and Courtney Spitzer; T.J. Spitzer; Brennan, Braiden, Kori, Kyli and Amanda Banks; great-grandchildren: Tyler and MaKenzi Knuckles; and Hunter Ernst.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; grandson, Devon, and beloved sister-in-law and friend, Beverly Banks.

She will be sorely missed.

The family requests memorial contributions to the donor's favorite charity.  Top of Page   

Maxine Rasor

Maxine Rasor, a longtime resident of Cortez, died Sunday, Feb. 1, 2003, at the McKenna Memorial Hospital in New Braunfels, Texas. She was 91. It was Ms. Rasor’s wishes to be cremated. No local services are planned. She is survived by one son, Carl R. Rasor and wife, Patricia, of New Braunfels; one sister, Ernestine McCarty of Tulsa, Okla.; and one sister-in-law, Grace Clifton of Tulsa. The family has requested memorial contributions be given to a Shriner hospital of the donor’s choice or to the Cortez Public Library. Funeral arrangements were handled by the Zoeller Funeral Home in New Braunfels. Top of Page   

Carmelita Sanchez

Carmelita Sanchez, a resident of Cortez, died Jan. 31, 2004, in the Vista Mesa Assisted Living Center. She was 83.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, in the St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Cortez. Fr. Derrek Scott will be the celebrant. Interment will follow the services in the Summit Ridge Cemetery. A Rosary will be said at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, in the church.

Mrs. Sanchez was born to Telesfor and Petrita Salazar Herrera May 3, 1920, in El Vado, N.M. She married Octaviano Sanchez March 11, 1939, in Cuba, N.M. They were blessed with three children. Mr. and Mrs. Sanchez were residents of Dolores since 1941. Mr. Sanchez preceded her in death in April 1982.

Mrs. Sanchez was formerly employed as a cook at various locations in Dolores and Cortez restaurants. She also was employed as a cook with the Dolores School District.

Mrs. Sanchez loved to cook. She also enjoyed camping, fishing, visiting with her family and friends. She loved her grandchildren, gardening, roasting chilies, and she loved her little dog, "Baby." Mrs. Sanchez and her companion, Smith M. Martinez, enjoyed many years together. He preceded her in death in 2001.

Carmelita Adonaiza Sanchez is survived by her son, Octaviano T. Sanchez and wife, Cynthia, of Yellow Jacket; two daughters: Loretta M. Sanchez, and Laura Sanchez and husband, Ronnie Jaquez, all of Bloomfield, N.M.; a sister, Louisa Valdez of Denver; nine grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren, and numerous nephews and nieces.

She was also preceded in death by a sister, Abenilde Cardenas.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 701 Camino del Rio, Durango, CO 81301.

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

  Top of Page

Maud Smith

Graveside services for longtime Cortez resident Maud Smith will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Cortez Cemetery. The Rev. Ora Dailey will officiate.

Maud was born May 15, 1913, in Loco, Okla., to Charlie Robert and Myrtle Jane (Humphreys) Smith. She died Saturday, Jan. 31, 2004, at the Valley Inn Nursing Home at the age of 90.

Maud lived with her nephew, Butch, and his wife, Carol, in Cortez for a number of years. She loved to visit with people, and was known for her great sense of humor. Maud loved her family very much.

Surviving Maud are her nieces and nephews: Mick Wilson of Arizona; Joan Peterson and husband, Eric, of Virginia; Butch Wilson and wife, Carol, of Cortez; Peggy Culp and husband, Oscar, of Arizona; Donna Hamilton and husband, Larry; Winnilou Moore; Bobby Smith, and Tommy Smith and wife, Katie, all of Texas; two additional nieces in Arizona; three nieces in Florida, and one nephew in California.

Preceding Maud in death are siblings: Hayden Smith, Jesse Smith, Ara Wilson, Marie Marston and an infant brother.

Memorial contributions can be made in Maud's name with the Dolores State Bank to benefit the Cortez Animal Shelter.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

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Sarah Elizabeth Morgan Sutherland

Funeral services for Sarah Elizabeth Morgan Sutherland will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Arriola Cemetery.

Sarah, the daughter of Riley Joe Morgan and Allie Emma (Cuttingham) Morgan, was born at Cushing, Okla., Aug. 10, 1932. She died at her home in Cortez Sunday, Feb. 1, 2004. Sarah was 71.

Sarah attended Ripley High School where she played basketball. On Sept. 20, 1950, in Aztec, N.M., she married John Davis Sutherland. Sarah worked for Southwest Memorial Hospital for 25 years, Cortez Livestock Auction for 20 years and Ute Communications. She was also a member of the Order of The Eastern Star and the Southwestern Cowbelles. Family outings and being with friends were very special to Sarah.

Her children, Johniece Dunnam of Cortez; Ella Poff of Lewis; Roger Sutherland and wife, Cindy Hampton, of Cortez; Teresa Williams and husband, Ernie, of Dove Creek; her 18 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren; as well as her sister-in-law, Shirley Morgan, survive Sarah.

Preceding her in death was her husband, John Davis Sutherland; and one brother and one sister.

Memorial contributions can be made in Sarah's name at Dolores State Bank.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

  Top of Page

Van A. Willis

Funeral services for longtime Mancos resident Van A. Willis will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, at the Mancos Church of Jesus Christ Of Latter-day Saints. Interment will follow at Webber Cemetery. Bishop Melvyn Horrocks will officiate.

A visitation is scheduled Saturday from noon to 2 p.m. at the LDS church, 201 Montezuma in Mancos.

Van was born Aug. 19, 1916, in Snowflake, Ariz., to Joseph Stratton and Wilmirth (Flake) Willis. He died Monday, Feb. 2, 2004, at his home in Mancos at the age of 87.

Van was the grandson of the founders of Snowflake. He graduated from Snowflake Academy High School and Army Officer's Candidate School. He worked hard from an early age until the end of his life, ranching, selling real estate and operating retail grocery and hardware businesses. On Sept. 25, 1935, Van married his high school sweetheart, Selma Oveson, in the Mesa Temple.

In 1942, Van joined the Army Ordnance Corps and defended his country during World War II. He was honorably discharged in 1952 ranking as a 1st Lieutenant and came to Bayfield in 1947 to purchase and operate a ranch. Van and his family owned and operated The Boys Market in Mancos from 1959 until 1986. He served, as the Mancos mayor for 12 years, held a post command in the VFW and American Legion, was chamber of commerce and Mancos Community Development president. Van always provided a special floral touch to the visitor's center and to his church from his large and beautiful gardens. He will always be remembered as a generous husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and community contributor.

Surviving Van are his children: Linda Willis Enochs and husband, Allen, of Mancos, and Dean Willis and wife, Robin, of Golden, Colo. He leaves three grandchildren: Phillip, Evan and Ginny; two great-grandsons: Gage and Jayden; and his sister, Margaret Willis Hamblin of Snowflake.

Preceding him in was his beloved wife, "darlin'" Selma; five sisters and one brother.

Memorial contributions can be made in Van's name to Hospice of Montezuma.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Top of Page

Woodrow Ralph Hill

Memorial services for longtime Cortez resident Woodrow Ralph Hill will be held at 2 p.m. today, Feb. 3, 2004, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. The Rev. Lynn Evans will officiate.

Woody was born May 8, 1920, in Wimberly, Texas, to Leander Theodrick and Virginia Carolina (Adare) Hill. He died Thursday, Jan. 29, 2004, at the Four Corners Health Care Center in Durango at the age of 83.

In the South Pacific during World War II, Woody served in the Air Force. On Sept. 29, 1942, in Long Island, N.Y., he married Venita Brown. With this union three children were born: Lynn, Dave and Linda. Upon becoming a grandfather, Woody found a favorite pastime was to tease his grandchildren and love them dearly. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling and basically anything in the outdoors. He was a longtime member of the American Legion and was once a member of the Elks.

Surviving Woody are his wife, Venita Hill of Cortez; his children: Lynn Hill and wife, Sally, of Flagstaff, Ariz., Dave Hill and wife, Patsy, of Cortez, and Linda Humphreys and husband, Frank, of Cortez. He leaves five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and his two sisters: Ruth Sell of Albuquerque, N.M., and Helen Vance of Naturita. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive Woody.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Maxine Rasor, a longtime resident of Cortez, died Sunday, Feb. 1, 2003, at the McKenna Memorial Hospital in New Braunfels, Texas. She was 91.

It was Ms. Rasor's wishes to be cremated. No local services are planned.

She is survived by one son, Carl R. Rasor and wife, Patricia, of New Braunfels; one sister, Ernestine McCarty of Tulsa, Okla.; and one sister-in-law, Grace Clifton of Tulsa.

The family has requested memorial contributions be given to a Shriner hospital of the donor's choice or to the Cortez Public Library.

Funeral arrangements were handled by the Zoeller Funeral Home in New Braunfels. Top of Page


Eva Maud Chessmore

Eva Maud Chessmore, a longtime resident of Stillwater, Okla., died Thursday, Jan. 22, 2004, at Stillwater Medical Center. She was 84.

Memorial services were held Monday, Jan. 26, at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church.

Eva was born in Halstead, Essex, England, Feb. 13, 1919, to Arthur and Clara Wiffen. During World War II, she worked as a Jacquard weaver making silk parachutes seven days a week with the British Army Ambulance Mobile Unit.

Eva met her husband, Charles, Feb. 19, 1944, and married him Aug. 19, 1944. In 1946, she left England and was processed through Ellis Island in New York. She arrived at Perry, Okla., to meet her new family. At that time, she became a member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Stillwater.

Eva and her husband established their residence in Keystone, Okla.., where he was a teacher. After Charles was recalled into the Air Force in 1947, they completed a 21-year military career. Eva was an active member in the Officer's Wives' Club from 1947 until 1960 when Charles retired. Then she moved to Stillwater where she served 30 years of volunteer service at St. Andrew's Thrift Shop.

Eva was an avid reader and enjoyed interior decorating, practicing constantly at her home where she lived for 43 years. She loved to entertain and never met a stranger; she was very outgoing. Everyone was welcome in her home for a nice cup of tea.

Eva was preceded in death by her parents, and her brother, George Arthur David Wiffen.

She is survived by her husband; two daughters; Georgina Kraus and husband, Rudy, of Cortez; and Saxon Vandagriff of Edmond, Okla.; three granddaughters: Katya Archambo and husband, Brian, of Tulsa, Okla.; Sibylla Thompson and husband, Todd, of Spokane, Wash.; Tiffeny Vandagriff of Edmond; and one great-grandson, Keena Thompson of Spokane.

Condolences may be e-mailed to the family here . Top of Page

Annetta Nell Jeter

Memorial services for longtime Cortez resident Annetta Nell Jeter will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Annetta was born May 6, 1922, in Ridgway, Colo., to George Henry and Nellie Mae (Davis) Williams. She passed away Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2004, at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction, Colo., at the age of 81.

For many years, Annetta operated restaurants in the Montrose area. On Dec. 3, 1987, in Durango, Annetta married Dale Jay Jeter. She became a homemaker who sewed for many people, and taught others how to use Artex Paint. One of Annetta's favorite pastimes was dancing. She was also the president of the Golden Age 55+ Club.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Dale Jeter of Cortez; her son and two daughters: Glenn David Bell of Stockton, Calif.; Doris Mae Bowen of Montrose, and Olivia Kinsey and husband, Tom, of Longview, Wash. She leaves six grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; as well as her nephew, Dean Lyon of Winsor, Calif.

Preceding her in death are her parents; her sister Allyne Loru Lyon; and her two half-brothers, Glenn Harrison and Dean Harrison.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page

Willliam Oscar Baysinger

William Oscar Baysinger was born Aug. 27, 1926, in Farmington, N.M., to William Otis and Vesta Marie (Cartwright) Baysinger. He passed away Friday, Jan. 23, 2004, at the Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 77.

Bill was an Army veteran who defended his country during World War II. He loved to read all types of books and enjoyed watching professional wrestling.

Surviving Bill are his children: Christy Moore and husband, Michael, and Dena Guttridge and husband, Ed, all of Cortez; six grandchildren: Andre Lobato; Janae Pearce and husband, Tim; Dane Guttridge; Koltan Guttridge; Koby Guttridge, and Daylan Guttridge. He leaves six great-grandchildren: Austin Lobato and Alecsis Lobato; Kaiden Thomas; Adam Pearce, Timothy Pearce, and Branden Pearce. His brother and sister: Bob Baysinger and wife, Patty, of Farmington, and Margaret Barnes and husband, Sandy, of Bloomfield, N.M., also survive Bill.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled through the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page

Kenneth Bruce Brown

Memorial services for lifelong Mancos resident, Kenneth Bruce Brown will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, 2004 at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Kenny was born on February 13, 1927 in Mancos to Rudolph Fredrick and Retha May (Ellis) Brown. He passed away on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2004 at the Desert Samaritan Medical Center in Mesa, Ariz. at the age of 76.

Surviving Kenny are his step-daughter, Rhonda Simpkins of Carlin, Nev.; his two sisters, Thelma Decker and husband, Paul of St. Johns, Ariz., and Zelpha Mae of Aztec, N.M. Preceding him in death are his parents; and his wife, Ruth Madeline Brown.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page

Emma Dolores Guillet

Memorial services for longtime Cortez resident Emma Dolores Guillet will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Emma was born Jan. 7, 1908, in Mancos to Roy and Dolores (Brun) Dean. She passed away Sunday, Jan. 11, 2004, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home. Emma was 96.

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

Thelma Iva Tate

Memorial services for Dolores resident Thelma Iva Tate will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 29, at the Arriola Bible Church. Pastor Kent Slyter will officiate.

Thelma was born Aug. 12, 1909, to Victor and Emma Nobel. She went to be with her Lord Saturday, Jan. 24, 2004, at the age of 94.

Thelma married Ralph P. Tate Dec. 29, 1924, in Chandler, Okla. In 1932 Thelma, Ralph and their children moved to the Dolores area. The time of their move was during the Depression era. As many families did during the Depression years, Thelma and Ralph continued to move around due to job scarcity. They moved back into the Dolores area in 1943, where they raised their family.

Thelma was a homemaker and was also the inspiration for Ralph to build and remodel more than seven homes in the Dolores area as well as one in Oregon and one in Steamboat Springs, Colo. Thelma worked side by side with Ralph, from pouring concrete to nailing on roofs. She always made time for sewing her family's clothing, cutting their hair, pulling teeth and helping with homework. After raising her children, Thelma filled her time with quilting, rug-making and reading.

Surviving Thelma are her daughters: Mae Tate of Surprise, Ariz.; and Betty Graves of Payson, Ariz.; her sons: Ralph Tate and wife, Mavis, of Alabama; Charles Tate and wife, Lindy, of Casa Grande, Ariz.; her daughter-in-law, Wilma Tate of Surprise; as well as her "adopted family:" Francis and Ray Opperman of Albuquerque; and a passel of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren who will all miss her very much.

Preceding Thelma in death were her husband, Ralph; a son John Tate; and a daughter, Anna Hover.

Arrangements are being made through the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page

Hazel Kathleen Allen

Funeral services for lifelong Dove Creek resident Hazel Kathleen Allen will be held at 1 p.m. today, Jan. 24, at the Dove Creek First United Methodist Church. Interment will follow at the Dove Creek Cemetery. The Rev. Suzanne Listemann will officiate.

Hazel was born July 2, 1927, in Ellington, Mo., to Frank Pepper and Elsie (Knuckles) Buffington. She died Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2004, at the Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 76.

On Oct. 2, 1946, in Aztec, N.M., Hazel married David Kaye Allen. A dedicated farm wife, Hazel worked side by side with David over the years. She was an active member of the Dove Creek First United Methodist Church, and belonged to the United Methodist Women’s Club. She belonged to the Tigress Club as well as sat on the board of directors for the Dolores County Public Library.

Surviving Hazel are her husband, David Allen, of Dove Creek; her four children: Phyllis Kay Snyder and husband, Sidney, of Cortez; Vicki Kathleen Bailey and husband, Mickey, of Huntsville, Texas; Leslie David Allen and wife, Wilma, of Tonopah, Nev., and Jay Frank Allen and wife, Tamara, of Dove Creek. She leaves 13 grandchildren, and 18 great-grandchildren; as well as her siblings: Gladys McFarland; Belle Ivie; Aleene Neely and husband, Pete; Shirley Diedrich and husband, Bob; Ray Buffington, and wife, Pat; and Glen Buffington and wife, Judy; as well as her sister-in-law, Janet Buffington.

Preceding her in death were one brother, George Buffington; and two sisters, Dorothy Johnson and Zelma Vinger.

Memorial contributions can be made in Hazel’s name to the Dove Creek First United Methodist Church or to the Dolores County Public Library.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.  Top of Page  

Reba Maxine Crawford

Graveside services for former Dove Creek resident Reba Maxine Crawford will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, at the Dove Creek Cemetery.

Reba was born May 21, 1909, at Corning, Okla., the daughter of James Ogilvie and Ophelia (Horn) Ogilvie. She died in Grand Junction, Colo., Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2004, at the age of 94.

On March 30, 1928, Reba married James Clifton Crawford at Leveland, Texas. Together the couple shared 39 years of marriage before James’ death in 1967.

Reba moved to the Grand Junction area 36 years ago. Since that time she became a member of the Bookcliff Baptist Church and was involved with WMU. She enjoyed quilting, gardening, crocheting and her church. Reba loved the time spent with her family and friends.

Surviving Reba are her sons: Jim Crawford and wife, Ella, of Dove Creek; John Crawford and wife, Ann, of Grand Junction; Bill Crawford and wife, Dorothy, of Pahrump, Nev., and George Crawford and wife, Harriet, of Clifton, Colo.; and her daughters: Anita Hemphill of Pinedale, Wyo. and LaVonne Stephens of Merkel, Texas. Her sister, Marie Lockhard of Herriman, Tenn.; and 22 grandchildren, 61 great-grandchildren, and 17 great-great-grandchildren also survive Reba.

Preceding Reba in death were her husband; son, Roy Neal; granddaughter, Jona Lee; great-grandson, Michael David Breneman; and two sons-in-law, David Hemphill and Bob Stephens.

Memorial contributions can be made in the name of Reba Crawford with the Bookcliff Baptist Church–WMU Circle.

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

Keith Rolland Pettigrew

Keith Rolland Pettigrew, 82, died from complications of pneumonia Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2004, at Four Corners Health Care Center in Durango. A funeral will be 10 a.m. today, Jan. 20, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Durango. Bishop James Cooper will officiate. Military graveside services will be held by V.F.W. Post 403. Burial will occur at Greenmount Cemetery in Durango.

Mr. Pettigrew was born Dec. 19, 1921, in Monument, Kan., to Ernest and Ethel Virginia (Madison) Pettigrew. He moved to Colorado from Kansas in 1935. He was married to Lorraine Floyd Dec. 9, 1945. The couple had two children.

Mr. Pettigrew is a veteran of World War II. He served in the U.S. Navy from June 1941 to his discharge March 30, 1949. During this service, he was on the USS Hornet and was a former member of the famed Torpedo Squadron 8, all of who were aviation machinist mates (2C) receiving the Presidential Unit Citation Award. Later he joined the Air Force Reserve, where he was called back into active duty and sent to an Air Force base in Great Falls, Mont. He served as an aircraft mechanic for three years.

Upon returning to Colorado, Mr. Pettigrew spent numerous years in automotive service and parts. He ended his work years as a clerk for the U.S. Postal Service, retiring in 1986.

He loved fishing and spent many days on the lakes in the area.

Mr. Pettigrew is survived by his wife, Lorraine, of Durango; daughter, Diane Allen and husband, Vaun of Magdalena, N.M.; son, Ron Pettigrew and wife, Janet, of Durango; granddaughter, Jennifer Glover and husband, Brian, of Durango; grandson, Jacob Pettigrew of Durango; and a brother, Karl Pettigrew and wife, Jeanne, of Logan, Utah. Top of Page

Harry Beletso Jones

Funeral services for lifelong Montezuma Creek, Utah, resident Harry Beletso Jones will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Harry was born at Montezuma Creek March 22, 1923, the son of Tom Beletso and Jessie (West) Beletso. He died at L.D.S. Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, Saturday, Jan. 17, 2004. Harry was 80.

On April 15, 1951, in Shiprock, N.M., Harry married Agnes Scott. He was a longtime member and delegate at large in the Four Corners area for the Native American Church. He also served on the school board for Aneth, Utah, and was a board member of UNDC. A veteran of World War II, Harry served his country in the Army Air Corps.

Surviving Harry are his wife, Agnes Jones of Montezuma Creek; his children: Wilford B. Jones and wife, Janet, of Bluff, Utah; Delbert B. Jones of Nashua, N.H.; Harold B. Jones and wife, Sally, of McCracken Mesa, Utah; Laverne J. Tom and husband, Terrance, of Blanding, Utah; Carlene A. Jones and husband, Derwin, of Blanding, Utah, and Rayford B. Jones of Albuquerque, N.M.; 25 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Two sisters, Irene Ben and Rose Mark; and one brother, Sam B. Jones, also survive Harry.

Preceding Harry in death were his daughter, Shirley W. Begay; and sons: Norman Begay and Clifford B. Jones; and two brothers and one sister.

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

Elsie Pauline Bernack

Elsie Pauline Bernack, 84, died Jan. 11, 2004, in Billings, Mont., after a lengthy illness. She was 84.

A funeral Mass was cerebrated Jan. 14. Rite of committal took place in the Laurel Cemetery in Laurel, Mont.

Mrs. Bernack was born Oct. 2, 1919, in Grant County, N.D., to Gottfried and Pauline Swoboda Baesler. She was raised and received her early education in North Dakota, later attending school in the Chicago area.

She married Frank Bernack at Glendive, Mont., Jan. 20, 1942. After the military and living in different locations, they made their home near the Park City, Mont.

Mrs. Bernack was a longtime member of St. Anthony’s Church in Laurel. She had many interests in life including reading and writing poetry. She worked as a telephone person and tax preparer, but most importantly, as a homemaker.

Mrs. Bernack is survived by her daughter, Janet Wimsett-Schock and husband, Fred; her son, James Bernack and wife, Judy, of Cortez; grandson, Jesse Wimsett; granddaughters: Faedra Grubbs and Deidra Robbins; brothers: Rueben Baesler and wife, Ruby; and Erland Baesler and wife, Juanita, of Ville Platte, La.; sister, Bertha Bozic of San Leandro, Calif.; numerous stepchildren; stepgrandchildren; nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her husband; an infant son, Frank Bernack, and grandson, Frank Wimsett.  Top of Page  

W.H. "Tuffy" Overton

W.H. "Tuffy" Overton died at the Vista Grande Nursing Home Thursday, Jan. 15, 2004, at the age of 84. He was born April 4, 1919, in Killeen, Texas, the son of Dick and Sally Roena (Levy) Overton.

Tuffy, as he was so fondly known by family and friends, served in the U.S. Army during World War II. On July 4, 1941, he married Louise Whaley in Belton, Texas. For many years, Tuffy held the position of supervisor, running the oil fields in Aztec. The couple moved to the Cortez area in 1979 where Tuffy has been able to enjoy his love of fishing and gardening.

He was a loving husband, father and grandfather, and will be greatly missed.

Surviving Tuffy are his beloved wife of 62 years, Louise Overton, of Cortez; children: Carole of Alaska, Linda of Oklahoma, Cheryl of Cortez, Janet of Cortez, and Bill of New Mexico; as well as eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions can be made in the name of W.H. "Tuffy" Overton with the Citizens State Bank of Cortez.

No services are planned at this time.

Arrangements are being made through the Ertel Funeral Home.  Top of Page  

Juan D. 'J.D.' Alcon

Juan D. "J.D." Alcon, 93, died Saturday, Jan. 10, 2004, at Southwest Memorial Hospital in Cortez.

Visitation was held Tuesday, Jan. 13, at Hood Mortuary in Durango. A rosary was said at St. Columba Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial was yesterday, Jan. 14, at St. Columba Catholic Church. Burial occured at Greenmount Cemetery in Durango. Fr. James Koenigsfeld of St. Columba Catholic Church will officiated.

Mr. Alcon was born May 20, 1910, in Corum, Okla., to Porfirio and Marina Montoya Alcon. He married Frances Marquez Alcon, his wife of 71 years, Dec. 29, 1930, in Lumberton, N.M.

Following retirement from the construction industry as a laborer, he served for several years as the custodian for the Kiva Theater in Durango.

According to his brothers and sisters, he enjoyed spending time with his family, helping others in any way possible, the outdoors and being a real "jokester."

Mr. Alcon is survived by two sons: Eloy Alcon of Grand Junction, and Phil Alcon of Durango; four daughters: Candie Gurule of Durango; Bea Black of Ogden, Utah; Carmel Valdez of Casa Grande, Ariz., and Caroline Martinez of Denver; two sisters: Porfiria Rendon of Chama, N.M., and Margaret Sandoval of Albuquerque; a stepsister, Mary Ray of Albuquerque; a stepbrother, Julian Montoya of Bloomfield, N.M.; 15 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife; three daughters: Virginia Alcon, Maximiliana Alcon and Juanita Alcon; two sons: Albert Alcon and Demostenes Alcon Jr.; a sister, Beatriz Arquello; a brother, Casimiro Alcon; three half-sisters: Isabel Martinez, Nora Marjerison, Teodosia Martinez; a half-brother, Albert Alcon; and a stepbrother, Juan Montoya.

Arrangements were handled by Hood Mortuary.  Top of Page  

Harry George Hindall

Harry George Hindall died outside Cortez Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2004, at the age of 69. He was born to Byron and Evelyn (Eck) Hindall in Wadsworth, Ohio, June 27, 1934.

Harry served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps. During his career he worked for Northrup as a production engineer.

In 1996, Harry moved to Cortez where he became active in the Four Corners Rifle and Pistol Club. Harry held a deep love of the outdoors and shooting. He enjoyed his time spent with the youth of the area helping them with their shooting skills. Harry was also a good handyman.

Surviving Harry are his children: Donna Harris and husband, Brian, of Oceanside, Calif., and Jerry Eckardt of Los Angeles, Calif.; two sisters: Barbara Donnely and Pat Zimmerman; and his sister-in-law, Nancy Hindall, of Cortez.

His brother, Jack Hindall, preceded him in death.

No services are planned at this time.

Arrangements were made through the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page

Dollie Lucille Sutton

Graveside inurnment services for former area resident Dollie Lucille Sutton will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, at the Cortez Cemetery. Pastor Jimmy Kennedy will officiate.

Dollie was born Oct. 14, 1921, in Dolores. She died Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2004, in Fullerton, Calif., at the age of 82.

Her two daughters: Marilyn Gay Just and Carolyn Kaye Boles; her sister, Nora Peters; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild survive Dollie.

Services will be conducted by the Ertel Funeral Home. Top of Page

Grace Di Pietrantonio Aspromonte

Grace Di Pietrantonio Aspromonte, 89, died of natural causes Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2004, at The Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos

A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated Saturday at Sacred Heart Church in Durango. The Rev. Joseph L. Gallegos officiated. Burial followed in Greenmount Cemetery, after which a reception was held at the Durango-La Plata Senior Center.

Grace was born in Fallascosa, Italy, April 27, 1914, the youngest child of Nicoletta Piccoli Di Pietrantonio and Paolino Di Pietrantonio. After her father's death when she was small, she lived with her mother, three brothers and one sister in their grandparents' home until she was 19. The family's circumstances meant that she only had a third-grade education, but she trained as a seamstress and learned to weave her own linens.

She married Charles "Charlie" Aspromonte, of Durango, who had gone to Italy to find a wife, and she came back with him to live in Durango. The couple's mothers had gone to school together in Italy. In 1957, she became a widow at the age of 43, with two grown children and three more to raise.

Primarily, Mrs. Aspromonte was self-employed from home as a seamstress, foster-mother and child-care provider. She cared for many children until she retired at 82.

She was a member of the Sacred Heart Altar Society and of the Sorelle Di Colombo Lodge.

Mrs. Aspromonte is survived by her daughters: Angelena "Angie" Aspromonte of Palmdale, Calif., and Clara Aspromonte-Piccoli of Bayfield; her sons: Dominic Aspromonte of Mancos; Dean Aspromonte of Durango, and John Aspromonte of Aztec; her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Charitable contributions may be made to favored charities. Top of Page

Edward Baltes

Edward Baltes, a resident of Cortez, died Jan. 9, 2004, at his residence. He was 60.

A memorial Mass will be celebrated at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, in the St. Margaret Mary's Catholic Church. Fr. Derrek Scott will be the celebrant. Inurnment will follow the services in the Cortez Cemetery columbarium. A Rosary will be said at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, in the Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel

Mr. Baltes was born to Joseph J. and Adella A. Ruhhoff Baltes March 24, 1943, in New Hampton, Iowa. He graduated from parochial schools in Alta Vista, Iowa.

Mr. Baltes served his country in the U.S. Air Force after high school. On June 6, 1964, at the Selfridge Air Force Base in Mt. Clements, Mich., he married Alice R. James. They were blessed with two daughters.

Mr. Baltes worked as a diesel mechanic while residing in Arizona. After moving to the Cortez area in 1990, he continued his employment as a diesel mechanic with the Montezuma-Cortez School District for 6 and a half years.

Mr. Baltes was a member of the Montelores Catholic Community. He enjoyed wood crafting and remodeling homes.

Edward Francis Baltes is survived by his wife of more than 40 years, Alice, of Cortez; two daughters: Kimberley Feies and husband, Curtis, of Show Low, Ariz.; and Kelly Hamilton and husband, Michael, of Tucson, Ariz.; two brothers: Bernard Baltes of Rolling Prairie, Ind.; and Donald Baltes of Rochester, Minn.; two sisters: Rosemary Boge of Buena Vista, Iowa, and Janice Archer of Ottumwa, Iowa; numerous nephews and nieces, as well a three grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 3801 Main Ave., Durango, 81301.

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

Services for Emma Guillet are pending with the Ertel Funeral Home.

Emma died Sunday, Jan. 11, 2004, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home.

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

Funeral services for longtime Dolores resident Anna Louise Hover will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Pastor Larry Chappell will officiate. Cremation will follow the services.

A visitation is scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, at the Ertel Chapel.

Ann was born Jan. 1, 1935, in Dolores to Ralph P. and Thelma I. (Nobel) Tate. She died Saturday, Jan. 10, 2004, at her home in Dolores at the age of 69.

On Nov. 24, 1955, in Aztec, N.M., Ann married Thomas Elwood Hover Sr. With this union three sons were born. In 1964 the family moved to Flagstaff, Ariz., where they resided until returning to Dolores in 1987. Ann was a lifetime member of the V.F.W. and American Legion Auxiliary. Some of Ann's favorite pastimes included sewing and crafts, but most of all she loved to read.

Surviving Ann are her three children: Tom Hover and wife, Patti, of Dolores; John Hover and wife, Lorraine, of Sierra Vista, Ariz.; and Sgt. First Class Randy Hover and wife, Lynn, of Lee, Mass.; and her mother, Thelma Tate of Dolores. She leaves 11 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren; and her sisters and brothers: Mae Tate of Surprize, Ariz.; Betty Graves of Payson, Ariz.; Ralph Tate of Morris, Ala.; and Charles Tate of Casa Grande, Ariz.

Preceding her in death was her husband, Thomas Elwood Hover Sr., and brother, John Tate.

Funeral services for longtime Cortez resident Eliza Wadena Luthi will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 14, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

A visitation is scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. today at the Ertel Chapel

Eliza was born March 6, 1913, in Lamar, Colo., to Peter Ruben and Lillian May (Knight) Wagner. She died Friday, Jan. 9, 2004, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home at the age of 90.

Surviving Eliza are her children: Myron E. Luthi of Cortez; Robert E. Luthi of Grass Valley, Calif.; Mary M. Imel and husband, Dan; Lucille E. Waterman and husband, Arie; and David W. Luthi and wife, Paula, all of Cortez; her grandchildren: Steve Farris and wife, Lori, of Cortez; Michelle Matney and husband, Paul, of Durango; Rob Luthi of Grass Valley; Sherri Knight and husband, Andrew, of Orangevale, Calif. She leaves four great-grandchildren; and her brother and sister, Roy Wagner of Ignacio, and Ida Kelley and husband, Victor, of Odessa, Texas. Numerous nieces and nephews survive Eliza as well.

Preceding her in death was her husband, Emil Marvin Luthi.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Oscar Lyles, a former resident of Cortez, died Jan. 7, 2004, in The Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos. He was 84.

A graveside service was conducted Jan. 12 in the Cortez Cemetery. Fr. Derrek Scott officiated.

Mr. Lyles was born to James and Dora Norman Lyles Jan. 7, 1920, in Lexington, Texas. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army. He received a Purple Heart for wounds sustained during the battle of Normandy.

Mr. Lyles moved to Cortez from Simi Valley, Calif., in March 2003. He was a carpenter for most of his life and a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, local union 0150. He was also a member of the Roman Catholic Church.

Oscar L. Lyles is survived by a son, Jim Lyles of Oregon; a daughter, Ann Scott of Alabama; brother, Ben Lyles and wife, Sue, of Texas; a sister, Lila Lyles, of Texas; longtime companion, Rita Banbury of Alabama; two grandchildren: Ryan Scott, of San Diego, and James Lyles of Washington state; numerous nephews and nieces.

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

Arrangements for Milburn Guy Tripp are pending with the Ertel Funeral Home.

Milburn died Sunday, Jan. 11, 2004, at the Mesa View Retirement Home at the age of 92.

For further service information, contact the Ertel Funeral Home at 565-3468. Top of Page

Eliza Wadena Luthi

Services for Cortez resident Eliza Wadena Luthi are pending with the Ertel Funeral Home.

Eliza was born March 6, 1913, and died Friday, Jan. 9, 2004, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home at the age of 90.

For further service information, contact the Ertel Funeral Home at 565-3468.  Top of Page  

Oscar Lyles

Oscar Lyles, a resident of Cortez, died Jan. 7, 2004, in the Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos. He was 84.

A graveside service is scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 12, in the Cortez Cemetery.

A visitation will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday in the Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel.

Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale & Gerken is serving the family.  Top of Page  

Edna Pearl Schriner

Edna Pearl Schriner was born Sept. 15, 1907, in Woodward, Okla., to Harry B. and Verna Iola (Davis) Nixon. She died Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2004, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home at the age of 96.

In 1935 Edna married Roland A. Schriner at Walsenburg, Colo. She was a homemaker who enjoyed fishing and crocheting.

Surviving Edna are her two children: Nettie Mae Waters of Atlanta, Texas, and Keith Loyal Hart and wife, Nancy, of Cortez. Her stepson, Roland Schriner, of Castle Rock, Colo., also survives Edna. She leaves six grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and eight great-great-grandchildren; as well as her sister, Margaret "Peggy" Wharton of Cañon City, Colo.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Roland A. Schriner; and her brother and sister, Archie Lee Nixon and Helen Wells.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled through the Ertel Funeral Home.  Top of Page  

Dr. Jay Baker "Doc" Hinton

Dr. Jay Baker "Doc" Hinton was born to Sam Houston Hinton and Viola Priscilla York Hinton May 12, 1912, in Fort Thomas, Ariz. He died Jan. 2, 2004, at the age of 91.

A memorial service will be held Jan. 9 at Johnson Chapel in Yuma, Ariz. Burial will be Jan. 10 in Tempe Double Butte Cemetery.

Doc’s early life was spent on his father’s cattle ranch. After graduating from Florence High School he went on to Arizona State Teachers’ College (now ASU), graduating in 1935 and obtaining his master’s degree in education in 1942.

During this time he met his beloved wife of 65 years, Virginia Lee Austin, of Tempe, Ariz. They were married at Tempe Christian Church June 3, 1938.

His teaching career followed and in 1946 his life took a new direction as he moved his family to the San Francisco Bay Area where he studied four years, receiving in 1950 his doctor of dental surgery degree from the Stanford College of Physicians and Surgeons. Thus a new nickname, "Doc." His private practice was in Casa Grande, Ariz., and Yuma.

Since 1959, he and Ginger enjoyed spending the summers in their second home in Rico.

Survivors are his wife, Virginia Lee "Ginger" Hinton, and daughter, Jean Ann Morris and husband, Bob, of Yuma; sons: Dr. Jay Hinton and wife, Kathleen, of Fresno, Calif.; Patrick Hinton and wife Bobbie of Coarsegold, Calif.; daughter-in-law, Pam Hinton of Madera, Calif.; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews; numerous grandnieces and grandnephews and extended family.

He is preceded in death by a sister, Gladys Hinton Ellis Wilson; and son, Jonathan Michael Hinton.

Memorial contributions may be sent to the Jonathan Michael Hinton Memorial Scholarship Fund, 415 Fairview, Madera, CA 93637.  Top of Page  

William Ward Nowotny

William Ward Nowotny, 75, died Jan. 5, 2004, in Lake Havasu City, Ariz. He was born to Clarence and Beatrice (Ward) Nowotny March 3, 1928, in Denver.

Memorial services are to be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, at River Lodge in Parker Dam, Calif., with Louie Marsh officiating.

William had been a frequent visitor to the Colorado River area for the past 15 years, visiting from Cortez. For 42 years, he was the manager of the Cortez City Market and a member of the Cortez Elks Lodge and Lions Club.

William is survived by his best friend and loving wife of almost 53 years, Harriet; son, Thomas Neil Nowotny; daughter, Sharon Kay Nowotny-Underwood; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren and another on the way.

Donations are requested to go in his name to Citizens State Bank of Cortez, P.O. Drawer T, Cortez, 81321. A charity will be decided at a later date.

Arrangements were entrusted to Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home.  Top of Page  

Marie Violet Hodson Parker

Funeral services for longtime area resident Marie Violet Hodson Parker will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 10 at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Dove Creek Cemetery.

Marie was born to Levi William Hodson and Gertrude P. (Baker) Hodson June 27, 1919, at Tryon, Okla. She died at Southwest Memorial Hospital Monday, Jan. 5, 2004. She was 84.

On Sept. 21, 1944, in Boise, Idaho, Marie married Edward Clayton Parker. Together they shared 51 years of marriage until his death in 1995.

Marie was a member of the Dove Creek First Baptist Church.

Surviving Marie are her daughter and son-in-law, Debbie and Don Cline, of Cortez; granddaughter, Casey Cline, of Cortez; and great grandson, Joel Trampp, of Cortez. Three sisters-in-law and numerous nieces and nephews also survive her.

Preceding Marie in death were her husband, one brother and one sister.

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

Alan Scot Cook

Services for lifelong Cortez resident, Alan Scot Cook will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10 at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Lebanon Cemetery.

Visitation has been set for Friday from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Ertel Chapel.

Alan was born Sept. 26, 1962, in Cortez to Jess B. Cook Jr. and Betty (Holmes) Cook. He died at his home in Cortez Saturday, Jan. 3, 2004, at the age of 41.

On Sept. 26, 1983, Alan married Mary Elizabeth Switzer in Tribune, Kan. He loved hunting and fishing and his motorcycle. Alan enjoyed going early in the morning to have coffee with his buddies. He also dearly loved country and western music and dancing.

Surviving Alan are his wife, Mary Cook of Cortez; his 10-year-old son, Eddie Alan Cook, of Cortez; and extended family: Rhonda Padilla and husband, Fred, of Cortez and their children, Isaac and Elicia; Vicki Miller and husband, Tony, of Aztec, N.M., and their children, Demitri and Mistery; Ed and Maxine Switzer of Cortez, and Betty and Frank McMurrey of Pueblo, Colo.

Preceding Alan in death were his parents, and a son, Joseph Alan Cook, in 1996.

Memorial contributions can be made in Alan Cook’s name with First National Bank of Cortez.

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

Frances Mildred Goff

Funeral services for Frances Mildred Goff, a longtime Cortez resident, will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 7 at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Greenmount Cemetery in Durango. Pastor Joseph Calloway will officiate.

Visitation has been set from 6 to 7:30 p.m. this evening, Jan. 6, at the Ertel Chapel.

Frances was born the daughter of William Morgan and Margaret Gowdy (Weir) Morgan Feb. 20, 1904, at Rockvale, Colo. She died at Southwest Memorial Hospital Saturday, Jan. 3, 2004. She was 99 years old.

Frances graduated from Durango High School in 1922 and later that year married Elmer Edward Dosher. Frances was a member of the VFW Auxiliary, and an avid bowler, she belonged to the Women’s Bowling League. She also enjoyed going to the casino and meeting people.

Surviving Frances are her two daughters: Elsie M. Sheets of Cortez and Willa J. Baker of Winslow, Ariz.; 16 grandchildren, 37 great-grandchildren; 31 great-great-grandchildren; one great-great-great-grandchild; and many extended family members and friends.

Preceding Frances in death were three sons: Raymond Dosher, Floyd Dosher and Marvin Dosher; three brothers: Freddie Morgan, William Morgan and George Morgan; and one grandchild.

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

Thelma Elaine Marshall

Thelma Marshall, a resident of Cortez, died Jan. 3, 2004, in the Southwest Memorial Hospital. She was 74.

Cremation has taken place and no services are planned.

Mrs. Marshall was born to Joseph and Mary Bolen Larson June 30, 1929, in Idaho Falls, Idaho. She attended schools in Idaho Falls; Athal, Idaho, and in Central Valley, Wash.

Mrs. Marshall was one of the first women contractors in the United States, and her name appears in the Who’s Who Book of Records for that achievement. She married Donald A. Marshall Oct. 15, 1953, in Superior, Mont.

Mrs. and Mrs. Marshall worked together in the flooring industry for 15 years while living the Washington. They moved to Hawaii and continued this venture for 13 and a half years. After retirement, they traveled extensively throughout the United States.

Mrs. Marshall was a member of the Association of General Contractors in Washington. She enjoyed making jewelry, especially rings.

Thelma Elaine Marshall is survived by her husband, Donald, of Cortez; two sons: Jim Koenig of Vancouver, Wash., and George Marshall of Philadelphia, Pa.; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

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

Roy Shelton

Roy Shelton Jr., a resident of Dolores, died Jan. 1, 2004, in the Southwest Memorial Hospital. He was 74.

Cremation will take place, with a memorial service to be planned at a later date this spring.

Mr. Shelton was born to Roy and Alma Elizabeth Curry Shelton Feb. 18, 1929, in Witchita Falls, Texas.

He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean war from 1950 to 1952. Mr. Shelton married Ruth Brown June 5, 1953, and they were blessed with a son, James Roy, Jan. 31, 1958.

He worked in the printing industry while residing in California for 28 years. Mr. Shelton moved to Colorado in 1981 and built a log cabin in Dolores.

He began working for the Montezuma County Sheriff’s Office and began attending the police academy in Delta, Colo. After successful completion of his academy work, he went to work for the Montezuma County Jail. Mr. Shelton retired in June 1999 as a detentions sergeant.

In September 1999, he received special recognition from Rep. Scott McInnis for his service to Montezuma County and Cortez. "He was an asset who will be greatly missed in his office by all who work with him and, indeed, all who ever have worked with him. We all owe Roy Shelton a thank you for his service to the community," McInnis said.

In June 2003, Mr. and Mrs. Shelton celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.

Mr. Shelton was a kind and gentle man who will be missed by all who knew him.

Roy Shelton Jr. is survived by his wife, Ruth, of Dolores; his son, James and wife, Sydney, of Glendale, Calif.; grandchildren: Lyndsey, Leah and Lanette Shelton, all of Santa Clarita, Calif.; a brother, Charles Shelton and wife, Mary, of Southern California; sisters: Betty Frazier; Ginger Skinner and husband, Del, and Joy Borisy and husband, Phil, all of Southern California.

Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale & Gerken is serving the family.  Top of Page  


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