William Riley Brown

William Riley Brown died Friday, Aug. 29, 2003, at the Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos. He was 98.

Mr. Brown was born June 4, 1905, in Monument, Colo. to Sam and Rhoda (Moore) Brown.

He lived in Monument until he was 13 then lived in various other places in Colorado throughout his life. At one time, he worked for the circus providing horses for their shows. He worked in the road construction industry for most of his life and at one time helped to build Camp Hale. Mr. Brown was known to be quite the storyteller. He could go on for hours talking about old-time cars and trucks.

Survivors include his two children, James Brown and Lila A. Brown; his granddaughter, Jami D. Brown, all of Cortez; and his sister, Lisa Johnson of Oregon.

Preceding him in death was his wife, Dorothy L. (March) Brown, whom he married on Feb. 19, 1930, in West Creek, Colo.

No services are planned at this time. Arrangements are being made through the Ertel Funeral Home.

Ronald L. Bruns

Ronald L. Bruns, a resident of Cortez, died Saturday, Aug. 30, 2003. He was 54.

Funeral services for are pending with the Ertel Funeral Home.

Ione Faye Rose

Ione Fay Readshaw Rose of Cortez died Aug. 29, 2003, in the Vista Grande Nursing Home. She was 89.

She was born Dec. 6, 1913, to Leonard and Cena Readshaw in Tyrone, Okla. She attended grade school and high school in Branson, Colo. After that, she attended Barnes Business School in Denver.

She married Troy J. Rose Oct. 26, 1933, in Denver, and they had four children.

The Roses moved to Telluride in the early 1930s where they ran a grocery store, Rose's Food Market, for 20 years. After the mines closed, they bought a ranch at Slick Rock, Colo., where they raised Hereford cattle and later grullo and buckskin horses. During this time, Mrs. Rose became the postmaster at Slick Rock. The couple also ran the Chuck Wagon Cafe at the bottom of Slick Rock Hill.

Mrs. Rose was a renowned cook, famous for her ham and beans, fried bread and homemade cinnamon rolls. She love playing games and won the hearts of her grandchildren with a cheeseburger D and thick-as-can-be milkshakes.

The Roses moved to Rangely, Colo., for a short time, but after Mr. Rose died in 1994, Mrs. Rose moved to Cortez, where she remained until her death.

Mrs. Rose is survived by two sons, Vern and Harold Rose and daughter Joyce Woodward and by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, daughter Marlene, three sisters and one brother.

A funeral mass is scheduled for 10 a.m. today at St. Jude Catholic Church in Dove Creek. Inurnment shall take place in the Rangely Cemetery at a later date.

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

John C. Weaver

John C. Weaver, a lifetime West End resident, died Aug. 27, 2003, while doing what he loved, flying. He was 60.

Mr. Weaver was born Dec. 17, 1942, in Rico, Colo., to Joe and Lucille Weaver.

He attended school in Rico and Telluride before moving to Nucla with his family in 1953.

He married Sandra Voytilla Feb. 17, 1963, in Nucla. He and his wife then moved to Naturita to build their home.

Mr. Weaver managed C&C Auto Parts for several years in Naturita prior to purchasing the Naturita Drug Store, which he and his wife operated for many years. After the demise of the uranium industry forced the closure of the store, Weaver worked as a Montrose County dispatcher where he worked for the last 13 years.

He was a retired member of the Nucla-Naturita Volunteer Fire Department, where he served as chief for many years. He was involved with EMS and ambulance service as well as Basin Clinic. Mr. Weaver also served of the Naturita Town Council, fire department board and Basin Clinic board of directors.

Mr. Weaver's favorite pastimes were flying, traveling with his wife to motorcycle rallies around the country, computers and electronics and spending time with his grandchildren.

Mr. Weaver was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Sandy Weaver; two sons, Rod and Jerry Weaver; grandchildren Alex, Logan, Kyle, Dusty and Tiffany Weaver; brothers Ralph and Leigh Weaver and sister Lorraine Thomas.

The Weaver family thanks everyone who has called and stopped by to visit during this difficult time.

Edward Martin Gilliland

Edward Martin Gilliland, a lifelong area resident, died Saturday, Aug. 30, 2003, at the Valley Inn Nursing Home. He was 92.

Mr. Gilliland was born the son of Mary Eliza (Martin) and Joel Thomas Gilliland on Sept. 14, 1910, in Guymon, Okla.

On Feb. 24, 1932, in Durango, he married Mary Elizabeth Aulston. The couple shared 70 years of marriage. Mr. Gilliland spent his life dryland farming in the Yellow Jacket area. In his free time, he loved to hunt and fish.

Surviving him are sons, Eddie J. Gilliland and wife, Melba, of Cortez, and Leon Gilliland and wife, Yvonne, of Yellow Jacket; sister, Laura Cook of Mancos; two nephews, Russell Aulston and wife, Lolita, of Yellow Jacket and Edward Kennedy and wife, LaVerne; and four grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren.

Mr. Gilliland was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Gilliland in 2002.

Funeral services for Edward Martin Gilliland, under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home, will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Pastor Jimmy Kennedy of the Lifeway Baptist Church will officiate. Burial will follow at the Fairview Cemetery in Yellow Jacket.

Visitation has been set for Wednesday evening from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Ertel Chapel.

Reta Frances Gray

Reta Frances Gray, a longtime resident of the area, died Sunday, Aug. 31, 2003, at Madison House in Cortez. She was 97.

Mrs. Gray was born June 11, 1906.

She is survived by her son and his wife, LeeRoy and Connie Gray of Cortez.

Funeral services are pending with the Ertel Funeral Home.

Elizabeth Marie Patterson

Elizabeth Marie Patterson, a longtime resident of Cortez, died Saturday, Aug. 30, 2003, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home. She was 97.

She was born in Fruita, Colo. on March 8, 1906, the daughter of Hope (Williams) and James Leslie Lockett. She spent the first five years of her life with her parents in Mexico at their gold mine.

In 1924 Elizabeth graduated from high school in Fruita. She attended Western State College earning a teacher's certificate. She married Ivan Walter Patterson, and the family moved to Cortez in 1944. Mrs. Patterson was an involved member of her community. She was a 75-year member of the Order of The Eastern Star, belonged to the Methodist Wesleyan Guild, Ute Mountain Study Club, and the Cortez Garden Club. She loved to knit, sew, crochet, cook and garden.

Survivors include two sons, James I. Patterson and wife, June, of Boulder, Colo., and Raymond T. Patterson and wife, Eileen, of Yellow Jacket; a brother, Leland T. Lockett of Brighton, Colo.; three grandchildren, Laurie Thomas of Tucson, Ariz., Craig Patterson of Erie, Colo., and Elizabeth York of Lenora, Kans., nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild.

Her granddaughter Raylene Osborne preceded her in death earlier this year. Three brothers, Roland Lockett, Vernon Lockett and James Lockett; and one sister, Velma Lockett, also precede her in death.

Services will be conducted by the Ertel Funeral Home. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, at the Cortez Cemetery. Memorial services will follow at 3 p.m. at the Cortez First United Methodist Church. The Rev. Ora Dailey of the Mancos First United Methodist Church will officiate.

Lillie Mae Daily

Lillie Mae Daily, a resident of Cortez, passed away Aug. 27, 2003. She was 81.

No services are planned at this time.

Lillie was born to James B. and Molly Adams Edwards Sept. 25, 1922, in Cameron, Okla. She married Henry O. Daily Sept. 19, 1942, in Oklahoma City. They were blessed with three children. Mr. Daily preceded her in death Jan. 28, 1978.

Mrs. Daily worked on aircraft during World War II at Will Rogers Field in Oklahoma City. Her most recent employment was working in a restaurant as a cook.

Mrs. Daily was a member of the Women of the Moose Lodge for many years. She enjoyed traveling and visiting with her brothers, Duke and Bob. Lillie loved to laugh.

Mrs. Lillie Mae Daily is survived by her children: James H. Daily; John H. Daily and wife, Linda; Gaye N. Alexander and husband, James; grandchildren, Tanith Fales and wife, Dana; one great-granddaughter, Valerie Fales; brothers: John Edwards and wife, Barbara, of Hansville, Wash.; Bob Edwards and wife, Billie, of Commerce City, Okla.; Raymond Edwards and wife, Pat, of Poteau, Okla.

She was preceded in death by her husband; two brothers: James Edwards and Charley Edwards, and one sister, Effie Edwards White.

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

Irwin L. Dotts

Irwin L. Dotts, 86, died at Crosslands Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Sandy, Utah, Sunday, Aug. 24, 2003, after a long illness.

Graveside memorial services and burial will be held in Rico Cemetery at the convenience of the family. The services will be conducted by the Masonic Lodge in Rico.

Mr. Dotts was born Feb. 4, 1917, in Bethlehem, Wayne County, Iowa, to the late Raymond Royal and Ada Bell (Arterberry) Dotts. Mr. Dotts was raised in Colorado where, on Sept. 21, 1938, he was united in marriage to Edna Elizabeth Hargrove in Rico. Edna is originally from Dove Creek.

In 1949, Irwin and Edna moved from Colorado to Carlsbad, N.M. He was a good father and a family man and was heavily involved with the Boy Scouts. He was popular for taking groups of Scouts on camping trips to Colorado and canoeing on the lakes of Minnesota and Canada.

Mr. Dotts led a difficult life as a miner. First in Colorado as a hard-rock miner around Rico, then in the potash mines outside of Carlsbad. In 1957, he worked in the uranium mines near Grants, N.M. He was affectionately known to his fellow workers as "Sarge" or just plain "I.L."

Finally, Irwin and Edna left New Mexico in 1964 and move to Las Vegas, Nev., where he worked at the nuclear test site north of there as a mining inspector until his retirement. In 2001, due to failing health, they moved to Sandy.

During their 37 years in Las Vegas, there were very few relatives or friends who failed to visit the Dotts’ as their hospitality was well known. One could always expect to be shown the town and have a nice steak or some great Mexican food. One of Irwin’s favorite pastimes was cutting and polishing rocks and making jewelry as he was an avid rockhound. He would frequently challenge a guest to "lift that ‘little’ rock over there," which happened to be near the porch and was nearly solid copper.

Mr. Dotts was a member of Masonic Lodge 79 in Rico, which he joined April 13, 1945.

He always maintained his ties with Colorado and had a summer cabin in Rico for several years. He will be sorely missed by all.

Irwin is survived by his wife, Edna; his daughter Margie Hayes and her husband, Dan, all of Sandy; his son Rick Dotts and wife, Bobbi, of Naugatuck, Conn.; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; one brother, Jim Dotts and wife, Nancy, of Gunnison; and sister-in-law, Audrey Dotts of Cortez. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Robert "Bob" Dotts of Las Vegas; two brothers: Myron Dotts and Raymond Dotts.

Donations may be made in Irwin’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Suite 1700, Chicago, IL 60601-7633. To make a donation by phone dial (800) 272-3900, or on the Web at http://www.alz.org             

Herbert Dennis Graham

Herbert Dennis Graham passed away Aug. 27, 2003, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix, Ariz.

A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. tomorrow, Aug. 31, at the Anasazi Motor Inn in Cortez.

Herb was born May 15, 1946, in Grand Junction. He spent his early life in Gateway, Colo., where he attended 12 years of school. He later relocated to Reno, Nev., where he worked for SPPCO for 21 years. Herb took early retirement and returned home to Colorado and worked with CDOT until his illness.

Herb is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Blaine Graham of Reno; his brother, Bruce Graham and wife, Bernice, of Phoenix; sister, Barbara McKinley of Cortez; niece, Susan Graham and nephews: Ray Graham of Phoenix, and Ed Guttridge and wife, Dena, of Cortez. Also surviving Herb are numerous aunts, uncles, great-nieces, great-nephews and friends who will greatly miss him.            

Lorraine Chagnovich

Lorraine Chagnovich was born Oct. 30, 1927, in Council Bluffs, Iowa, to John Clarence and Louise Margaret (Altrock) Oswald. She passed away Thursday, Aug. 28, 2003, at her home in Cortez at the age of 75.

On April 7, 1945, in Las Vegas, Nev., Lorraine married Alexander Chagnovich. She was a homemaker, raising six children.

Lorraine leaves behind her husband, Alexander Chagnovich of Cortez; her children: Cheryl K. Jarrett and husband, Melvin, of Cortez; Karen S. Garriga of Murray, Utah; John A. Chagnovich of Dolores; Marty V. Chagnovich and wife, Shauna, of West Valley City, Utah; Susan M. Hunt of Midvale, Utah; and Jacque L. Nelson of Hood River, Ore. Ten grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren; as well as her two sisters: Lorretta Woods of Council Bluff, Iowa, and Helen Oyster of Norwalk, Calif., also survive Lorraine.

Preceding her in death were her parents, John Oswald and Louise Oswald Haussener.

No services have been planned at this time.

Arrangements are being handled through the Ertel Funeral Home.            

Dusty Don Lance Robinson

Dusty Don Lance Robinson went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2003, at the young age of 21. His favorite scripture verse was John 3:16.

Dusty was born on Aug. 2, 1982, to Jeanne Foster Lance and Donald Lance in Durango. He grew up and attended school in Aztec, N.M., and was a lifelong member of the First Baptist Church in Aztec, where he was active in the youth group and was a mentor to all the younger youth.

He was a PFC in the U.S. Army and had just returned from a tour of duty in South Korea. Prior to joining the Army, he was employed at Sonic Drive In and Good Sam Nursing Home in Aztec, where he had a special gift for working with the residents. Dusty was a strong Christian who felt that God was calling him to become a youth minister after he finished his service in the Army.

Dusty loved camping, hunting, motorcycles, fixing things and just being with his friends. He was a notorious prankster who loved playing jokes on people and making them laugh. He loved his family and friends, and would do anything to help anyone in need. He had a way of giving unconditional love and forgiveness to all those around him.

He was preceded in death by his father, Donald Lance.

He is survived by his mother, Jeanne Robinson, of Aztec; his twin sister, Misty Lance, and her fiance, Paul Arneson, of Phoenix, Ariz.; and his little "sis," Lacey McDonald of Aztec; his adopted father, James Robinson, Flora Vista; his grandparents, Harold and Sis Foster of Cortez; great-grandmother Joyce Moore, Mancos; uncles Terry and wife Jacque of Montrose; Andy, Montrose; Robbie and wife Dawn, Whitewater, Co.; Lee and wife Dee, Panhandle, Texas; David and Andy of Phoenix. He is also survived by aunts Jody and husband Bill, Cortez; Angela and husband Bubba of Mancos; Tim of Texas, and Kathy and husband Vic of Clifton, and numerous cousins and other family members. He had one niece, Paige Ryan Arneson, who was born while he was in Korea and whom he never got to meet.

Dusty is also survived by many very close friends he counted as family; Michael, Debbie and Trevor Pratt, Ted and Betty Russell, Lloyd and Denise Wilhelm, Raymond and Paulette Hise, Karri and Jack Guin and Natasha Elliott.

Memorial services will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church in Aztec. Arrangements are by Cope Memorial. Contributions can be made to First Baptist Church Youth Ministry, Aztec, N.M.            

Oland G. Buddy' Godfrey

Funeral services for longtime Cortez resident Oland G. "Buddy" Godfrey will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26 at the Lighthouse Baptist Church. Pastor Larry Chappell will officiate. Interment is to follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Buddy was born in Creede, Colo., on March 13, 1936, to Delmear and Mary Belle (Earl) Godfrey. He passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital Saturday, Aug. 23, 2003, at the age of 67.

On Dec. 19, 1981, Buddy and Bonnie were married at Angel Fire, N.M. The couple relocated to Cortez in 1986.

Buddy became a dedicated member of the Lighthouse Baptist Church. He was a faithful servant to God and his church. One of his duties, which he dearly loved, was driving the church bus to pick up the children. He also enjoyed his time hunting and fishing.

Surviving Buddy are his beloved wife, Bonnie of Cortez; his children: Theresa Encino of Grants, N.M.; Wayne Godfrey and wife, Elizabeth, of Columbus, Mont.; Edward Godfrey and wife, Janet, of Truth or Consequences, N.M.; Robert Godfrey and companion, Pebbles, of Cortez, and Crystal Marez of Grants; and his stepchildren: James Lindsey of Florida; Patricia Jackson and husband, Hubert, of Albuquerque; Janet Rankin and husband, Michael, of Albuquerque; Sandra Mace and husband, Tony, of Grants; Bill Lindsey Sr. and wife, Cheryl, of Cortez; Tommy Lindsey of Cortez; Barbara Robles and husband, James, of Hobbs, N.M.; Judy Lopez and husband, Vincent, of Cortez; Johnny Lindsey and wife, Betty, of Craig, Colo., and Billy Lindsey Jr. and wife, Rebecca, of Cortez. Buddy is also survived by 39 grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; a brother, Earl Godfrey and wife, Marie, of Cortez; and two sisters: Lela Cook and husband, John, and Charlotte Stanley and husband, Ross, all of Phoenix, Ariz.

A brother, Albert Godfrey, preceded Buddy in death.

Memorial contributions can be made in the name of Oland G. "Buddy" Godfrey with the American Cancer Society.

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

Elsie Marie Lough

Funeral services for longtime Cortez resident Marie Lough will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Mr. Hunt Zumwalt will officiate.

Elsie Marie Sullivan was born Jan. 25, 1909, in Kansas City, Mo., the only child of Hurti and Dennis Sullivan. She passed away at the Valley Inn Nursing Home Saturday, Aug. 23, 2003, at the age of 94.

In 1929, Marie married John "Pete" Lough. He passed away in 1996.

Marie was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, she enjoyed crocheting and embroidering, and liked to keep house.

She is survived by three nieces: Jenny Beth Craig and husband, Earl, of Denison, Texas; Mary Ann Mardicai and husband, Ben, of Festus, Mo., Martha Higdon and husband, Murray, of St. Louis, Mo.; one nephew, Jodie Webb and wife, Deloris, of Comanche, Texas; as well as many friends and her brothers and sisters of the Cortez Church of Christ.

Preceding her in death were her parents; and her husband, John Homer Lough.

Memorial contributions can be made in Marie's name to the Four Corners Encampment, P.O. Box 14, Cortez, 81321.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Robert Olen Moore

Robert Olen Moore was born in Cortez Nov. 2, 1941. He passed away at home Saturday, Aug. 23, 2003, at the age of 61.

A funeral service is set for 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, in the Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel. Mr. Doug Carver will officiate. Interment will follow in the Arriola Cemetery.

A visitation will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. today, Aug. 26, in the Four Corners Funeral Chapel.

Mr. Moore is survived by his wife, Reva; his children: Melynda Carver and husband, Doug, and their seven children of Cortez; Greg Moore and his two children of Whitewater, Colo.; Vicki Michael and husband, Keith; Raeleen Boggs and her two children; Tony Moore and wife, Mary, and their four children; Jerry Moore and child, all of Cortez; Jody Moore and child of Farmington; Sarah Gray and husband, Shayne, and their seven children, of Pleasant View; Andy Moore of Dolores; Ann Moore of Cortez; Camela Gray and husband, Coy, and their two children of Pleasant View; Alex Moore and Rachelle Moore of Cortez; his mother, Laurna Moore; his brothers: Don, Jack, Phil and Stan, all of Cortez, and many other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Olen, and his sister, Gayle Ann Moore.

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

Ida Belle Taylor

Funeral services for longtime Cortez resident Ida Belle Taylor will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

A visitation is scheduled for Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ertel Chapel.

Ida was born May 17, 1908, in Delta, Colo., to Arthur Edwin and Ida Belle (Harris) Sidebottom. She passed away on Friday, Aug. 22, 2003 at Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 95.

Ida's family lineage goes back to the Mayflower. Her great-great-grandfather came to America on this ship.

Ida was a Rebekah and also belonged to the Southern Baptist Church. Her favorite holiday was Halloween when she could give out lots of candy. She loved both children and gardening.

Ida's children: Charles Taylor of Anchorage, Alaska; Dorothy Uptain of Cortez, and Lois Padia and husband, Ray, of Lakewood, Colo.; daughter-in-law, Velma Taylor of Lacey, Wash.; and step-children: Victor Taylor and Charlotte Stanley, all survive her. She leaves 13 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren and 16 great-great grandchildren; and one sister, LaVina Miller of Chino, Calif.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, Roy Taylor; two grandchildren: Diana and Donald Donaldson; five brothers and one sister.

Memorial contributions can be made in Ida's name to the American Cancer Society.

Services will be conducted by the Ertel Funeral Home.

James Wilson "Jack" Largent

Graveside services for longtime Cahone resident James Wilson "Jack" Largent will be held at 11 a.m. today, Aug. 23, at the Cahone Cemetery.

Jack was born June 24, 1924, in Shattuck, Okla., to Noah Chester and Laura Blanche (Neely) Largent. He passed away Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2003, in rural Cahone at the age of 79.

Jack grew up and attended schools in this area. As a young man, he joined the Navy.

On Nov. 12, 1944, in San Francisco, Jack married Roberta "Bobbie" Louise Wommack.

In 1975, Jack and Bobbie returned to the Cahone area. He worked as sales manager for the Rocky Mountain Geophysical Company, which was in the business of oil exploration.

Upon his retirement, Jack went into agriculture and began farming. He was a regular member of the Cahone Recreational Hall, loved fishing, hunting, traveling, golfing and playing horseshoes.

Jack is survived by his wife of 58 years, Bobbie Largent of Cahone; his children: Susan Eileen Sims and husband, Kelly, of Anaheim, Calif.; Donna Carol Copeland and husband, Jon, of Dove Creek; Jim Robert Largent and wife, Kate, of Bayfield; Larry Ray Largent and wife, Karen, of Durango; Jaclynn Marie Thoes and husband, Ron, of Cahone; and Randy Wilson Largent and wife, Kelly, of Elko, Nev. He leaves 20 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. Other surviving relatives include his sisters and brothers: Zelma Nielson and husband, Larry, of Pueblo; Billie Huff and husband, Ron, of Ceres, Calif.; Gaylord Largent and wife, Karen, of Abilene, Texas; Jim Largent and wife, Judy, of Paonia, Colo.; and Ken Largent of Crane, Texas.

Preceding him in death were his two sisters: Thelma and Louise; his three brothers: Neely, Slick and Don; as well as two infant siblings: Orville and Virginia.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.            

Howard Lee McNeill

Howard Lee McNeill died of heart failure Aug. 15, 2003, at the Pacific Care Hospital in Long Beach, Calif. He was 76.

Howard was born in rural Arriola May 23, 1927, the sixth child of Frank Ray and Emma Keisling McNeill.

Howard attended school in Cortez from 1933 until 1945, when he enlisted in the Navy as a corpsman. He served a short time and was medically discharged.

In the fall of 1946, he enrolled in Cortez Union High School with eight other returning veterans, and they were known as the "Kilroys." Howard did not graduate but received a GED before 1950.

Howard will be remembered by many area residents as a schoolmate, a favorite postal clerk and a favorite teller at Citizens State Bank. People waited in line so that he would serve them in each of those locations.

Howard owned and operated McNeill’s Liquors at the corner of Ash and Main Street for several years. During the 1950s, he was a member of the Cortez American Legion Post, the Cortez Elks Lodge and he played bugle in the drum and bugle corps organized during that time.

Howard left the area in 1959 and eventually resettled in the Long Beach area where he has remained throughout the years.

Howard married Maurine Haley in 1950, and the couple was later divorced.

Howard McNeill is survived by two children: Frank Ray McNeill and wife, Kathie, and their two children: Haley and Andrew, all of Edwards, Colo.; and Constance Lee McNeill Weese of Dove Creek; three brothers: Jeff McNeill of Elbert, Colo.; Frank W. McNeill of Hemet, Calif.; and Jim McNeill of Lava Hot Springs, Idaho; three sisters-in-law: Sue, Lori and Helen, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers: Stanley Ray McNeill and David Monroe McNeill, and his sister, Sadie Ann McNeill Graves.

No services are pending at this time.            

Mary Ann Foley

Memorial services for Mancos resident Mary Ann Foley will be held at 2 p.m. today, Aug. 21, at the Cortez First United Methodist Church. Reverend Lynn Evans will officiate.

Mary Ann was born Dec. 8, 1950, in Chicago to George and Bernice (Ganneway) Kemper. She passed away Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2003, at her home in Mancos at the age of 52.

Mary Ann was the loving wife of Jim Foley and beloved mother of twins, Krista Foley and Kimberly Gearin and husband, Whitney, all of Los Angeles.

She praised God through her glorious gift of song and started praise bands in Portland, Ore., and in Cortez.

Mary Ann brought the world to her daughters, traveling with them to South Africa and France. She was an inspiration to so many with her kind spirit and love.

Memorial contributions can be made in Mary Ann’s name to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements are being handled through the Ertel Funeral Home.            

Albert Manford Palmer

Albert Palmer, a longtime resident of Cortez, passed away Aug. 19, 2003, at his residence. He was 67.

A graveside service is set for today, Aug. 23, at 10 a.m. in the Summit Ridge Cemetery. Rev. Neely Lewis of the Montelores Baptist Church will officiate.

Mr. Palmer was born to Guy Manford and Dorothy Alberta Burke Palmer on Jan. 27, 1936, in Lebanon. He attended Montezuma Valley High School and received his GED.

Mr. Palmer married Patsy Small July 19, 1956, in Cortez. They were blessed with four sons.

Mr. and Mrs. Palmer owned and operated the Ute View Chevron station on South Broadway in Cortez for many years.

Mr. Palmer enjoyed fishing, gardening and woodworking.

Albert Manford "Sonny" Palmer is survived by his sons: Dan Palmer and Mike Palmer, both of Cortez; and Bill Palmer of Yakima, Wash.; Bob Palmer and wife, Karen, of Yuma, Ariz.; a brother, Bob Palmer of Nevada; four grandchildren: Crystal, April, Jessica and Ashley, and three great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Patsy, on April 21, 2001.

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.           

Howard A. Short

Funeral services for Howard A. Short, longtime Cortez rancher, will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 22 at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Masonic services will be provided by Cortez Lodge 133.

Visitation has been set for today from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Howard was born Dec. 12, 1916, to Arley and Eula Short in the Beulah community, northeast of Cortez. He passed away Sunday Aug. 17, 2003, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 86.

Howard grew up and expanded the family ranch in Beulah until retirement in 1992. He celebrated life with daily visits with God in God’s country, content with tending to his Herefords. He was at home waltzing across the dance floor or fly-fishing on the West Fork of the Dolores River.

After his retirement in 1992 he chose to travel the world to the Holy Lands, Ireland, Europe, Mexico, Alaska and Hawaii, always returning home to Colorado or Wickenburg, Ariz. during the Colorado winters.

Howard was an avid news reader, actively seeking daily information on local and national affairs maintaining active interest in his community. In later stages of retirement, he decided to spend more time with his daughter’s family in the small ranching community north of San Antonio, in Bulverde, Texas.

Howard entertained many with his early ranching stories of Colorado and the rich history of Mesa Verde and the surrounding area. He was extremely proud of his contributions to the Indian artifacts display at the Mesa Verde visitor’s center.

He doted on his grandsons, Christopher and Claude, along with his new granddaughter-in-law, Azza, who became a very special part of his life. Howard was a devoted member of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry and the Elk’s chapters in Cortez and Wickenburg for more than 56 years.

Surviving Howard are his sister, Laura Hill of Lynnwood, Wash.; daughter, Carole Simons of Bulverde; grandsons: Claude T. Griffin Jr. of Dallas, and Christopher Simons of Natalie, Texas; along with nieces: Lavena Saunders of Cortez; Nola Welsh of Boulder, Colo.; and nephew, Jim Hill of Lynnwood. Other surviving relatives include the Harry Rogers family of Cortez.

Preceding Howard in death were his parents; sisters: Ruby Short, Pearl Cook, Jewel Gardner; and brother, George Short; as well as his dearly departed wife, Cleo Miles, whom he married March 24, 1947, in Aztec, N.M.

Howard’s wishes were for any contributions to be sent to the Shriner’s Children’s Hospital, in care of Cortez Lodge 133, Cortez, 81321.

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

Edward Edwin Osterfeld

Funeral services for lifelong area resident Edward Edwin Osterfeld will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at the Arriola Community Center. Pastor Luther Shields will officiate. Cremation is to follow.

Visitation has been set for Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

"Pete" as family and friends affectionately knew him, was born in Cortez July 13, 1919, the son of Herman Henry and Lillie M. (Garbareno) Osterfeld. He passed away at his home in Dolores Sunday, Aug. 17, 2003. Pete was 84.

On March 17, 1948, in Aztec, N.M., Pete married Velma Marie Pritchett. The couple had shared 55 years of marriage together.

After serving his country in the Army, Pete joined the Dolores Chapter of VFW and the American Legion. He also belonged to the Four Corners Gem and Mineral Club and Four Corners Good Sam RV Club, and was a one-time member of the Odd Fellows.

Surviving Pete are his beloved wife, Velma Osterfeld of Dolores; two daughters: Kathy Jacobs and husband, George, of Dolores, and Martha Robinson and husband, Larry, of Dolores; a grandson, David Robinson and wife, Erica, of Dolores; great-grandson, Braden Rust-Robinson; his brother, Glen Osterfeld and wife, Marlene, of Cortez; and numerous cousins.

Memorial contributions can be made in the name of Edward "Pete" Osterfeld with Hospice of Montezuma, 1345 S. Broadway, Cortez, or Lewis Arriola Fire Department, P.O. Box 10, Lewis, 81327.

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

Velma Stella Helvey Siskowski

Velma Siskowski, a long-time resident of the area, passed away Aug. 15, 2003, at her residence after a lengthy battle with cancer. She was 86.

A funeral service is scheduled for 10 a.m. today, Aug. 19, in the Church of Christ in Cortez. Mr. Hunt Zumwalt will officiate. Interment will follow in the Cortez Cemetery.

Velma was born to John Oliver and Gertie May Felkins Hicks on Oct. 5, 1916, in Berwyn, Okla., She attended school in Oklahoma, and later married Lester Ben "Doc" Helvey on Oct. 31, 1936, in Hinton, Okla.. They were blessed with two daughters.

Mr. and Mrs. Helvey farmed in Pleasant View for many years. Mrs. Helvey preceded her in death on Jan. 30, 1978, in California.

Mrs. Siskowski lived in the area for 64 years. On Nov. 26, 1983, she married Freddie B. Siskowski in Cortez. She retired from Mountain Bell Telephone Co. in 1982 after 26 1/2 years. She also worked for J.C. Penny for 11 years.

Mrs. Siskowski was a member of the Church of Christ.

Velma Stella Helvey Siskowski is survived by her husband, Freddie, of Cortez; two daughters: Karel Ruth and husband, Bill Hurt, of Cortez, and Myrna Loy and husband, Doug Keck, of Edmond, Okla.; a brother, Cleo Hicks of Cortez; a sister, Margie Lewis of Bloomfield, N.M.; four grandchildren: Steven Hurt, Terry Hurt, Brent Keck and Blaine Keck; eight great-grandchildren: Megan, Amanda and Rachel Hurt, and Garrett, Davis, Brandon, Linda and Ashley Keck.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her first husband and three brothers: Bill, Henry and Odell.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Velma Helvey Siskowski to the Vectra Bank, 350 W. Montezuma Ave., Cortez, 81321, or to Hospice of Montezuma, 1345 S. Broadway, Cortez.

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

Constance Walker Helms

Constance Walker Helms passed away Aug. 7, 2003, in Sun City, Ariz. A memorial service will be held at noon Tuesday, Aug. 19, at the Greenlawn Cemetery in Farmington.

Constance Elizabeth Arrington was born to John and Winnie Arrington Sept. 28,1907, in Farmington. The family relocated to Gallup, N.M. in 1920. Her father was one of the original settlers of the San Juan region.

In Gallup, she met and married her husband Floyd Walker. Together they established the Puritan Bakery where she worked until the 1970s. To this union, one son, Robert, was born.

While living in Gallup, she was active in Eastern Star, Daughters of the Nile and the Smokerettes.

Following the loss of her husband, Floyd, Connie married Werner Helms and moved to Cortez. She was a member of Chapter EV, PEO.

Connie enjoyed traveling, sports and dancing. She still listened to professional football and basketball games.

Mrs. Helms is survived by her son Robert Walker and wife, Mary, of Sun City; sister, Lou Vayne McKay of Farmington; granddaughter Teri LeMarr and husband, Scott; great-grandchildren: Tracey Sneed and husband, Mike; Michelle LeMarr and Taber LeMarr; and great-great-grandchildren:Tori Sneed and Dalton Sneed, all of the Phoenix area. She is also survived by stepsons: Robert Helms and wife, Ann, of Cortez, and Dr. Charles Helms and wife, Norma, of Munster, Ind.; step-grandchildren: David Helms of Munster; Dr. Michael Helms and wife, Susan, of Granger, Ind.; Dr. Ann Helms and husband, Dr. Joe Budovec, of Milwaukee, Wis.; Barbara Helms of New York, N.Y.; William Helms of Northglenn, Colo.; and SharonGallegos and husband, Matt, of Dobbs Ferry, N.Y.; and two step-great-granddaughters.

Her two husbands, her parents, two brothers and one sister preceded her in death.

All who knew her as a very gentle and loving lady will miss her.            

Marjorie Laner

Marjorie Laner, a resident of Towaoc, passed away Aug. 9, 2003, at Southwest Memorial Hospital. She was 48.

A funeral service is scheduled for 11 a.m. tomorrow, Aug. 13, in the Red Barn at White Mesa, Utah. Interment will follow in the Blanding Cemetery in Blanding, Utah.

A visitation will be held today from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel.

Marjorie was born to Phillip and Inez May Posey June 6, 1955, in Cortez.

She enjoyed traveling, baby sitting, listening to soul music, eating Mexican food and roses. Marjorie also spoke Spanish.

Marjorie Laner is survived by a sister, Nora King and husband, Delbert Jr.; nieces: Lorainne Jones, Tracy King and Whisper King; nephews: Delbert Begay Jr., Peter L. Begay, Le Andrew W. Begay, Leon W. Begay and Sean Begay; her fiancé, Tommy May; aunts, uncles and many friends from White Mesa, Towaoc and Ignacio.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers: Raymond and Gilbert Posey, and her husband, Eugene Laner.

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

Kathryne Finley Stinson

Kathryne Finley Stinson passed away at her home in rural Dolores Sunday, Aug. 10, 2003, at the age of 93. She was born the daughter of William Penn Finley and Muriel (Bryan) Finley July 12, 1910, at Craig, Colo.

Prior to moving to the Dolores area in 1994, Kathryne resided in Craig where she served as a clerk in the Moffat County Assessor's Office. She was a 72-year member of PEO, Chapter AJ. Kathryne had a love of the outdoors and especially enjoyed going to the mountains and traveling.

Surviving Kathryne are her daughters: Louis Stinson of Dolores and Nancy Keleher and husband, Denis of Denver; three grandchildren: Siobhan Keleher and companion, Stuart Compton, of San Diego; Andrea Keleher of Denver, and Matthew Keleher and wife, Jennifer, of Seattle; and her brother, Bill Finley and wife, Eleanor, of Cortez.

Preceding Kathryne in death were her husband, Thatcher M. Stinson; her sister, Marcella Downs; and her parents.

Services will be held at a later date in Castle Rock, Colo.

Memorial contributions can be made in the name of Kathryne Stinson with the Dolores Senior Center or the charity of the donor's choice.

Arrangements are being made through the Ertel Funeral Home.             

Joseph Vegas Jr.

Joseph Vegas Jr., 76, of Oakdale, Calif., died Saturday, Aug. 2, 2003, at his residence. Private services were held at Deegan Funeral Chapel in Escalon, Calif.

Mr. Vegas was a native of Ripon, Calif. He lived in Oakdale for 70 years. He was a truck driver for the dairy industry for 20 years in the San Joaquin Valley. He also was a dairy owner for 20 years in Oakdale.

Mr. Vegas served in the Army in Korea during World War II. He was a member of Teamsters 439 and a member of the VFW.

Joseph Vegas Jr. is survived by his wife of 54 years, Hilda Vegas of Oakdale; his children: Fred Vegas and Jim Vegas, both of Oakdale; Dan Vegas of Mancos; Mari Rossini of Modesto; sister, Eva Olson of Oakdale; and brother, Alfred Vegas of Oakdale; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a daughter Jeanette Kennedy in 1998.

Memorial contributions can be made to Sierra Salem Christian Homes, 1545 Marsla Ave., Modesto, CA 95359.             

Frances M. Larimore

Memorial services for Frances M. Larimore will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, at the First Methodist Church in Dove Creek, Colo.

She died Aug. 1 in Salt Lake City after a lengthy illness.

Larimore, 86, was the widow of the late Lloyd J. Larimore, and they were both long time Dove Creek farmers.

She was born Sept. 28, 1916 in Towac, Colo. to Frank Lee and Helen Lewy McKibben.

Frances attended high school in Cortez, and that is where she met her future husband Lloyd. They were married in Cortez on Dec. 31, 1936.

The Larimores moved to their farm north of Dove Creek in 1940. During their near 40 years on the farm they raised two sons, Larry and Paul Larimore, and a daughter, Joan Cummins.

Following Lloyds semi-retirement, the Larimores moved to a log home along the East Fork of the Dolores River where Lloyd suffered a fatal heart attack there in 1982.

After his death, Frances remained in her mountain home for more than 10 years. She had many friends in the canyon.

In addition to her three children, Frances is survived by three of her five sisters. They are Marge Gore, Aileen Hamilton and Pat Lorenzini. She is also survived by seven grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to individuals favorite charity.            

Michael Anthony Green

Michael Anthony Green, 45, died Monday, August 4, 2003 at his home in Durango, Colorado, due to natural causes. The family will host an informal gathering on Saturday, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Greens Familys home, 3020 E. 7th Ave. Cremation will occur at Hood Mortuary Crematory in Durango.

Green was born March 16, 1958 in Murfreesboro, TN the son of Adrian and Sherrill Green. Green and his family moved to this area from Illinois in 1970. He worked at Four Corners Distribution. He loved his family and was an avid sports fan. Mr. Green loved his Broncos, Avalanche, and Rockies.            

 Ivy Lee Ingalls

Funeral services for Cortez resident, Ivy Lee Ingalls will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 9 at the First Baptist Church of Mancos. Interment will follow at the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Pastor Jimmy Burton will officiate. Visitation is Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel, 42 N. Market in Cortez.

Ivy was born on April 6, 1931 at Lake Charles, La. to David Poleet and Ida Elmira (Stanley) Ingalls. He passed away Tuesday, August 5, 2003 at the Heart Hospital of New Mexico at the age of 72.

On April 2, 1954 at Lake Charles, La. Ivy married Edith Merle Cox. Ivy loved to golf it was his passion. For 11 years he was a high school teacher and golf coach who took his team to three Louisana state championships.

He was also actively involved in the ministry for 44 years. He gave his last sermon the Sunday before his death.

Ivy is survived by his wife, Edith Ingalls; his daughter, Linda Faye O'Brien Ingalls; his grandson, Caden Tristan O'Brien all of Cortez; and his brother, Clyde Ottis Ingalls and wife, Jean of Lake Charles, La. Preceding him in death are his parents.

Memorial contributions can be made in Ivy's name to the Hesperus Baptist Church at P.O. Box 28, Hesperus, CO, 81326.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Theodore Max "Ted" Lesse

Graveside services for Theodore Max "Ted" Lesse will be held at 11:30 a.m. today, at Summit Ridge Cemetery. Military rites will be performed by the American Legion Ute Mountain Post No. 75 and the VFW.

Ted Lesse of Dolores passed away Aug. 4, 2003 at Southwest Memorial Hospital. He was 77.

Mr. Lesse was born to Max "Emil" and Croline Anna Lazarz Lesse on June 19, 1929, in Sauk Rapids, Minn. He attended Trinity Luther School and graduated from the Sauk Rapids High School. He then attended the Concordia Theological Seminary in Springfield, Ill. He also attended the Prairie Bible Institute in Three Hill, Alberta, Canada.

He attained his private pilots license and was a few hours short of receiving his commercial license while studying under the G.I. bill in Sauk Rapids.

Mr. Lesse served his country in the U.S. Army during Word War II. as a scout stationed in Sault Sainte Marie, Mich. He entered the service July 9, 1944, and was honorably discharged July 26, 1945.

He married Judy Arlene Blankenship in Myrtle Creek, Ore. on Aug. 31, 1935. They were blessed with six children.

Mr. Lesse was a merchant marine in Great Lakes and was also employed with the US Forest Service in the Northwest. He worked for the Great Northern Pacific Railroad, the US Postal Service and Boeing in Seattle. He was also employed as a machinist and tool maker in Louisville, Ky. and as a roofer in Jeffersonville, Ind.

Mr. Lesse had many church affiliations during his life, and was a self-proclaimed missionary.

His last great joy was the Apple Shed at Les and Shirley Nunns residence Friday nights, when he played his "q-chord."

He never missed a wrestling show.

Ted Lesse is survived by his wife Judy, of Dolores; sons, David (Jannell) Lesse of Cortez; Daniel (Melissa) Lesse of Cortez; Paul (Dawn) Lesse of New Albany, Ind.; daughters Lois (Tom) Massalsky of Jackson, Mich.; Leah (Jerry) Sanchez of Cortez and Ruth (Jeff) Proctor of Cortez; brother James Lesse of Seattle; 22 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

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

Bessie Looney

Former resident of Cortez, Bessie Looney, passed away at the home of her daughter in Locust Grove, OK on July 17, 2003.

Bessie was born February 2, 1916 in Rural Mayes County Oklahoma to Ellis and Jennie (Sisco) Moore. She attended school in Rose, Okla. She married H.L. Littlefield and to that union three children were born. She divorced and later married Doyle Loony. Bessie worked at Southwest Memorial Hospital as a nurses aid when she lived in Cortez.

Bessie is survived by: one daughter Wanda Ileene (Littlefield)Frazier of Locust Grove, Okla., one brother Audie Moore, two sisters Pearl McManus, and Mary Ashbaugh all of Cortez. Seven grandchildren Billy Frazier of Montrose, Carrie (Frazier)Witt of Locust Grove, Okla. , Glen Frazier of Owasso, Okla. Jill (Frazier) Collins of Montrose, Kelly (Littlefield) Boren, Clifford Littlefield, and Amy (Littlefield) Maybury of Cortez. Nineteen great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren.

Her father and mother, one son Clifford Alton Littlefield, a stillborn daughter Mary Margaret Littlefield, one great grandson Dylan Maybury and her son-in-law Bill Frazier precede Bessie in death, as did three brothers Wilkie, Olen, and Bearl Moore and one sister Viola Moore.

Funeral services were held in Locust Grove, Okla. and interment was at Rose Cemetery in Rose, Oklahoma.

Amanda Lee DeGagne

Funeral services for Cortez resident Amanda Lee DeGagne will be held at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 6 at the Lifeway Baptist Church in Cortez. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Mr. Ed Hicks will be officiating.

Amanda was born on June 20, 1987 in Anchorage, Alaska the daughter of Joseph Able and Patricia Sue (Williford) DeGagne. She passed away on Sunday, Aug. 3, 2003 at the Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 16.

Amanda was a talented poet, writer and artist. She was an overall good kid who knew no strangers. She had lots of friends.

Surviving Amanda are her mother and step-father, Pat and Larry Rule of Cortez; her father, Joe DeGagne of Wasilla, Alaska; her two sisters, Heather Lewis and husband Bryan of Mancos, and Sara-Jo DeGagne of Wasilla, Alaska; her four half-sisters, Kelley Blair of Warrensburg, Mo., Lisa Andersen and husband, Jerry of Great Falls, Mont., April Amarillo and husband, Mike of Bozeman, Mont., and Misty Rogers and husband, Rhett of Jackson, Miss. She leaves numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family.

Memorial contributions can be made in Amanda's name at Vectra Bank. Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

Bob Harmon

Laurel Robert " Bob " Harmon of Cahone passed away Aug. 3, 2003 at the Vista Mesa Assisted Living Center in Cortez. He was 73.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Aug. 7, at the Lewis Cemetery. Hunt Zumwalt and Richard Rogers of the Church of Christ will officiate.

Mr. Harmon was born to Laurel Leroy Harmon and Mary (Suckla) Harmon on Oct. 10, 1929, in Longmont, Colo. He married Ellen B. Combee and shared 50 years of marriage with her.

Mr. Harmon was employed as a rural mail carrier with the United States Postal Service., He enjoyed collecting rocks and restoring old cars.

He was also a member of the Church of Christ.

Bob Harmon is survived by his wife, Ellen of Cahone; sons, Mark (Esther) Harmon of Cortez and Steve (K.C.) Harmon of Mancos; sisters, Mary Jean Musick of Bloomfield, N.M. and Julie Greenwood of Aztec, N.M.; granddaughters Pei-li and Clair, and numerous nieces, cousins and aunts.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Montezuma, Inc., 1108 N. Mildred, Cortez CO 81321.

Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel, Hale & Gerken, is serving the family.Laurel Robert " Bob " Harmon of Cahone passed away Aug. 3, 2003 at the Vista Mesa Assisted Living Center in Cortez. He was 73.

A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. Aug. 7, at the Lewis Cemetery. Hunt Zumwalt and Richard Rogers of the Church of Christ will officiate.

Mr. Harmon was born to Laurel Leroy Harmon and Mary (Suckla) Harmon on Oct. 10, 1929, in Longmont, Colo. He married Ellen B. Combee and shared 50 years of marriage with her.

Mr. Harmon was employed as a rural mail carrier with the United States Postal Service., He enjoyed collecting rocks and restoring old cars.

He was also a member of the Church of Christ.

Bob Harmon is survived by his wife, Ellen of Cahone; sons, Mark (Esther) Harmon of Cortez and Steve (K.C.) Harmon of Mancos; sisters, Mary Jean Musick of Bloomfield, N.M. and Julie Greenwood of Aztec, N.M.; granddaughters Pei-li and Clair, and numerous nieces, cousins and aunts.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Montezuma, Inc., 1108 N. Mildred, Cortez CO 81321.

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

Leonard Begay Sr.

Graveside services for longtime Aneth, Utah, resident, Leonard Begay Sr., will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, at the Begay Family Cemetery in Aneth.

Leonard was born Jan. 19, 1928, in Hatch, Utah, to Big John Hosteen Tsoh and Jane Hosteen (Tsoh) Begay. He passed away Wednesday, July 30, 2003, at the San Juan Regional Medical Center in Farmington at the age of 75.

Leonard owned his own ranch, working cattle, sheep and horses. He enjoyed breaking horses and hunting big game and rabbits. Wrestling with the boys and giving his children and grandchildren kisses was something he dearly cherished.

Leonard was a traditionalist who gave all of his children and grandchildren Indian nicknames. He was fond of going to the sweat house, and tanning his own buckskin. He was also a member of the Native American Church, which he enjoyed very much.

Leonard is survived by his wife, Mary Handy Begay of Aneth; his sons: Delbert, Leo and Gerald, all of Aneth; his daughters: Angela of Price, Utah; Leann of Green River, Utah; Elizabeth of Lockesburg, Ark.; Leona of Salt Lake City, Utah; Mary Rose of Cortez; LaVerne of Grand Junction, and Leonard Begay Jr. of Grand Junction. He leaves one little sister, Rose Jelly of Ismay, Colo.; one brother, Jerry Begay of Montezuma Creek, Utah; seven nieces and three nephews; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents and his son, Lambert Begay.

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

Teddy Lynn Steerman

Funeral services for lifelong Cortez resident Teddy Lynn Steerman will be held at 3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 4, at the Lighthouse Baptist Church. Pastor Larry Chappell will officiate. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Visitation has been set for Monday from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Teddy was born the son of Marion and Marjorie Louise (Humphreys) Steerman on March 27, 1950, in Cortez. He passed away at his home in Cortez Thursday, July 31, 2003, at the age of 53.

A true outdoorsman, Teddy enjoyed any activity that took him to the outdoors. He most especially enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating and camping. Greatest, though, was the joy of time spent with his family.

Surviving Teddy are his wife, Donna (Rants) Steerman of Cortez; his daughters: Delphine Hatch of Cortez, and Vickie Root of Towaoc; son, Daven Whiskers of Durango; and his grandchildren: Charleen, Katherine and Charles. Also surviving Teddy are his father, Marion Steerman and wife, Rosalind, of Dove Creek; his brother, Danny Steerman and wife, Beth, of Sunnyvale, Texas; his twin brother, Terry Steerman of Ardmore, Okla.; his sister, Dana Steerman of Aztec, N.M.; an aunt, Marie Cato of Denver, as well as his many friends from Wal-Mart and the whole community.

Preceding him in death was his mother, Marjorie in June 1992; and his grandmother, whom he will join in heaven.

Services will be under the direction of Ertel Funeral Home.                 

Roy Henneman

Funeral services for longtime Cortez resident Roy William Henneman will be held at 10:30 a.m. Monday, Aug. 4 at the Trinity Lutheran Church. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery. Pastor David Dahl will officiate.

Roy was born Sept. 20, 1914, in Chippewa Falls, Wis., to William and Elizabeth (Rassbach) Henneman. He passed away Wednesday, July 30, 2003, at his home in Cortez at the age of 88.

On May 27, 1939, in Amery, Wis., Roy married Virginia Belle Clemens.

For 28 years Roy was the regional manager for Montgomery Ward Retail and Catalog stores. In October of 1971, the family moved to the Cortez area, where they joined the Trinity Lutheran Church. Roy remained a dedicated member for 32 years.

During his life in Cortez, Roy became a prominent member of his community. He served as mayor, city councilman, interim city manager, county commissioner, was a planning and zoning member, and sat on the board of directors of Southwest Memorial Hospital for six years. Roy was also a member of the Elks Lodge and Rotary Club.

In his spare time, he loved golfing, fishing and horseback riding. Most of all, Roy enjoyed keeping up friendships and personal relations.

Roy is survived by his wife of 64 years, Virginia Henneman of Cortez; his son, Jerry Henneman and wife, Maureen; and his grandchildren: David Henneman and Katie Henneman, all of Mancos.

Preceding Roy in death were his parents; his three brothers and two sisters: Herbert, Ray, Evander, Jessie and Mamie.

Memorial contributions can be made in Roys name at the Trinity Lutheran Church.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                 

William Henry "Bill" Hickey

William Henry "Bill" Hickey passed away at his home in Farmington Saturday, July 26, 2003, at the age of 80.

Memorial services will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovahs Witnesses, 800 W. 30th St. in Farmington. Cremation was provided by the Alternative Society.

Bill was born July 15, 1923, in Cortez where he graduated from MCHS. He met and married the girl of his dreams, Maxine Terrill, in 1944. They lived in Cortez until they moved to Farmington in 1950.

Bill started the Shoe Hogan Western Wear store in Farmington and Shiprock in 1968 and retired in 1977. This gave him time to spend in his gardens, flyfishing and gathering firewood, which he loved.

Bill is survived by his wife, Maxine Hickey of Farmington; sons: Gary Hickey and Ronald Hickey; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; one sister, Virginia Lichliter of California; a niece, Glenda Sinclair, and one nephew, Larry Lichliter.                 

Mary Lorraine Russell

Mary Lorraine Russell, a former resident of the Madison House in Cortez, passed away July 24, 2003. She was 76.

Cremation has taken place and no services are planned.

Mary was born to Roy and Reba (Winkler) Clements in Cincinnati, Ohio, Nov. 11, 1926. She married Leroy Proud in Cincinnati. After that marriage ended in divorce, Mary wed Roy Russell. They were together for 49 years before Mr. Russell preceded her in death in 1999.

Mrs. Russell was a homemaker and was formerly employed with Kroeger Food as a cashier in Cincinnati. She enjoyed playing bingo and playing the piano, especially hymns. She was also an accomplished accordion player.

Mary Lorraine Russell is survived by her sons: William Proud and wife, Gayle Prior, of Mancos; Charles Russell of Cincinnati; a brother, Arthur McNeeve of Plantation, Fla.; sister, Claire Gierse of Cincinnati; grandchildren: Michael and Kimberly Proud, and Charles "Chuck" Russell, and one great-grandson, Ryan Proud.

Mrs. Russell was preceded in death by her parents and second husband.

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

Mayretta Benton

Cortez resident Mayretta Benton was born Dec. 25, 1909, in Topeka, Kan., to Edward Clarence and Minnie Alice (VanMeter) Hackney. She passed away Saturday, July 26, 2003, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home in Cortez at the age of 93.

After marrying George Frank Benton, Mayretta became a wonderful homemaker and mother. Her home and family were her main interest and devotion. Mayretta was involved in the PTA, and she and George traveled a great deal. They loved camping. She also worked for JC Penny and Robinson's Department Store.

Mayretta leaves behind her son and daughter: Richmond P. Benton and wife, Janice, of Cortez; and Shirley Corbett of Brentwood, Calif. Her three grandchildren: Denise Corbett of Redwood City, Calif.; Brad Benton and wife, Amy, of Louisville, Ky., and Douglas Corbett and wife, Susan, of Tracey, Calif.; and her five great-grandchildren: Kelsey and Madison Benton of Louisville, Ky., and Michael, Joshua and Cassie Corbett, also survive Mayretta.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her beloved husband, George Benton; her daughter, Loretta Benton; her grandson, Craig Benton; and her brother, Stacy Hackney.

No services have been scheduled at this time.

Arrangements are being handled through the Ertel Funeral Home.                 

Beulah Summa

Funeral services for lifelong Towaoc resident Beulah Summa will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 30, at the Towaoc Presbyterian Church. Interment will follow at the Towaoc Cemetery.

A visitation has been scheduled for this afternoon at the Ertel Memorial Chapel from 2 to 5 p.m.

Beulah was born May 12, 1927, in Towaoc to John Summa and Louella Weeks. She passed away Sunday, July 27, 2003, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home in Cortez at the age of 76.

Beulah loved to keep her home beautiful, loved all dogs, and did excellent bead work. She also loved to be around the hand games and songs.

Surviving Beulah are her nieces and nephews: LaVerna Summa, Jennie Summa, Vera Summa, and Lena Summa, all of Towaoc; Richard Summa of Mescalero, N.M.; Linda Hill of Dallas; Kathryn Summa and Mary Summa, both of Towaoc; Toni McCook, Gloria McCook, Vernon McCook, Ronnie McCook, Tamaris McCook, Sandy McCook and Jessica McCook, all of Towao; and Kathy Weeks; as well as her granddaughter, Toya Hill of Dallas. She leaves 36 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were her parents.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                 

 

Kathryn Collins Hughes

Kathryn Collins Hughes, a longtime resident of Egnar, was born on Oct. 6, 1910 in Noel, Colo. (a railroad water stop in San Miguel County near Dallas Divide) to Samuel Collins of Telluride and Clara Barth of Sawpit, Colo. She passed away on Wednesday, July 23, 2003 at the Valley Inn Nursing Home in Mancos at the age of 92.

Her early years were spent in the Sawpit, Telluride area where her mother operated the mining company store.

In 1924 her mother married O.A. Krabbe and they moved to Egnar to his homestead. Kathryn and her mother operated the Egnar Post Office and general store from 1924-1968.

Kathryn married Perry Hankins in 1930 and had three sons, Sam of Egnar, Terry of Baggs, Wyo., and Carroll of Grand Junction, Colo.

She married Bill Hughes in 1968 and spent the next 22 years helping with his farming and gardens in the Dove Creek area.

In 1990 she moved to the Cortez Valley Sun Village apartments to be near Bill Hughes who was in a nursing home. During this time she spent a lot of time teaching and playing with her granddaughter Sara Hankins who was born in 1991. Kathryn loved her flowers, gardens, fishing and camping in the Colorado Mountains.

Three sons, 11 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 13 great great-grandchildren survive her. Preceding her in death are her parents; her husband, Perry Hankins; and her second husband, Bill Hughes.

There are no services scheduled at this time. Arrangements are being handled through the Ertel Funeral Home.                 

Blanche Burke

Funeral services for Blanche Burke a resident of Hatch, Utah, are pending with the Ertel Funeral Home.

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

Carol Elizabeth Kelting Patrick

Carol Elizabeth Kelting Patrick was born in Denver Nov. 9, 1928, and passed away July 15, 2003, in Springerville, Ariz. She was 74.

A service will be held Aug. 2 in Parker, Ariz.

A resident of Lake Havasu City, Ariz., and Pinetop, Ariz., Carol lived in Arizona with her husband Dick after his retirement from the Parker Dam, Calif., Metropolitan Water District. Carol was a beautician by trade and had owned and operated her own business as well as working with other salons.

Carol lived in Mancos from 1963 until 1971 where she and her husband owned theMancos Times -Tribuneand the Silver Peaks Restaurant.

She is survived by her husband, Dick, of the family home; daughters: Lynn Rogers and husband, Barry, of Parker Dam, and Pam Coppinger and husband, Del, of Mancos. She is also survived by two sisters: Cathy Rinaldi and husband, Ray, of Longmont, Colo., and Joy Grant and husband, Robert, of Mancos; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren, and a host of wonderful friends.

Memorial contributions are being accepted in Carol Patricks name at RTA Hospice and Palliative Care, 5658 Highway 260, Suite 5, Lakeside, AZ, 85929-5189, or phone (888) 273-0782.                 

Barbara Ann Been

Barbara Ann Been was born in Moab, Utah, Aug. 13, 1958, to Jay and Maxine (Cox) Leech. She passed from this life July 16, 2003, at San Juan Medical Center in Farmington. She was 44.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at the Lifeway Baptist Church, 601 N. Dolores Rd., in Cortez. Pastor Jimmy Kennedy will conduct the services.

Barbara died of kidney failure following a lengthy illness. She had been diagnosed with lung cancer in April.

Barbara was a very special person. She was very independent and enjoyed her home, family and her friends. She always had time for a visit or to listen to others’ problems.

When the time came for Barbara to have a kidney transplant, she did not ask anyone for help. Instead, she made and sold beautiful small pins and other jewelry. Barbara made enough money to enable her to go to Denver for evaluation.

Barbara is survived by her husband of 21 years, Michael Been, of Dolores; her mother, Maxine Leech of Moab; one daughter, Dawn Anderson and husband, Bob, of West Jordan, Utah; two sons: J. Elton "Jeb" Been, and David and wife, Mandy, of Moab; three brothers and two sisters. Also surviving are three grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father.

Barbara will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

A memorial fund has been set up for Barbara at Dolores State Bank, P.O. Box 848, Dolores, 81321.                 

Mary Juanita Hixon

Funeral services for longtime Lewis resident Mary Juanita Hixon will be held at 10 a.m. tomorrow, July 23, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Denny Gerlach will officiate. Interment will follow at the Lewis Cemetery.

A visitation has been scheduled for this evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Ertel Chapel.

Juanita was born Oct. 1, 1929, in Norwood, Colo., to Charles and Estella (Major) Combs. She passed away Saturday, July 19, 2003, at her home in Lewis at the age of 73.

On March 5, 1950, in Lewis, Juanita married Bruce V. Hixon. She was a member of the Southwest Cattle Womens Association, American Legion Auxiliary and the Lewis Friendship Club. She loved to crochet, and enjoyed making ceramics.

Her husband, Bruce Hixon of Lewis; her daughter, Sharon Schrack and husband, Charles, of Lewis, and son, E. Vance Hixon and wife, Mindy, of Wamsutter, Wyo., survive Juanita. She leaves one grandson, Logan Hixon; as well as her siblings. Numerous nephews and nieces.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                 

Laura Lynn Williamson

Laura Lynn Williamson, 47, formerly of Mancos, died Saturday, July 12, 2003, of respiratory complications in Little Rock, Ark.

A celebration of life will be held in Mancos at 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, in the Mancos Baptist Church.

Laurie was born in Pueblo, Colo., and moved to Mancos shortly thereafter. She was a 1974 Mancos High School graduate. She moved to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1976 and spent most of her adult life tirelessly working as a dental assistant. In December 2001, she moved to Little Rock.

Laurie loved the beach and outdoor sports such as hiking, camping, fishing and skiing.

Laurie will be greatly missed by her family and friends. She was the "life of the party," fun loving and had a wonderful sense of humor. She loved her family and friends and would do anything for them.

Laurie is survived by her son, Kory Bosler of Anchorage; brothers and sisters: Chet Williamson of Kinsale, Va.; Betty Rolnick of Garden Grove, Calif.; Gary Williamson of Atlanta, Ga.; Michael Williamson of Tarzana, Calif.; Chriee Quesnel of Eagle River, Alaska; Mark Williamson of Anchorage; Ruth Parrish of Roosevelt, Ariz., and Jim and Ronald Williamson of Mancos; and special friends, Mike Bosler of Anchorage; Michael Martin and Melody Trout of Little Rock; Sean and Leah Dixon of Northridge, Calif., and RaeDean Baysinger of Battle Mountain, Nev.

Her parents, Markes D. and Thelma R. Williamson, preceded her in death, along with brothers, David and Rob Williamson, and her sister, Pat Zemer.

Contributions can be made to Hospice Home Care Inc., 1501 N. University, Suite 500, Little Rock, AR, 72207.                 

Ella M. Garner

Ella M. Garner of Palisade, Colo., passed away Wednesday, July 16, 2003, at Mantey Heights Care Center. She was 88. Cremation will take place through Callahan-Edfast Mortuary in Grand Junction and no services are planned.

Ella was born June 29, 1925, to Ralph Otis and Phoebe Olive (Kennedy) Stoddard in a covered wagon in a canyon below Mira Monte. She spend her childhood in Disappointment Valley where her parents were homesteaders. Ella attended grade school in Disappointment then attended one year of high school in Pennsylvania.

Ella married Neales Lafayette Garner in Norwood, Colo., in 1935. Neales preceded her in death in 1989. Before moving to Palisade in 1989, Ella had lived in Cortez.

She enjoyed fishing, hunting for arrowheads and crocheting.

Ella is survived by one daughter, Joy Needham and husband, Darrell, of Palisade; a sister, Frances Larson of Cortez; two grandsons: David Needham and Joseph Needham; and two great-grandsons: Christopher Needham and David Allen Needham.

Her parents, two brothers and one sister precede her in death.

Services were under the direction of Callahan-Edfast Mortuary, Grand Junction.                 

Carol Frances Mykytiuk

Funeral services for Mancos resident Carol Francis Mykytiuk will be held at 2 p.m. tomorrow, July 23, at the New Life Assembly of God Church in Mancos. Pastor Jeff Morea will officiate.

Visitation has been set for this afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Carol was born Dec. 20, 1929, in Gunnison, Colo., the daughter of Albert and Mabel (Wilson) Roper. She passed away at her home in Mancos Thursday, July 17, 2003, at the age of 73.

On April 25, 1953, Carol married Walter Alexander Mykytiuk in Gunnison. Together they shared 50 years of marriage.

The couple and their young family moved to Durango where they resided for a number of years. While there, Carol joined the Durango First Baptist Church, giving her service in whatever capacity was needed.

Carol was a Christian woman who loved her God with all of her heart. She placed Him first in her life and spent that life serving Him. She loved sharing the word of God with the children and dedicated many years serving with the Childrens Evangelism Fellowship.

In 1993, Carol and Walter moved to Mancos and Carol became a member of the New Life Assembly of God Church. In her spare time she loved gardening in her flower beds, and the spending time in the mountains. She especially enjoyed time spent doing some sort of craftwork. Carol owned a complete encyclopedia of crafts. Most dear to Carol were her grandchildren ranging in age from 28 years to 4 months as well as her great-grandchildren.

Surviving Carol are her beloved husband, Walter of Mancos; her children: Gary Mykytiuk and his wife, Cindy, of Mancos; Marty Pritchett and husband, Ryan, of Grand Junction; Mary Sue Grein and husband, Ken, of Broomfield, Colo.; Dan Mykytiuk and wife, Wendy, also of Broomfield, and Glen Mykytiuk and wife, Jasmin, of Colorado Springs; 18 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Carol also leaves behind five sisters: Helen Hassel of Salida, Colo.; Evelyn Duncan of Denver; Ola Bartlett of Imperial, Neb.; Anna Mae Wall of Socorro, N.M.; and Noella Edwards of Brighton, Colo.; two brothers: Bob Roper of Gunnison, and John Charles Roper of Grand Junction.

She was preceded in death by three sisters: Gladys McAllister, Lorena Roper and Louise Roper.

Memorial contributions can be made in the name of Carol Mykytiuk with the Mancos Valley Bank and First National Bank, Mancos branch.

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

Jon Robert Eckerdt

Jon Robert Eckerdt, 83, of Rolette, N.D., passed away Saturday, July 12, 2003, in Trinity Hospital, Minot, N.D. He was born Jan. 13, 1920, to John and Minnie (Bucholz) Eckerdt in Rock Lake, N.D.

A funeral service was held Tuesday, July 15, in Ebenezer Lutheran Brethren Church in Rolette. Pastor Rocky Bronson officiated. Burial followed in Rock Lake Cemetery.

Jon completed his education and was a teacher for 50 years. He married Doris Mitchell Jan. 3, 1938, in Rock Lake. They lived in Cortez for 25 years before moving back to Rolette two years ago. While living in Cortez, Jon enjoyed working on his berry farm for 15 years.

Jon is survived by his sons: Bob Eckerdt and wife, Fern, of Rolette, and Jon Eckerdt of Azle, Texas; his grandchildren: Bobby Eckerdt and wife, Denise of Grand Forks, N.D.; Joy McKusick and husband, Scott, of St. Paul, Minn.; Mike Eckerdt of Hudson, Wis.; Louis Eckerdt and Jacyln Eckerdt, both of Longview, Texas; and his sister, Irene Lawrence of Langdon, N.D.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Arrangements were handled by Niewochner-Keplin-Elick Funeral Home of Rolla, N.D.                  

Louie Randolph

Louie Randolph, known as "Granny Lou" to her family and friends, passed away at Southwest Memorial Hospital Saturday, July 12, 2003. She was 85.

Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. today, July 17, at Peel Cemetery. A visitation was held yesterday at the Four Corners Funeral Chapel.

She was born June 2, 1918, in Ellington, Mo., to J.D. and Clara (Buffington) Knuckles.

Her quilting and cooking will be remembered by anyone who ever knew Granny Lou.

Louie Randolph is survived by her son, Tommy Randolph and wife, Rolayanne, of Dove Creek; grandsons: Rod Thompson and wife, Bonnie, and Noland Randolph, all of Dove Creek; four great-grandchildren; three sisters: Berthie Brewer of Arriola; Irene Randolph of Dove Creek, and Ruth Saunders of Cahone.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Arnold; a daughter, Glenda Thompson; four sisters; one brother, and one infant brother.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Alternative Society of Farmington.                  

Lynette Holaday

Lynette Holaday was born Nov. 24, 1949, in Springfield, Colo., to Fred and Alta Lucille (Wallace) Warren. She passed away Saturday, July 12, 2003, at her home in Cortez at the age of 53.

The jewel of Lynette's life was her grandson Bryndon. She loved playing and being with him. Lynette endured almost 20 years at City Market as a grocery clerk. In her spare time, she enjoyed reading.

Surviving Lynette is her daughter, Lisa Holaday; her grandson, Bryndon Holaday; her brother, Lyndell Warren, all of Cortez; as well as two nieces and one nephew.

Preceding her in death were her parents; and her sister, Sondra Jane.

No services have been scheduled at this time.

Memorial contributions can be made in Lynette's name at Citizens State Bank.

Arrangements are being handled through the Ertel Funeral Home.                  

Margaret Ellen Frans

Funeral services for Dolores resident Margaret Ellen Frans will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, July 14, at the Lifeway Baptist Church in Cortez. Pastor Jimmy Kennedy will officiate. Interment will follow at the Summit Ridge Cemetery. Visitation has been scheduled for tomorrow afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Margaret was born Oct. 7, 1928, in Shidler, Okla., to Garrett Lawerence and Lillian Oriole (Reasoner) Schnichels. She passed away Thursday, July 10, 2003, at her son's home in Dolores at the age of 74.

On July 11, 1954, Margaret married Glenn Frans in Cortez at the Methodist Church. Margaret enjoyed rock hunting with her husband very much. They lived their lives together until Glenns passing on June 19, 2001.

Margaret was a member of the Mildred Friendship Club, the Ute Mountain Gem and Mineral Society and the WMU at Lifeway Baptist Church. She was a dedicated pen pal who liked writing to her letter friends. She loved flowers, visiting with her friends and family and cherished her grandchildren.

Surviving Margaret are her three sons, and one daughter: Glenn D. Frans Jr.; Wayne L. Frans and wife, Debbie, and Darrell L. Frans, all of Dolores, and Pamela S. Bland and husband, Randy, of Cortez; her sister and brother: Elfie M. Schnichels of Ft. Scott, Kan., and David W. Schnichels and wife, Goldie; as well as her sister-in-law, Ann Schnichels of Ft. Scott, Kan.

Preceding her in death are her parents; her husband; and her two brothers: Norval G. Schnichels and Stanley L. Schnichels.

Memorial contributions can be made in Margaret's name to Hospice of Montezuma or to the Lifeway Baptist Church Building Fund at 601 N. Dolores Rd., Cortez, 81321.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                         

Walter S. Goff Jr.

Services for Dolores resident Walter S. Goff Jr. are pending with the Ertel Funeral Home.

Walter was born Jan. 22, 1940, in Somers Point, N.J., to Walter S. Sr. and Lorraine (Hiles) Goff. He passed away Thursday, July 10, 2003, at the Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 63.

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

Edwina Lee Woody

Edwina Lee Woody, a lifelong resident of Aneth, Utah, passed away July 8, 2003. She was 39.

A graveside service was held Friday, July 11, at her family cemetery in Aneth.

Wendy was born to Denet Yazzie and Hazel Silas Lee July 22, 1963, in Shiprock, N.M. She grew up and attended school in Aneth, graduating in 1983 from White Horse High School.

Wendy was married to Harry K. Woody for 20 years. They were blessed with five children.

She was employed most recently as a bus driver for the Aneth School District. She also worked as a heavy-equipment operator, and a mechanic. Edwina was formerly employed with Beula Apparel Company.

Wendy was a member of the Native American Church where she served as a water carrier and her husband served as a roadman. She enjoyed basketball volleyball, horseback riding, raising livestock, traditional and country and western dancing. Wendy was a very loving mother.

Edwina Lee Woody is survived by her husband, Harry K. Woody of Aneth; her sons: Theadrick Woody, Kevin Woody and Derrick Woody, all of Aneth; daughters: Elvina E. Woody and Annrelena C. Woody, both of Aneth; her mother, Hazel Silas Lee of Aneth; brothers: Roger R. Lee; Gary Lee and wife, Mary Rose; Henry Lee and wife, Arlene; Leonard Lee and wife, Betty, all of Aneth; sisters: Susie M. Lee; Marie Lee; Ellen Etsitty and husband, Eugene; Helena M. Lhill; Roselyn Lee; Mary Jane Phillips and husband, George; Esther Brady and husband, Charles, all of Aneth; Brenda Lee and husband, Freddie Tom, of Cortez; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

She was preceded in death by her father; her paternal grandfather, Benally Silas; maternal grandparents, Harry and Mary Ann Lee; a nephew, GeneDallas Etsitty; brothers: Dennis Lee, and an infant baby brother.

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

William Grover 'Bill'  Batt

Funeral services for lifelong Cortez resident William Grover "Bill" Batt will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, July 11, at the Arriola Church of the First Born. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Bill was born April 18, 1941, in Cortez to William Augustus and Ruby Grover (Brown) Batt. He passed away Sunday, July 6, 2003, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home at the age of 62. A talented artist, Bill loved to draw, play guitar and sing.

Surviving Bill are his wife, Phyllis Hoover Batt of Cushing, Okla.; his children: Tammy Batt, Stacy McManus, both of Cushing, Carrie Smith and Miranda Miller, both of Redding, Calif.; and his sister, Stella S. Taylor and husband, Ronald, of Farmington.

Preceding him in death were his parents; and his brother and sister: Johnny Batt and Esther Batt.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                         

Maude Floy Huskey

Graveside services for lifelong Egnar resident Maude Floy Huskey will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 11, at Peel Cemetery. Jack Brewer will officiate.

A visitation is scheduled for this evening from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Maude was born Jan. 29, 1916, in Shannon County, Mo., to Roy and Lula Brackett. She passed away Saturday, July 5, 2003, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home at the age of 87.

Maude was married to Edward Knuckles in Cortez in 1931. To this union were born three children: Helen, Robert and Richard. Maude and Edward shared 29 years of marriage before he passed away in 1960.

Maude married Victor Huskey Dec. 29, 1962, in Dove Creek and acquired two more daughters: Doris and Nadine.

Surviving Maude are her five children: Helen Valdez and husband, John, of Monticello, Utah; Robert Knuckles and wife, Merna, of Dove Creek; Doris Tavenner of Laguna Nigel, Calif.; Nadine Files and husband, Don, of Naturita, and Richard Knuckles and wife, Pat, of Dove Creek; 16 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; 12 great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Vivian Brewer of Monticello; and her only surviving aunt, Goldie Rose of Dove Creek.

Her parents; her husband, Ed, and husband Vic; one sister, two brothers; one grandson, and one great-grandson precede her in death.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                

Dorothy Marie Sluder

Graveside services for longtime Dolores resident Dorothy Marie Sluder will be held at 10 a.m. today, July 10, at the Summit Ridge Cemetery. Pastor Aaron Hatfield of the Durango Seventh Day Adventist Church will officiate.

Dorothy was born Jan. 11, 1914, in Eagles County, Okla., to John Edward and Lacie (Powell) Freeman. She passed away Saturday, July 5, 2003, at the Golden Years Retirement Home in Dolores at the age of 89.

Dorothy was an active member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church. She enjoyed reading her Bible, crocheting and crafting.

She is survived by her children: Donald Eugene Sluder and wife, Juanita, of Klamath Falls, Ore.; Doris Jaques and husband, Charles, of Arriba, Colo.; Peggy Becher and husband, Steve, of Cortez; eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband, Samuel Ross Sluder; her two sons: Charles Edward Sluder and Carl Dean Sluder; as well as 10 brothers and sisters.

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

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                

Sheila Wing Laner Whiteskunk

Funeral services for Sheila Wing Laner Whiteskunk, a lifelong resident of Towaoc, will be held at 10 a.m. tomorrow, July 13, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Towaoc Cemetery.

Wake services have been set for this evening beginning at 6 p.m. at 1508 Lafayette Street in Towaoc.

Sheila was born the daughter of Franklin Pyle Laner Sr. and Glenda Ann Wing on June 1, 1979, in Cortez. She passed away Wednesday, July 9, 2003, at Southwest Memorial Hospital as the result of an automobile accident. Sheila was 24.

A secretary for the Division of Wildlife, Sheila truly loved her job. She enjoyed in her free time playing softball, running and hunting.

Surviving Sheila are her husband, Frank Whiteskunk Jr. of Towaoc; a son, Kalvin Frank Whiteskunk of Towaoc; her father, Franklin Pyle Laner Sr. of Towaoc; her mother, Glenda Ann Wing of Towaoc; two sisters: Winifred Kay Laner and Windy Maelynn Laner; a brother, Franklin Laner Jr.; niece, Hanna White Wing Casey; and grandmother, Pearl Laner, all of Towaoc. She also leaves behind all of the Whiteskunk family, nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends.

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

Margaret Elaine Wilson

Funeral services for lifelong Cortez resident Margaret Elaine Wilson will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 12, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cortez on Empire Street. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

A visitation is scheduled for Friday evening from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Ertel Memorial Chapel.

Elaine was born Oct. 23, 1945, in Cortez to Byron Evans and Edith Ethel (Wilmarth) Hampton. She passed away Tuesday, July 8, 2003, at the Southwest Memorial Hospital at the age of 57.

On Nov. 4, 1977, in Cortez, Elaine married Douglas W. Wilson. She enjoyed playing the piano, singing and crocheting.

Elaine's husband, Doug Wilson of Cortez; her two children: Mary Vesta Valerio and husband, Tommy, of Ogden, Utah, and Scott Wilson of Cortez; her granddaughter, Samantha Wilson of Cortez; her mother, Edith Hampton of Cortez; and her sister, Evelyn Yoke and husband, Joe, of Hot Springs, Ark., survive her.

Preceding her in death was her father, Byron Hampton.

Memorial contributions can be made in Elaine's name to the Diabetes Association.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                

George Butch  Adams

George Butch Adams, 61, of  Paradise Valley, Ariz., passed away June 26, 2003, in Phoenix.

Born Aug. 11, 1941, in Pasadena, Calif., George grew up in California and first came here in the summer of 1957, working for Lloyd Sehnert at Lake Mancos Ranch; this was the beginning of a long friendship with the Sehnert family.

Although he moved to Phoenix and became a manager for The Arizona Bank, George and his wife Jean returned many times over the years, buying property at Jackson Lake in 1978 and building a cabin there in 1993.

In 1980, he began and operated Adams Graphics, a greeting card company. George, Jean and their son Taylor considered Mancos their second home and regarded their friends here as the finest anywhere on earth.                

Donald Eugene Evans

A memorial service for Donald Eugene Evans will be conducted by his family Saturday, Aug. 9, at 11 a.m.

All those who care to join us are warmly invited to attend at 27038 Highway 145 in Dolores.

Donald Eugene Evans was born April 16, 1937, in Grand Junction to Douglas Clair and Kathern Amelia (Lincoln) Evans. He passed away Thursday, July 3, 2003, at the Denver Health Medical Center in Denver at the age of 66.

Don married Nancy Armstrong June 20, 1996, in Dolores. He was a member of the Elks Lodge. Don enjoyed outdoor recreation such as boating, fishing and playing golf.

He is survived by wife, Nancy Evans of Cortez; his son and daughter: Douglas Evans and wife, Judy, of Arvada, Colo., and Dawn Katz and husband, Andrew, of Phoenix; two grandchildren: Kylie and Brent Katz; three brothers: Jerry Evans and wife, Dolores; Mel Evans and wife, Joyce, and Ken Evans and wife, Kathy; as well as numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.

Preceding Don in death were his parents.

Services will be held at a later date. Arrangements are being handled through the Ertel Funeral Home.                

Lois L. Hayes

Funeral services for lifelong Cortez resident Lois L. Hayes will be held at 2 p.m. tomorrow, July 9, at the Ertel Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

A visitation has been scheduled for this evening from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Ertel Chapel.

Lois was born April 20, 1919, in Chandler, Okla., to Lloyd A. and Doris E. (Baird) Brixey. She passed away Saturday, July 5, 2003, at the Mesa View Retirement home in Cortez at the age of 84.

Lois was a happy, friendly person who was generous and kind and was always willing to give of herself and her resources to anyone in need. She was a member of the American Legion, and worked for many years for Taylors Market and for City Market. She married Jess H. Hayes in Aztec, N.M.

Surviving Lois are her sisters: Doris R. French, and Charlene C. Parker. Preceding her in death were her parents; her husband; her daughter, Carol Ann Hayes who passed away when she was 15 years old of leukemia and her brother, Lloyd A. Brixey Jr., a U.S. Marine who fought in World War II and was killed on Saipan, Marianas Islands.

Memorial contributions can be made in Lois memory to Mesa View Retirement Home.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                

Derek Sam Lancaster

Funeral services for lifelong area resident Derek Sam Lancaster will be held at 10 a.m. today, July 8, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cortez on Empire Street. Interment will follow at the Cortez Cemetery.

Derek was born July 6, 1980, in Durango, Colo., to Sam and Ronda (Bishop) Lancaster. He passed away Friday, July 4, 2003, at the age of 22.

Derek was an avid sports buff who loved four-wheeling and playing golf. He knew everything about sports you could possibly want to know.

Surviving Derek are his parents, Sam and Ronda Lancaster of Pleasant View; his brother, Brandan Lancaster and wife, Kelsey, and their daughter, Deana of Durango; and his grandparents: Jess and Betty Lancaster, Willard Bishop and Nina Bishop, all of Cortez.

Memorial contributions can be made in Dereks name at Citizens State Bank or at the First National Bank of Durango.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                

Thelda Neely

Thelda Neely, a longtime resident of Naturita, passed away June 30, 2003, at her residence. She was 84.

A funeral service is set for Tuesday, July 8 at 10 a.m. in the Trinity Baptist Church in Naturita. Rev. Jimmie Carter will officiate. Interment will follow in the Cahone Cemetery.

A visitation will take place Monday from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Cortez Four Corners Funeral Chapel in Cortez.

Mrs. Neely was born to Ralph Francis and Mary Hannah Stewart hart in May, Okla., on Oct. 8, 1918.

On July 27, 1940, she married James Benson Neely in Monticello, Utah. They were blessed with six children.

Mrs. Neely enjoyed caring for her yard and her flowers, and making quilts.

Thelda Frances Neely is survived by her children: Lillian High of Springfield, Colo.; Burrell Neely and wife, Bonnie, of Glendive, Mont.; Myrl Neely and wife, Ruth, of Burlington, Colo.; Milfred Neely and wife, Jimmie Sue, of Naturita; Linda Relaford and husband, Daniel, of Craig, Colo.; and Roy Neely and wife, Lela, of Aurora, Colo.; 14 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; sisters: Dorotha Eades of Naturita; and Roberta Holdridge of Montrose; a brother, LeRoy Hart of Montrose; a brother-in-law, Raymond Neely of Lavern, Okla.; many nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband; her parents; a twin sister, Thelma E. Neely; father- and mother-in-law, Burrell and Lettie Neely; five brothers-in-law; five sisters-in-law; one son-in-law, and one great-granddaughter, Sheylaen Reane.

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

Martha Elizabeth Richards

Graveside services for Dolores resident Martha Elizabeth Betty Richards will be held at 2 p.m. today, July 8 at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Grand Junction.

Betty was born March 25, 1908, in Mud Creek, Kan., to Joseph Henry and Mary (Hopkins) Mason. She passed away Friday, July 4, 2003, at her home in Dolores at the age of 95.

Betty was dedicated to visiting her family. She would make her trip back to Kansas each May to see them. She made this trip every year until four years ago.

The outdoors, duck, goose and deer hunting, cooking, gardening, flowers and crocheting were all favorite pastimes of Bettys.

Her stepchildren, Harold Scott Richards of California, and Barbara Steele of Washington; her niece, Wyanda McComas of Dolores who looked after her; and numerous nephews and nieces survive her.

Preceding her in death are her parents; her husband, Jacques Richards; four brothers and two sisters.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.

William Thomas Martin

Graveside services for lifelong Dolores resident William Thomas Martin will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, July 25, at the Summit Ridge Cemetery. The Dolores Masonic Lodge will conduct the services.

Tom was born June 8, 1907, in Erath County, Texas, to John Lindsey and Clyde (Kelly) Martin. He passed away Saturday, June 28, 2003, at the La Pasada Hospice Care facility in Las Cruces, N.M. at the age of 96.

In 1911, Tom moved to Montezuma County. He graduated from Mancos High School and later graduated with a degree in advanced bookkeeping from a two-year business school in Texas. Tom also joined the United States Navy.

In 1933, Tom married Ruth Warfield. With this union a son was born, James "Jim" Martin. Because of health problems, in 1989 Tom had to move from Montezuma County to Las Cruces where he resided until his death.

Tom is survived by his son, Jim Martin and wife, Mary Ann, of Las Cruces; his grandchildren: William Ray Martin and wife, Carlene, of Roswell, N.M.; Thomas Merle Martin and wife, Camy, of Anthony, N.M.; Etta L. Martin DelMar and husband, Bob, of Hilton Head, S.C., and Hank J. Martin of Plano, Texas; as well as his great-grandchildren: James, Justin and Jerrod Martin; Martine Medina, and Candice and Bridget DelMar.

The family requests memorial contributions be made in Toms name to either Hospice of Montezuma or to the La Pasada Hospice Care Facility in Las Cruces.

Services are under the direction of the Ertel Funeral Home.                  

Donnis Jenevie Givens

Funeral services for Cortez resident Donnis Jenevia Givens will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 3, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Cortez. Larry Yarbrough will officiate. Interment will follow at the Sylvan Cemetery.

Donnis was born Jan. 2, 1922, in Ackman, Colo., to Samuel and Mary Evelyn (Upper) Bangs. She passed away Sunday, June 29, 2003, at the Vista Grande Nursing Home at the age of 81.

On Aug. 14, 1938, Donnis wed Charles Wilson Givens at Ackman. The couple shared nearly 64 years of marriage before Charles death in August 2002. Donnis and Charles we joint partners in a cabinet building shop. Donnis designed all the cabinets the shop produced. Charles was the wood worker, crafting each cabinet from Donnis design and she hand-finished the cabinets.

Donnis was a devoted lifelong member of the LDS Church and was very active in the Relief Society. She served many years as the Relief Society president.

Her dedication to her flower garden was apparent. She had a true green thumb with flowers. Arts and crafts were second nature to Donnis and she loved her time spent involved with them.

Surviving Donnis are her children: Karl E. Givens and wife, Susie, of Colorado Springs, and Donna C. Evans and husband, Raymond, of Grants, N.M.; six grandchildren: Paul Clark, Teressa Encinion, Wayne Godfrey, Edward Godfrey, Robert Godfrey and Crystal Marez; 14 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

Preceding Donnis in death are her beloved husband, Charles; and all of her brothers and sisters: Robert Bangs, Sumner Buck Bangs, Mary E. Bangs, Charles Bangs, Bertha Eggers, Clara Woodwardson and Marguerete Hawkins.

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

Carl Ragnar Hedlund

Funeral services for Dolores resident, Carl Ragnar Hedlund will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 2, at the St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Cortez. The Revs. Andrew Cooley, Steve Samples and Stephen Weissman will officiate. Cremation will follow services.

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

Carl was born Dec. 4, 1964, in Chicago to Kent Elof Johan Hedlund and Janice Rae (Anderson) Hedlund. He passed away Wednesday, June 25, 2003, at the Marion County Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis at the age of 38.

An accomplished mechanical engineer, Carl received his doctor of philosophy in mechanical engineering, master of philosophy in mechanical engineering, and bachelor of science of philosophy in mechanical engineering all at the University of Utah; as well as diplomas from the Ranken Technical Institute in diesel and automotive technology. He worked as the thermal and fluid systems engineer for General Electric, was a research assistant at the University of Utah, propulsions systems engineer at Hughes Aircraft Co., fleet maintenance manager for Economy Builders, and a mechanic.

During his lifetime Carl had nine journal publications, six conference publications and presentations, and four patents. He was a member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

Family and friends were most dear to Carl. His musical interests included the cello and choir. He, too, enjoyed the outdoors spending time bicycling, camping, kayaking, canoeing and telemark skiing.

Surviving Carl are his beloved wife, Erika Meyer of Dolores; his son, Johan J. Hedlund also of Dolores; his father, Kent Hedlund of Calais, Maine; his mother, Janice Davis and her husband, Dr. Paul Davis, of Mountain View, Calif.; his sisters: Jocelyn Hedlund, Esq., of Mountain View, and Kathryn Hedlund of St. Charles, Mo.

Contributions can be made in Erika Meyers name at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in memory of Carl Hedlund, 110 W. North St., Cortez, 81321.

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

Allen Jones

Allen Jones, a lifelong resident of Cahone Mesa, Utah, passed away June 29, 2003, in the Southwest Memorial Hospital. He was 86.

A funeral service is scheduled for 10 a.m. today, July 3, in the First United Methodist Church of Cortez. Rev. Lynn Evans will officiate. Interment will follow in the Cortez Cemetery.

Mr. Jones was born Sept. 5, 1916, near Montezuma, Utah, (Cahone Mesa). He lived there all his life. In 1949, he married Dorothy Kelly in Red Rock, Ariz. They were blessed with 10 children.

Mr. Jones was a retired bus driver for the San Juan School District. He also worked as a hard rock miner in Telluride and a uranium miner near Edgar, Colo. Mr. Jones ranched and was a carpenter, certified through the HTP program.

He was a member of the Red Mesa Christian Church.

Allen West Jones is survived by his wife of 54 years, Dorothy Jones of Cahone Mesa; sons: Bobby Jones and Raymond Jones, both of Cahone Mesa; Wesley Jones and wife, Lena, of Aneth, Utah; Toney S. Jones, and Michael Jones and wife, Elvina, all of Cortez; Daniel A. Jones and wife, Helena, of Hatch, Utah; and Darrin A. Jones and wife, Linda, of Rosenberg, Texas; daughters: Wyneva J. Trevino and husband, Visente, of Cahone Mesa; Marilyn Young and husband, Dan, of Cahone Mesa; 40 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; numerous nephews and nieces.

He was preceded in death by his brothers and sisters, and two sons, Sherman and Manual Jones.

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

Barbara Joyce Walker

Barbara Joyce Walker passed away at her home in rural Cortez Saturday, June 28, 2003. She was 53.

Joyce, as her family and friends called her, was born in Gallup, N.M., Jan. 9, 1950, the daughter of Don Gordon Walker and Audrey Mae (Moore) Walker.

Joyce was very active with 4-H and the La Plata County Fair. She was a Past President of the LaPlata County Fair. She was involved with the rabbit industry and belonged to the American Rabbit Breeders Association and the Four Corners Rabbit Breeders Association. Joyce was also a member of the National Havana Club, and Totah and was a past coordinator for Snow Down in Durango.

Surviving Joyce are her daughter, Andrea Jeter and husband, Chris, of Cortez; grandchildren: Tim Jeter, Staton Jeter, Wyatt Jeter, Cole Jeter and Ashley Jeter; and her parents, Don and Audrey Walker of Durango.

Memorial contributions can be made in the name of Joyce Walker with the First National Bank of Cortez to benefit the youth in the rabbit industry.

Arrangements are being made through the Ertel Funeral Home.

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