Stella Emma Lang went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, April 29, at Pine Ridge Extended Care Center in Pagosa Springs. Stella was born March 3, 1929, in Glenwood Springs, Colo. Stella was preceded in death by husband Raymond Lang, who passed away July 4, 2002, in southern California. Ray and Stella were married for over 56 years. Stella and Ray owned an A&W Drive-In restaurant in John Day, Ore., for most of their career and it was there where they raised their children.

Stella was always very involved in her church and kept busy ministering to young children in Sunday school, recording radio programs with young people and serving with women in Bible studies. She would often host visiting pastors and missionaries passing through their small town.

After fighting a bout of ovarian cancer in 1991, Stella and Ray relocated to southern California that year. She stayed busy in church ministries and always had a heart for sharing the love of the Lord with others.

She followed her daughter and son-in-law, Venita and Dan Burch, to Pagosa in 2008 and soon became involved in several ladies Bible studies in town. She spent several years volunteering at the Pagosa Pregnancy Support Center and has had a lasting impact on many young women and families in this community.

Stella leaves behind three children: Ron Lang, of Portland, Ore.; Stan Lang, of Tucson, Ariz.; and Venita Burch, of Pagosa Springs. She also leaves behind nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren (two of which are on the way).

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 16, at 1 p.m. at Pagosa Bible Church, 209 Harman Park Drive, Pagosa Springs (731-3120). In lieu of flowers, donations to the Pagosa Pregnancy Support Center (PPSC) in Stella’s name would be much appreciated. You can contact PPSC at 602 S. 8th St., P.O. Box 5437, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 (264-5963).

Gerald Wayne Logan, of Pagosa Springs, died May 2 at home. He was 66.

Known as Wayne, he was born April 26, 1949, in Hattiesburg, Miss.

He is survived by his companion and life partner, Cher Logsdon; two sons, Jason (Mary) and Kevin (Anita); five grandchildren; brother Douglas (Betty) Logan; and stepfather Arthur Breazeale.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Monita Breazeale.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Chimney Rock Interpretive Association.

Dorothy ‘Gail’ Elmore

Dorothy “Gail” Elmore went home to the Lord on May 4 after suffering a pulmonary embolism on May 3. She was 51 years young.

Gail was born Feb. 11, 1964, in Greencastle, Ind., and grew up in Kalamazoo, Mich. She was the middle child of the family, with her brother, Andy, and sister, Donna.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Lillian Carmel Rogers, whom she loved dearly. She is survived by her husband, Jeffery Scott Leavenworth; daughter, Laura Elizabeth Ogletree; and her stepchildren, Tamra Leigh Leavenworth, Tyler Jeffery Leavenworth, Stasi Danielle Thurston, Demi Lynn Hale and Lyle Eric Ogletree.

She earned her bachelor of science degree in nutrition science in September of 2011. Self-improvement and education was of great importance to her. She was always striving to better herself and educate those around her. She always demonstrated unbending professionalism in her work and encouraged that quality in those that she worked with.

Gail was a wonderful wife and loving mother, and she cared deeply about everyone around her. She has left an indelible mark on friends, family and the community. For those whose lives that she has touched, she will never be forgotten. Especially by the people that loved and cared about her most. She will be greatly  missed.

In loving memory of Ben D. Talamante

April 17, 1975-May 26, 1993.

Count your blessings and those you love. Count how lucky you are to have days and nights with those who matter in your life. Count your garden by the flowers, never by the leaves that fall. Count your days by golden hours. Don’t remember clouds at all. Count your nights by stars, not shadows. Count your years with smiles not tears. Count your blessings, not your troubles. Count your age by friends, not years.

After 22 years mi Ben, we still mourn your death, but we still share memories of your laughter, your smile and your loving heart.

God bless you.

Love, your family

Howard Franklin Fahrion, a long-time resident of Chama, N.M., passed away on May 19. He was born in Bayfield, Colo., on April 9, 1931, the son of Clifford and Georgia Fahrion, whose families were pioneers in the ranching communities of southwestern Colorado. His fraternal grandfather came to Colorado as a young boy on a cattle drive and later became the Silverton town marshal. His maternal great-grandparents came into the area in their covered wagons.

He grew up playing basketball. He went to Mesa College in Grand Junction on a basketball scholarship, stayed two years and decided he liked roping better. He loved working cattle and helping his father breed and raise quarter horses by his father’s stud horse Cowboy P12, one of the early sires in the American Quarter Horse Association bloodlines.

After serving four years in the Air Force during the Korean War, he returned home to become the livestock manager for the Jicarilla Apache Tribe and later had the same job for NAPI in Farmington.

He was an avid reader of western history and poetry, remembered everything he read and often quoted his favorites. We will miss his incredible memory and his sharp wit.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Don, and youngest son, Howard Don. He is survived by his longtime partner, the love of his life, Agatha Longgood; two sons, Jay (wife Sheri) and Craig (wife Kathy); six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; three nephews; two nieces; several great-nieces; nephews; and his sister-in-law, Betty Fahrion.

1937-2015
Pagosa Springs, Colo.

Jon Jenkins, inventor, engineer, rancher, husband, father, Trekkie, “Toy Man,” self-taught and all-around brilliant, charming man, died on Friday, May 15, at the age of 77.

Most significantly, Jon Jenkins was best known as a co-founder of IVAC Corporation and IMED Corporation, two major manufacturers of intravenous devices. As chief engineer, his inventions included the first electronic oral thermometer and the volumetric IV infusion pump.

In 1982, with the volumetric IV infusion pump as its star product, Jon Jenkins and other founders sold IMED Corporation to Warner-Lambert. At the time, it was the largest private sale in American history. Today, the volumetric IV infusion pump that Jon Jenkins invented is marketed through the Alaris Corporation.

JJ, as he was known as by his friends and family, was born in California, but raised in Minnesota. He joined the Marines in 1957 and was stationed in San Diego, Calif. His inquisitive, curious mind and his love of people made him the life of the party. Best known to his buddies and colleagues as the “Toy Man,” few things gave him greater joy than his electronics or anything that had an engine. His boats, motorcycles, dune buggies, planes, snowmobiles and his beloved Jon’s Town with state-of-the-art machinery inspired his inventions and were the entertainment center for family and friends. He was a connoisseur of the simpler things in life: his very own meatloaf recipe, mashed potatoes (no lumps) and lima beans fresh from the freezer. A scoop of vanilla ice cream was the crowning delight.

He is survived by his wife, Fran Jenkins, of 55 years and his four daughters: Shelly Sougias, Cindy Reno, Diane Luth and Kim Jenkins, as well as four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He lived in Colorado for the last 20 years in the town of Pagosa Springs.

Raise a glass of your favorite spirit to JJ for a life well lived.

Contributions can be made in care of Jon A. Jenkins to Scripps Hospice and Palliative Care, 9619 Chesapeake Drive, Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92126.

Thank you, Lauren, for being a part of our lives. You were loved by so many people and we strive to keep your memory alive. You will always live on in our hearts.

Love, Mom, Dad, Chris and your niece, Kamryn

Peggy Marie Lemon

A star in the sky became quite a bit brighter on May 26 when Peggy Lemon’s spirit ascended into heaven to the side of the Lord. Like everything she touched here on earth, she is sure to brighten the heavens also.

Peggy gave unconditional love to all her family and friends. She was a great listener and gave advice that fixed the problem. She refused to give up on anyone, no matter how bad the situation. She had no enemies. Everybody liked her and admired her and valued her opinions and sage advice. She was a kind, intelligent, compassionate, generous confidante and a best friend to many people.

Peggy was born to Clell and Phyllis Schwartz in Glendale, Calif., on July 14, 1938. She has one younger brother, Steve Schwartz, who now lives with his wife, Robbie, in Pagosa Springs.

She grew up in San Bernardino, Calif., and graduated from Pacific High School, where she was an honor student and a cheerleader. Peggy enrolled in the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho, where she met her future husband, Bryant Lemon, who graduated the next year in civil engineering. They married in 1958.

She followed her construction engineer husband all over the U.S., offering back-room advice on the building of some of the major projects of the time. In moving from place to place, she made many friends, many of which are close friends to this day. Among the places where the couple lived were Rigby, Idaho; Alexandria, Va.; Boise, Idaho; Round Mountain, Calif. (Pit 6 and 7 Dams on the Pit River); Cape Kennedy, Fla. (NASA’s Launch Complex 39 “Moon Shot” Facility); Batavia, Ill. (Fermi Lab-200 BeV Proton Accelerator); Wilton, Ct. (NY Giants Football Stadium at the Meadowlands, N.J.); Birmingham, Ala. (Bowater Paper Mill in Calhoun, Tenn.); and Albuquerque, N.M. (Intel’s Fab 7, 9 and 11 in Rio Rancho, N.M.).

During these early years, she raised four wonderful and successful children: Christine Lemon Schmidt, of Chandler, Ariz.; and Bill Lemon, Catherine Lemon and Karen Lemon-Gebhardt, all of Albuquerque. She is also the grandmother of five wonderful grandchildren: Patrick and Jacob Lemon, of Albuquerque; Christian and Michael Schmidt, of Santa Maria, Calif., and Chandler, Ariz.; and William Gebhardt, of Albuquerque. She has one niece, Tiffani Schwartz Miller, and two nephews, Darren Schwartz and Douglas Saylor, all residing in California.

Peggy was a businesswoman and an entrepreneur. Besides being a major impetus behind the starting and managing of BRYCON Const. Co. in New Mexico, for which she was secretary/treasurer, she started and operated two other successful businesses. The first was Microwave Cooking, Etc. in Birmingham, Ala. The second was Zia Rentals, a construction equipment rental business in New Mexico. Peggy was a designer/builder/remodeler. Being the eternal “Live Wire” that she was, she designed and construction managed the building of a beautiful home in Corrales and a magnificent mountain forest lodge in Pagosa Springs. The latter is known in the family as “Peg’s Mud Mountain Resort.” She had many good times at Mud Mountain. Once she had finished construction, she could not stop thinking of how it might be improved. She was uncanny in her ability to visualize a structure “in the mind’s eye” and see simple improvements and modifications. This resulted in expansion projects for more bedrooms, bathrooms and living spaces and garages. Also, remodels of bedrooms, closets, baths and game rooms. Of course, interior decoration was also a piece of this talent and Peggy was great at it.

Peggy was a world traveler. She arranged trips to South America (Cusco and Machu Picchu in Peru, the Galapagos Islands off Equador, trout fishing in southern Chile and tasting Malbec in Mendoza, Argentina). Just last summer, she cruised the Danube through Eastern Europe. She found grizzlies in Alaska; elephants, lions and rhinos in Africa; whale sharks off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. She roamed the ancient ruins and cathedrals of Italy, Greece and Turkey. She loved the beautiful countryside of France; the fascinating areas of the Alps and Germany. She particularly enjoyed a Hertigruten cruise along the fjords of Norway and north of the Arctic Circle. She took all of her children and their families to Fiji and on a large sailing ship through the Caribbean.

Peggy was into sports. She loved to ski. Her favorite run was the “Wizard” at Santa Fe Ski Area. She was good. She won the N.M. State Championship in the finals of her age group at the Dr. Pepper Race Series held at Angel Fire. Her two favorite teams to watch were the Lady Lobos’ basketball team and the Boise State Broncos football team. She shouted like crazy for both.

A memorial service will be held for all of Peggy’s friends and relatives at the Episcopal Church in Albuquerque on July 17. Specifics of the exact time and arrangements will be announced when finalized. A reception in her honor will also be held on July 17. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be given to the American Lung Association or to a charity of your choice.

Nicholas Daniel Toth the 5th, found peace on June 13, 2015.
He made us parents on December 27, 1995 in Durango, Colo.
Nicky spent 14 years of his life playing baseball, soccer and football, being a Cub Scout, hiking in the mountains and camping with his family. Nicky was a beautiful soul and a loyal friend that made everyone around him shine brighter.
Our son, our brother and our friend will remain in our hearts forever. Nicky is survived by his two greatest fans, his brothers Jackson and Harrison, his parents Nick and Carrie Toth, the love of his life, Miranda D’Ambly, and his loving family and friends.
Nicky’s Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, June 18, 2015 at 2 p.m. at Ono Rosa Restaurant County Road 513 in Glen Gardner, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to please bring your smiles and your joy. Join us by tying a memory to a balloon as we send Nicky off to his next new adventure.
To send condolences please visit www.martinfh.com. Martin Funeral Home, 1761 Route 31, Clinton, NJ 08809.

Benceslado (Ben) Gallegos, 92, joined his wife in heaven on June 12. He was born in Albuquerque, N.M., on May 10, 1923, the oldest of eight children to Manuel Antonio Gallegos and Felipita Torres Gallegos. Ben graduated from Albuquerque High School in 1941. He married Modesta Garcia on June 25, 1942, and they moved to Denver, where he worked for Remington Arms Co. He was inducted into the U.S. Army in March 1943. He served in the European Theater as a field radio operator, technician fifth grade in the 45th Signal Company operating in France, Germany and Belgium and was in the Battle of the Bulge. After completing his tour in the European Theater, he was on a troop ship in route to the South Pacific when the atomic bombs were dropped on Japan.

Following the war, he joined his wife in Albuquerque. He began his career with the U.S. Postal Service and retired as a supervisor in 1980. He enjoyed stone cutting, making jewelry, hunting, fishing and camping, but, most of all, he enjoyed spending time at his cabin in Pagosa Springs.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 64 years, Modesta; infant son, Phillip; his parents; brothers Alfred and Paul Gallegos; sister Theresa De La O; and lifelong friend Max Lucero.

He is survived by five children: Ben Ronald Gallegos and wife Reena, of Los Lunas; Charles LeRoy Gallegos and wife Mary Louise, of Pagosa Springs; Rita Gallegos Logan and husband Mike, of Los Chavez; Patricia G. D’Angelo and husband Mark, of Albuquerque; and Phillip A. Gallegos and spouse Rudy Archibeque, of Edgewood; 10 grandchildren: Greg Gallegos and wife Dolores, of Pagosa Springs; Melissa G. Ybarra and husband Tony, of Rio Rancho; Pamela Machac and husband Gerald, of Bedford, Texas; Fred Gallegos and wife Anna, of Albuquerque; Jason D’Angelo and wife Jeanina, Adam D’Angelo, Derek Logan and fiancée Faith, of Belen; Juliet Labreche and husband Francis, Shanna Therese Sanchez and husband Gilbert, and Trisha Modestine Pillars and husband Marcus, all of Albuquerque. He is also survived by 13 great-grandchildren: Matthew, Michael and Anthony Gallegos, Luis-Miguel, Marco and Sylvianna Ybarra, Krystle Griego, Matthew and Lauryn Machac, Luke Chavez and Zaiah Logan, Sophia and Madeline Labreche; two brothers, Tony and Louie Gallegos; and sisters Agnes Sanchez and Annie Sanchez.

Rosary was recited on Tuesday, June 16, at 6 p.m. at St. Anne’s Catholic Church. Mass was celebrated on Wednesday, June 17, at 9 a.m., also at St. Anne’s Catholic Church. Interment will be Thursday, June 18, at 10:30 a.m. at Santa Fe National Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Greg Gallegos, Fred Gallegos, Jason D’Angelo, Adam D’Angelo, Derek Logan and Anthony Gallegos.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart or American Lung Association. Please visit the online guest book for Ben at www.FrenchFunerals.com.

Friends and family are invited to attend a memorial service for Mary Marcia Farley Thomas, who passed away on Feb. 5, 2015. It will be held on Saturday, June 27, at 2 p.m. at the home place located at 8286 East U.S. 160. Services will be held outside in a tent with a Scattering of the Ashes ceremony to follow the service. Attendees are advised to wear flat shoes suitable for walking on uneven ground.

Janice Kay Newell, 64, went home to be with The Lord on June 3, 2015, at her home in Pagosa Springs. Janice was born on Dec. 28, 1951, in Alhambra, Calif., the daughter of Harold and Betty Iverson.

Janice loved people and animals, and was quick to make friends with both. While still living in California, Janice enjoyed spending time riding her horses, playing Bunco with neighbors and friends, traveling to places like Hawaii, Guam, New Zealand, Australia and Mexico, as well as going country western dancing regularly. She was a professional interior decorator and was very talented in the arts.

After moving to Pagosa Springs, Janice spent her retirement organizing and arranging her home, creating a beautifully decorated space for herself and her pets. She loved to spend time on her patio socializing with neighbors and passersby, both human and canine.

Janice absolutely loved Christmas and outdid herself every year, adorning her home with beautiful decorations. She truly added a spark to everything, and was loved by many. She was often seen around town in the company of her beloved dog, Chiquita.

Janice is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Bassett; son-in-law Darin Bassett; and her three beautiful grandchildren, Donovan, Jaxon and Avery Bassett, of Cedar Park Texas; her sister, Carol Stewart and brother-in-law Lindon Stewart, of Pagosa Springs; and brother Richard Iverson, of California.

There will be a memorial held this afternoon, Thursday, June 18, at 5 p.m. at The View Restaurant here in Pagosa Springs. Tim Sullivan, a favorite of Janice’s, will be playing at 6 p.m. in the main dining room, and we invite those who would like to stay to join us there immediately following the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent in Janice Newell’s name to Humane Society of Pagosa Springs, 465 Cloman Blvd., Pagosa Springs, CO 81147.

In memoriam of Joe Raymond Vialpando — Sunrise: Feb. 29, 1920, sunset: June 14, 2015.

For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down — when we die and leave these bodies — we will have a home in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. We grow weary in our present bodies and we long for the day when we will not be spirits without bodies, but we will put on new heavenly bodies like new clothing. Our dying bodies make us groan and sigh, but it’s not that we want to die and have no bodies at all. We want to slip into our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by everlasting life. 2 Corinthians 5:1-4.

Joe R. Vialpando took his last breath peacefully Sunday, June 14, at 12:45 a.m., as his spouse and daughters kept vigil. He was born on Leap Day, Feb. 29, 1920, making him 23 by this count, but officially 95 years old. Joe Raymond was born in Parkview, N.M., to Maclovio Vialpando and Carolina Valdez. He grew up during the depression era with his sisters, Florence Valdez, Ophelia and Josephine Vialpando. He loved to go to the rodeos, dances and was a great boxer. His nose and front tooth were impacted by his relentless pursuit for fairness and equality at home and abroad.

He served in the Army as an infantryman and a sharp shooter during World War II. While in the Pacific theater, he executed his duty with valor and distinction to return home to his loved ones along with his unit. He returned to marry his high school sweetheart, Cordelia Lister, in Durango, 1945, under the blue moon. He reenlisted in 1949 and traveled abroad.

Every Fourth of July, he would return with his wife and family to Pagosa Springs to attend the local parade and strike his new dancing boots at the rodeo and dance. He’d visit his in-laws, the Listers, in Durango, and pick cherries off the cherry tree into newspaper cones with his son, Richard, and daughters Gail and Donna. He loved eating red, juicy cherries with his children and later his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His wife, Cordelia, unexpectedly died from surgery complications on July 7, 1967. He kept staring at the moon and eventually a star arrived, his second wife, Eustolia Ramirez. Joe married “Tola” in March of 1970 in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. They swayed to the mambo, cha, cha, cha, and slow danced cheek to cheek to his favorite Mexican music with his “Amor.” They had three girls, Hope, Jacqueline Mary and Denise Marie Vialpando.

Joe constructed his new home and merged his two families in Anthony, N.M., where he dwelled for 43 years. In 1997, his star, “Tola” passed away from cancer. He lulled in the wind and enjoyed his trips in the desert and mountains.

He met his third wife, Graciela Govea, dancing and eating out. They loved to go to the casino and racetrack to listen to the Mariachis and dance to the live band or DJ. Graciela and Joe were married for 11 years.

Joe Raymond Vialpando was preceded in death by his two daughters, Donna Rae Fiddie and Hope Esperanza Vialpando; his mother, Carolina Lattin; and father, Maclovio Vialpando and stepfather, Roy Lattin; as well as his two sisters, Florence Madrid and Ophelia Chavez.

When Joe was asked about his service in the military, he’d respond, “I have been in three wars, WWII, Korean War and Vietnam War.” He’d continue to respond to questions for a few minutes about his duties. He loved to smile and talked to everyone.

He is recognized with the following awards: Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Service Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with one bronze service star with arrowhead, World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal with Germany clasp, and WWII Honorable Service lapel button.

Joe Raymond Vialpando, from Pagosa Springs, had a full life filled with joy, tragedy and love. He never was ill and called everyone “fat” if you did not exercise or take care of yourself. Joe walked a lot and he is walking along with Christ, our Savior. We will miss you and love you, Papa Pancho. Released, but not forgotten.

Survived by his wife, Graciela Vialpando; sister Josephine Gallegos Sanchez; children Richard Vialpando, Gail Gilley (spouse Jimmy D. Gilley), Jacqueline Strickland, (spouse Darry Strickland), Denise M. Vialpando (spouse Jaime Alonso Dominguez); grandchildren Wanda Grant, Shane Vialpando, Paige Vialpando, Timothy Jones, Kevin Jones, Raymond Jones, Steven Jones, Jessica Felks, Jimmy A. Gilley, Kayla Murillo, Jonathan Murillo, Haley Murillo; great-grandchildren Allen Hassim, Donna, Jordyn, Jamie, Jacob, Justin,Tiffany, Tony, Nicolas, Khristopher, Brandi, Aaron Jones, Zachary and Cayden Fiddie, Ryan Hoke, Alvis (AJ) Leitimon Hillman III, Daren Luke Hillman, Dequan Thomas, Braylon Gilley, Jamina Gilley and Jamaul Gilley.

Funeral services will be at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, Anthony, N.M., Sunday, July 21, at 7 p.m. Funeral mass will also be at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, on Monday, July 22, at 11 a.m. Father Enrique Lopez will be officiating. Rite of Committal will be at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, El Paso, Texas.  Pallbearers will be Raymond Dale Jones, Darry Strickland, Allen Hassim Jones, Darren Luke Hillman, Jacob Jones, Jaime Dominguez, Alvis (AJ) Leitimon Hillman III.

Nicholas Daniel Toth V found peace on June 13.

He made us parents on Dec. 27, 1995, in Durango, Colo.

Nicky spent 14 years of his life playing baseball, soccer and football, being a Cub Scout, hiking in the mountains and camping with his family. Nicky was a beautiful soul and a loyal friend who made everyone around him shine brighter.

Our son, our brother and our friend will remain in our hearts forever. Nicky is survived by his two greatest fans, his brothers, Jackson and Harrison; his parents, Nick and Carrie Toth; the love of his life, Miranda D’Ambly; and his loving family and friends.

Nicky’s Celebration of Life was held on Thursday, June 18, in Glen Gardner, N.J.

To send condolences, please visit www.martinfh.com. Martin Funeral Home, 1761 Route 31, Clinton, NJ 08809.

James Donald Bennett, known by most as Jimmy, went to be with his Lord on June 6, after losing a courageous battle for life to cancer.

Born Dec. 10, 1938, in Pagosa Springs, to Donald and Mabel Bennett, he was grandson to Dutch Henry and Ida Born (Born’s Lake) and John and Inez Bennett.

His youth was spent hunting, fishing and working in the wilds of Pagosa Country. He graduated from Pagosa Springs High School in 1957 and attended Fort Lewis College.

Forty-two years of government service began with summers spent on a survey crew with the U.S. Forest Service surveying roads still in use today in the San Juan National Forest. He spent an enlistment in the Army at Fort Benning, Ga., in an artillery unit where he was deployed to Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He spent the rest of his government service in the employment of the Department of Interior working for the USGS Department of Water Resources.

He resided in Durango on his grandparent’s place on Junction Creek for the past 57 years. He is survived by a son, Pat (Robyn) Bennett, of Pagosa Springs; a daughter, Sheila Witmer, of Durango; a son, Timothy Bennett, of Crosswell, Ore.; five grandchildren — Tristen Bennett, Kaycee Bennett, Andrew Witmer, Ashley Witmer and TJ Bennett; sister Lucille Alley, sister Donna (Charles) Formwalt, of Pagosa Springs; nieces Pam (Richard) Strunk, Melinda (Don) Volger, Jana Candelaria; nephew Bruce Alley; and their families.

At Jimmy’s request, a cremation was given and he will be laid to rest in a private family service in the coming days. He was loved and will be missed by family and friends. Our memories only partially fill the hole he left in our hearts.

Glenn Wilton Headrick, 88, with his loving family at his bedside, left us to be with his Lord and Savior on June 25 after suffering a stroke. Glenn was born Jan. 13, 1927, in Byers, Kan., to Kermit E. Headrick and Ethel Hughes Headrick.

Glenn grew up and went to school in Mullinville, Kan., where he graduated from Mullinville High School in 1945, where he was a member of his high school basketball team. Growing up in a small town provided him with the opportunity to experience all the fun and wonderful friendships that created memories for his lifetime and where he met his one and only lifelong love, Joann Harmon. His father and Uncle Tiny contributed to the development of his character and work ethic that he shared with his daughters and grandchildren throughout his life.

Upon graduation from high school, he became employed by Northern Natural Gas, where he worked from 1945 to 1986. He started in general maintenance and worked his way up to a district manager position in the Fort Stockton area. During his time with Northern Natural, he and his family lived in Hobbs, N.M.; Andrews, Texas; Boone, Iowa; and San Angelo, Texas.

Upon retirement in 1986, he and Joann moved to Pagosa Springs, where they enjoyed snow skiing, snowmobiling, fishing, golf, motorcycle riding and square dancing, with springtime RV trips to Texas and Missouri. To add to his many hobbies, he loved flying and was a licensed private pilot. In 1994, they moved back to Texas and lived in San Angelo, Andrews and eventually settled in Blanco close to family.

Glenn was always active in the different churches where they lived and was a lifetime Presbyterian elder. He was a very kind and giving man, always helping people. He was a very talented carpenter, electrician and plumber and always did everything 150 percent. Glenn’s life was blessed with excellent health and he was proud to announce that he took no medication, not even an aspirin.

Thank you to all the friends and family who have said so many prayers on his behalf and supported us all. He was the best husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend anyone could ask for. We will miss him more than words can say, but are comforted knowing that he is in God’s care.

He was preceded in death by his parents and seven siblings, Maxine, Charlene, Bob, Cleta, Ronald, Carol and Eddie.

Glenn is survived by his loving wife of nearly 68 years, Joann Lucille Harmon Headrick; their two daughters, Julie Headrick Osterhout and husband Danny, and Jeanne Torres and husband Mark; brother Jerry Headrick; sister Peggy McMillan; four grandchildren, Brian Jeffreys, Mandy Jeffreys McWilliams, Missy Neely and Molly Ramon; and by six great-grandchildren: Jeffrey, Presley, Grant, Rylee, Chloe and Ella. Glenn will also be missed by many nieces, nephews and other relatives and dear friends.

A memorial service celebrating and honoring Glenn’s life will be held at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 2, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 703 Main St., Blanco, Texas, with Pastor Dr. Bobby Leggett officiating. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Christopher House Austin, 2820 MLK, Jr. Blvd., Austin, TX 78702.

On Sunday, June 21, the world became a dull place with the unexpected passing of a beautiful soul. Denise Ann Gajarski-Daves left our world and started a new adventure on the other side.

In every breath Denise took, there was love and devotion to her family. She was a woman of many talents, such as horseback riding/training, drawing, crafts of many sorts including making her own jewelry, being the “thrift store shopping queen,” goulash and lasagna-making and was the “quarters champion” of the family. She taught her kids how to stand their ground, fix their cars and live life to the fullest. She served honorably in the United States Navy as a jet mechanic, loved animals and had a love for adventure.

Denise will get to see her father, Douglas Azar, once again. She leaves behind her “other half,” Alan D. Daves; four children: Thomas, Morgan (Caren Gajarski), Ceara and Chance; her mother, Wini Zebley; and cousins Christoper Zebley, Miranda Jackson Simmons, Mikela and Owen Zebley. She is also survived by her grandchildren, who were the highlight of days: Hailey, Aubree and Katelynn.

Denise brought life, color and happiness to the lives of those she loved. To her children, she was a remarkable person who was always there through thick and thin. To her husband, Alan, she was his best friend and the love of his life. We love you, Mom.

William (Bill) Brant passed away peacefully June 25 with family by his side.

Bill was born in Edmond, Okla., on Dec. 17, 1925, to parents Ruby and John Brant. Bill was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Vane and Joe; his sister, Margaret and wife Beverly. He is survived by his older brother, Bob; son Bill Jr. (Bodh); and daughters Nancy (Joe) Drake and Gayle Healy. Bill is also survived by seven grandchildren: Michelle Brant, Matthew (Seon) Brant, Megan (Scarr) Pimentel, Adam Drake, Samantha Drake, Chad (Sondra) Healy and Ryan Healy. Bill has one great-grandson, Jaidyn Johnson.

Bill was raised in the rural setting of Oklahoma, helping his family with planting crops and raising livestock. After completing graduation from high school, Bill enlisted in the Navy, following in the footsteps of his father and brothers. Bill was part of the Pacific fleet during World War II, but also traveled the world, including passage through the Panama Canal, one of his favorite memories.

As the war came to an end, Bill took advantage of the GI Bill and enrolled at Oklahoma State University, where he studied animal husbandry and agriculture economics. One Halloween night on campus, he met a young girl out with friends. Even though he got her name wrong, he couldn’t forget that pretty face and began pursuing her. Eventually, Bill was able to convince Beverly Fox to marry him. Bill and Beverly started their family while Bill completed his bachelor degree. He began his career as assistant county agent in northern Oklahoma, but continued his education to achieve his master’s degree. Bill moved his family to Enid, Okla., to take the position of county agent of Garfield County. Eventually, Bill would seek studies to receive his doctorate degree, once again moving his family, this time to Stillwater, Okla. Bill received his doctorate in May of 1967 and became a professor there at Oklahoma State University.

Bill and Beverly soon moved to Blacksburg, Va., where he taught agricultural economics at Virginia Tech.

Upon retirement, Bill and Beverly returned to Enid, Okla., where Bill set up a farm program to help local farmers. Bill and Beverly did a fair amount of traveling, including many trips to exotic locations to visit their son and his family, as well as not-so-exotic trips to camp out with their daughter, Nancy, and her family. Gayle and her family lived nearby and got the best of their time.

Bill and Beverly had an interest to try one more adventure; that was to move to Colorado where two of their children lived. Unfortunately, Beverly passed away unexpectedly in December 2010. Bill decided to honor that dream and moved to Pagosa Springs the following year. Again, misfortune came and Bill found himself facedown on an icy road, suffering injury to his brain. Bill was able to remain in Pagosa Springs, but only under the care of an extended care facility. He was able to find accommodations at Pine Ridge assisted living facility. There Bill met new friends, both residents and staff. He continued to enjoy the company of family, often joining them in cutting and splitting wood, sitting on the deck and playing with his dog, Dee Dee. He especially loved the view of the mountains.

Bill will be remembered for his country gentleman personality, his wit and humor, as well as his compassion for others. No greater gift than to love and be loved by so many.

David Edwin Bohl Jr., 51, passed away suddenly on June 24.

Dave Jr. was a profound silversmith and proprietor of “Valley of the Bear” Jewelry Company for which he was able to pursue his passion in designing custom pieces.

He was born on July 3, 1963, in Wurzburg, Germany, where his father was stationed with the U.S. Army. He went to school in Ozark, Ala., and Jacksonville, Ala., graduating from Gateway High School in Aurora, Colo.

David enjoyed cooking gourmet meals, camping and canoeing, traveling, hunting and fishing with “Pops,” David E. Bohl Sr. When his parents moved to Lake Havasu City, Ariz., in 2008, he came for a visit and fell in love with Lake Havasu, moving there immediately thereafter. He never met a stranger that did not quickly become a friend. He was always the life of the party and his vibrant personality was quick to set the mood of the room. He was a Dale Earnhardt Jr. fan and loved NASCAR racing. Dave Jr. was a past president of the Lake Havasu Art Guild, a member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles and the London Bridge Hackers.

He is survived by his daughter, Brittany Rae, whom he adored; son-in-law Wesly Simonson, of Parker, Colo.; his fiancé, Nancy Haskin; mother and father, Fran and David Bohl Sr.; and sister Barbara Alice Bohl, all of Lake Havasu City; and many loving friends and family.

A memorial service was held at Calvary Baptist Church on Wednesday, July 1.

Thoughts and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com.

Dwayne Wendle Hibbard was born Nov. 19, 1931, in San Francisco to Edwin Wendell and Louise Ragne Hibbard. He passed peacefully with his four children by his side on May 26, 2015, in Pagosa Springs, Colo. He was the third of five children.

On Dec. 1,1948, Dwayne enlisted and served in the Navy, National Guard and then as a reserve in the Army of the United States and was honorably discharged on the March 8, 1957. He married and had four children. He loved to hunt, fish and bowl, and sponsor his children’s pee-wee bowling and baseball teams. He was an honest businessman who was kind, optimistic and always gave you a big smile with a big heart and utmost respect. He was married to the mother of his children for 16 years and his second wife for over 20 years, who he was faithfully with until her passing. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, but especially his surviving four children, step-son, four grandchildren and two step-grandchildren.

To send condolences or receive more information about his celebration of life, please visit www.pagosaspringsfuneralhome.com, 141 N. 14th St. Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, 264-2386.