David William Brinton, born Nov. 7, 1954, died on Dec. 15 at his home in Pagosa Springs. He was 62. The six-month diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma quickly led the hospice nurse to be cared for by his family in his home with the help of Hospice.

David was born in Libby, Mont., to Gerald and Lois Brinton. The family moved to Pagosa Springs Jan. 1, 1970, and managed Hidden Valley Ranch. David graduated from Pagosa Springs High School in 1973. He worked as an offshore welder in the North Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, and then went to trade school in Boulder, Colo., and found a lifelong trade in auto body work. In 1993, he went back to school, finding his true calling as a registered nurse and traveling Hospice provider in Oregon, California and Colorado, all the while calling Pagosa Springs home.

On Oct. 25, 1980, he married the love of his life, Dorothy (Forrest) Brinton. The two raised four amazing children in the last 36 years: Grace (Jesse) Schmidt, Luke (Katrina) Brinton, Paul (Brisa) Brinton and Mary (Nathan) Rambo. He treasured his time as Papa to Preston, Amelia, Eva, Shayla, Chael, Haven, Henry and Olivia.

Other than working as a hospice nurse, David enjoyed rough-housing with his grandkids, taking rides in the mountains, spending time at home with his family, working on his cars and rooting for the Denver Broncos.

David is survived by his wife of 36 years, Dorothy; his four children and their spouses; and eight grandchildren; his mom, Lois Brinton; his siblings, Scott (Marjorie) Brinton, Elizabeth (Freddie) Martinez, Kathryn (Mark) Young, and Sara Wilton Brinton. He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald Brinton, his infant twin sister, Sarah Jane, and nephew Christopher Young.

David lived and died in peace, based on his relationship with Jesus Christ, knowing we will join him someday in heaven. Thank you, David, for your love — as a great son, brother, husband, father, papa and friend, we will keep your memory alive in every season until we meet again.

There will be a memorial service for David on Dec. 23 at 2 p.m. at the CrossRoad Church on Park Avenue, next to the rec center. After the service, coffee and cookies will be served at the Brinton home on South 7th Street.

In lieu of flowers, David asked that you contribute to a charity or do something kind for somebody in need. Two of David’s favorite charities are: (1) Among The Least, Mark and Lisa Hauger, P.O. Box 3543, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 (or can be sent to Restoration Fellowship Kenya, 264 Village Drive, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147) and (2) Wycliffe Bible Translators, John and Suzanne Hatton, https://www.wycliffe.org/partner/4179FE. (or send to Wycliffe Bible Translators, P.O. Box 62820, Orlando, FL 32862-8200, with a note saying to be used for the work of John and Suzanne Hatton, Acct. No. 357596.)

The family wishes to express our thankfulness and gratitude at the support of the community at this time of loss.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Feliz Navidad. Para: mi hija: Kris, Tina Martinez y: mi esposo: Mariano Echavarria, con todo carino.

Violet Echavarria

Follow these topics: Obituaries

David William Brinton, born Nov. 7, 1954, died on Dec. 15 at his home in Pagosa Springs. He was 62. The six-month diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma quickly led the hospice nurse to be cared for by his family in his home with the help of Hospice.

David was born in Libby, Mont., to Gerald and Lois Brinton. The family moved to Pagosa Springs Jan. 1, 1970, and managed Hidden Valley Ranch. David graduated from Pagosa Springs High School in 1973. He worked as an offshore welder in the North Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, and then went to trade school in Boulder, Colo., and found a lifelong trade in auto body work. In 1993, he went back to school, finding his true calling as a registered nurse and traveling Hospice provider in Oregon, California and Colorado, all the while calling Pagosa Springs home.

On Oct. 25, 1980, he married the love of his life, Dorothy (Forrest) Brinton. The two raised four amazing children in the last 36 years: Grace (Jesse) Schmidt, Luke (Katrina) Brinton, Paul (Brisa) Brinton and Mary (Nathan) Rambo. He treasured his time as Papa to Preston, Amelia, Eva, Shayla, Chael, Haven, Henry and Olivia.

Other than working as a hospice nurse, David enjoyed rough-housing with his grandkids, taking rides in the mountains, spending time at home with his family, working on his cars and rooting for the Denver Broncos.

David is survived by his wife of 36 years, Dorothy; his four children and their spouses; and eight grandchildren; his mom, Lois Brinton; his siblings, Scott (Marjorie) Brinton, Elizabeth (Freddie) Martinez, Kathryn (Mark) Young, and Sara Wilton Brinton. He was preceded in death by his father, Gerald Brinton, his infant twin sister, Sarah Jane, and nephew Christopher Young.

David lived and died in peace, based on his relationship with Jesus Christ, knowing we will join him someday in heaven. Thank you, David, for your love — as a great son, brother, husband, father, papa and friend, we will keep your memory alive in every season until we meet again.

There will be a memorial service for David on Dec. 23 at 2 p.m. at the CrossRoad Church on Park Avenue, next to the rec center. After the service, coffee and cookies will be served at the Brinton home on South 7th Street.

In lieu of flowers, David asked that you contribute to a charity or do something kind for somebody in need. Two of David’s favorite charities are: (1) Among The Least, Mark and Lisa Hauger, P.O. Box 3543, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 (or can be sent to Restoration Fellowship Kenya, 264 Village Drive, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147) and (2) Wycliffe Bible Translators, John and Suzanne Hatton, https://www.wycliffe.org/partner/4179FE. (or send to Wycliffe Bible Translators, P.O. Box 62820, Orlando, FL 32862-8200, with a note saying to be used for the work of John and Suzanne Hatton, Acct. No. 357596.)

The family wishes to express our thankfulness and gratitude at the support of the community at this time of loss.

Follow these topics: Obituaries, Updates

Tom Seifert passed away on his 83rd birthday, Dec. 30, 2016, which he celebrated with his wife, Evelyn, family and friends.

He is survived by: his wife, Evelyn; son Tomas Seifert; daughter Patricia Ann Burton; stepson Troy Ray; stepdaughter Julia Pitts; grandchildren; great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, Jan. 5, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Hood Mortuary Chapel, 1261 E. 3rd Ave., Durango.

There will be a service on Jan. 6 at 11 a.m. at the Allison Community Presbyterian Church, with burial to follow at the Allison-Tiffany Cemetery.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Longtime resident of Pagosa Springs, Dr. William (Rex) Shurtleff, passed away at his home on Sunday, Jan. 8. Rex was born on Feb. 6, 1941, in Cleveland, Ohio. His father was in the military, so Rex grew up as a military brat and lived in many countries around the world. His family finally settled in Albuquerque when Rex was 17 and he spent a large part of his life there. He graduated from the University of New Mexico with a Ph.D. in engineering and worked for Sandia Laboratory for 35 years in scientific research and development. He spent two years at AIMS, OH as the founder and director of the Aging Aircraft Program for the FAA.

His love of the outdoors was what brought him to Pagosa Springs, where he has lived for the past 27 years. He was an avid cross-country skier, backpacker, and road and mountain biker. He was a longtime volunteer at the animal humane society, Upper San Juan Search and Rescue and the U.S. Forest Service. He was also a founder and volunteer of the Chama Nordic Club.

Rex is survived by his wife, Ann; his four children: Tracy, Conrad, Lynne and Philip, and their spouses; and seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his grandson, Bradley.

A celebration of Rex’s life will be held at the Community Center on Saturday, Jan. 14, at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Pagosa Springs Humane Society or your local animal humane society.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Longtime resident of Pagosa Springs, Dr. William (Rex) Shurtleff, passed away at his home on Sunday, Jan. 8. Rex was born on Feb. 6, 1941, in Cleveland, Ohio. His father was in the military, so Rex grew up as a military brat and lived in many countries around the world. His family finally settled in Albuquerque when Rex was 17 and he spent a large part of his life there. He graduated from the University of New Mexico with a Ph.D. in engineering and worked for Sandia Laboratory for 35 years in scientific research and development. He spent two years at AIMS, OH as the founder and director of the Aging Aircraft Program for the FAA.

His love of the outdoors was what brought him to Pagosa Springs, where he has lived for the past 27 years. He was an avid cross-country skier, backpacker, and road and mountain biker. He was a longtime volunteer at the animal humane society, Upper San Juan Search and Rescue and the U.S. Forest Service. He was also a founder and volunteer of the Chama Nordic Club.

Rex is survived by his wife, Ann; his four children: Tracy, Conrad, Lynne and Philip, and their spouses; and seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his grandson, Bradley.

A celebration of Rex’s life will be held at the Community Center on Saturday, Jan. 14, at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Pagosa Springs Humane Society or your local animal humane society.

Follow these topics: Obituaries, Updates

Vandana ‘Anna’ Elizabeth Barnard

Vandana “Anna” Elizabeth Barnard, 18, was tragically killed in a car accident on Sunday, Dec. 18, 2016, in South Bend, Ind. She was born July 11, 1998, in New Delhi, India. She is the niece of Dave and Carole Nasralla and beloved cousin of Kayla, Maya, Jonathan and Anja, all of Pagosa Springs.

Anna was a vibrant, energetic young woman who was deeply loved by her family, her friends and her community. She moved from Belgium to the United States in 2012 to attend school in Pagosa Springs for an entire year. She then moved on to Atlanta, then to New York. In 2015, she finally settled in Indiana, where her grandparents, Jim and Betsy Lehman, of Syracuse live, and she attended Bethany Christian High School. As a young student, she was very active in school and community activities, served as a teacher’s aide, and had a passion for sports, particularly soccer. This past fall, she served as captain of the women’s soccer team of Bethany Christian High School and was voted Most Valuable Player. She was also named to the All-Northern Indiana Soccer Conference Team. She also tried her hand at basketball and excelled in the sport because of her athletic abilities and exceptionally good attitude.

Anna faithfully attended Maple City Chapel in Goshen, Ind. She was growing in her Christian faith, was very involved in her church community and had a passion for serving others. In the summer of 2016, she went on her first mission trip ever to Costa Rica and was profoundly affected by the experience. She had planned to explore further options in missions upon her graduation. Anna was loved by so many and will be well-remembered for her warmth, her infectious smile and her ability to engage and connect with people of every age. It is true of Anna that she “knew no stranger.”

Anna is survived by her grandparents, Jim and Betsy Lehman, Syracuse, Ind.; parents Benno and Deanne (Lehman) Barnard and brother Christopher, all of England; aunts Carole (Dave) Nasralla, Pagosa Springs, Priya Lehman, Atlanta, Ga., Renata (Tejia Bakker) Barnard and Marijke Barnard, both of the Netherlands; and uncles Stan (Kathleen) Lehman, Atlanta, Ga., and Jeff (Alison) Lehman, England; as well as numerous cousins.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Willem and Christina Barnard, and an uncle, Karl Lehman.

A memorial service was held for Anna on Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, at Maple City Chapel in Goshen, Ind. It was attended by over 650 people.

In honor of Anna, a scholarship fund has been set up at Bethany Christian Schools in Goshen, Ind., to help enable international students to attend Bethany. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be sent to Bethany Christian Schools, 2904 South Main St., Goshen, IN 46526, with a designation for the Anna Barnard Scholarship Fund.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Patricia Ann McRee passed away Wednesday, Jan. 18, at home in Pagosa Springs, surrounded by family. She was 85 years old.

Patricia was born Dec. 10, 1931, to Sivert Moen and Sybil Elizabeth Whiteside Moen in Kelliher, Minn. She graduated from Albuquerque High in 1950. Patricia married William Fredrick “Fred” McRee in the early 1950s. Fred passed in 1978 and Pat began working for GE. She retired from General Electric in 1995.

Fred and Pat were dedicated to the horse community and following his passing, she continued in that endeavor. She was active in the rodeo and horse community in showing horses, participating in team roping, and served as secretary and time keeper for many rodeo associations and events. She bred, raised and showed many AQHA (American Quarter Horse Association) award winners.

She is survived by her sons, Michael McRee and Timothy (Tracie) McRee; her sisters, Karen Farr and Nancy Jones; grandchildren David, Darin, Kyle, Katelyn and Fredrick “David” McRee; daughter-in-law Teri McRee; and many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her spouse, Fred; her sister, Mary Fischer, and her son, Kevin McRee.

Memorial services will be held in Albuquerque at a later date.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Violet Mae (Vi) De Vore, a longtime resident of Pagosa Springs, passed away peacefully the early morning of Jan. 13 at Hospice of the Valley in Arizona. She was 93. Vi was a wonderful caring wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend.

Vi was born Feb. 11, 1923, in Monte Vista, Colo., to Oscar Edward Anderson and Christine (Kolander) Anderson.

All four of Violet’s grandparents migrated to the United States from Sweden. She grew up on her grandfather Swan Anderson’s homestead.

After graduating from Rio Grande County High School in Monte Vista in 1941, Vi enrolled at Adams State Teachers College in Alamosa. After two years and qualified to teach, she moved to Pagosa Springs in 1943, teaching the second grade. Her first class contained 42 students. Violet taught at Pagosa Springs until 1945, then left during the summer to obtain more schooling. She taught in Center during 1945 and at Alamosa the following year, and in 1948 earned a bachelor’s degree from Adams State.

On June 12, 1947, Vi went to a dance in Pagosa where she met Dick De Vore. Vi and Dick dated all that summer and fall and were married on Thanksgiving Nov. 27, 1947.

Making their home in Pagosa Springs, Vi and Dick had four children: Larry, Marla, Christine and Laure. Vi stayed home as mother until Larry started the first grade in 1955, then she started teaching the third grade. She later taught special education and over the course of three summers, earned a master’s degree in special education from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. Vi retired from teaching in 1984 following a 34-year career.

Violet loved her Pagosa community and was an active member of Rebekah Lodge for 55 years, including serving often as an officer. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi for 50 years. She was a member of the Civic Club, of the School Improvement Community and wrote the 1996 history of the local Methodist Church, of which she was an active member for many, many years. After retirement, Vi enjoyed a trip back east and toured the Statue of Liberty, the fall foliage of New York, went to a Broadway play and got to see many wonderful things. She loved life. She enjoyed doing for others. She crocheted over 100 hearts-and-ruffles afghans for family and friends. She enjoyed bingo and loved taking trips with friends to Sky Ute Casino in Ignacio.

In 2010 Vi and Dick De Vore moved to Phoenix, Ariz., with their daughters, Christine and Laure, in order to be close to their daughter, Marla, and son, Larry, and to help Christine with an illness. Vi missed her home in Pagosa and all her friends there, but family was very important to her and so home was where family was. She treasured the back-and-forth phone calls, cards, letters and visits with all her friends. She was flattered that she had trended on Facebook by some of her former students. She loved teaching.

Vi was very proud to have five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren and was happiest when we were all together. She loved playing the piano. She liked playing cards and games with the family any time. She especially liked Christmas, but made all our times together extra special.

Vi, Mom, Grandma, GGMa was loved and will be missed by all who knew her.

Vi was preceded in death by her parents, three brothers, two sisters, her husband, Dick, her son, Larry, and her daughter, Christine.

She is survived by her sister, Mildred Keck; her daughters, Marla Garza and Laure De Vore, of Phoenix, Ariz.; grandchildren Richard Garza (Libby), Michelle Savage (Eric), all of Phoenix, Ariz.; Renee Liday (Mitchell), of Torrance, Calif.; Danielle Noffsinger (Paul) and Tom De Vore (Staci), all of Greeley, Colo.; great-grandchildren EJ Savage, Allie Savage, Abby Garza, Emma Garza, Violet Liday, Weston Liday, Lia Billheimer, Lily Noffsinger, Liam De Vore and Anderson De Vore; several nieces and nephews and many friends.

A private family celebration of Vi’s life will be held Feb. 18, 2017, at her home in Phoenix, Ariz.

Memorial donations may be sent to: Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014.

To donate online: www.hov.org/donate-now.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Diane Lea Holloway passed away, Thursday, Jan. 19, at home with her husband by her side. A memorial service was held on Wednesday, Jan. 25, . at the Pagosa Springs Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Diane was born on Oct. 3, 1939, in Santa Monica, Calif. She was adopted by George and Fern Matteson in her infancy. She grew up in the Santa Monica area and graduated from school there. Diane spent most of her working life in the title insurance and real estate business.

Diane’s daughter, Lianne, was born in 1959 and currently lives in Venice, Calif.

Diane met James Holloway in 1989 in Sedona, Ariz., and they were married on June 9, 1990, in Prescott, Ariz. Shortly after, they moved to Yucaipa, Calif., where they lived until she retired.

Jim and Diane moved to Pagosa Springs in 2005, where they helped manage the Liberty Theatre. Diane enjoyed “antiquing,” was an avid shopper and was gifted at entertaining and home décor.

She is survived by her husband, James “Jim” Holloway, her daughter, Lianne Gold, and many close friends.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Dorothy Marie Toner, affectionately known as Dottie, of Pagosa Springs, joined her cowboy and lifelong partner, Ed Toner, in heaven on Jan. 18. She was 84. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Jan. 28 at the Community United Methodist Church, 434 Lewis St., Pagosa Springs.

Dorothy was born Oct. 8, 1932, to Lester and Bethel Marie Short in Tulsa, Okla. Her dad was a pharmacist for Walgreen’s and was transferred to various places throughout her childhood. A majority of her life was spent in Amarillo, Texas, and Denver, where she graduated from East High School. She went on to attend college at Colorado A&M (Colorado State University) where she met the love of her life, Ed Toner. Ed and Dorothy both graduated and started their life of world travels and adventures together. Ed was in the Air Force for 24 years. Dorothy’s childhood had prepared her for a life of traveling and Ed provided it. Upon Ed’s retirement from the Air Force, Ed and Dorothy came back to the Upper Piedra.

Dorothy’s passion and dedication was to her husband, family, friends and community. After raising her three children, she had a big hand in raising grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom loved her and will miss her very much. Her loving generosity was expressed through serving the church, her dedication to the causes of women and children around the world, extensive other volunteering and being a bright spot in everyone’s lives. Her hospitality was unlimited, for she knew no strangers. All were welcome and greeted with her smile, love and acceptance. She was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church, where she served on many committees, president of the United Methodist Women local chapter, and district president of the southwest district. She was a member of Daughters of the American Revolution, Homemakers, Eastern Star and the Delta Zeta Sorority.

She is survived by her three children: Rodney Toner (Marquise), of Victorville, Calif., Glen Toner (Linda), of Buckeye, Ariz., and Cynthia Toner, of the Upper Piedra, Pagosa Springs. Dorothy had eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Dorothy is also survived by her sister, Sandy Ellis (Vern), of Torrington, Wyo.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Community United Methodist Food Bank of Pagosa Springs.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

1923-2017

Terese T. (Terry) Hershey, one of America’s most influential conservationists, passed away peacefully on her 94th birthday at her home in Houston. Called a “Force of Nature” by former president and friend George H.W. Bush, Hershey’s impact on the landscape of the United States stretched from the banks of Buffalo Bayou in Houston to every state in the Union.

Terry Hershey was born in Fort Worth, Texas, on Jan. 19, 1922, one of two children of John and Elizabeth Tarlton. She was preceded in death by her brother and a niece. Terry attended Stephens College in Columbia, Mo., and graduated from the University of Texas with a degree in philosophy in 1943. She returned to Fort Worth and established the city’s very first art gallery on the family property which, following her parents’ deaths, she donated to the city of Fort Worth. Today it is known as Wright-Tarlton Park in their names.

In 1958, Terry married Jacob W. Hershey, CEO of American Commercial Barge Lines. For more than a decade, they sailed the Atlantic and Caribbean from Maine to Tobago, ultimately leaving their life on the sea for their beautiful Four Mile Ranch outside of Pagosa Springs and Hershey Ranch at Stonewall in the Texas Hill Country. For years, Terry has supported a well-regarded children’s outdoor education program at Four Mile Ranch in partnership with Audubon Rockies, and with the support of the local Weminuche Audubon Society, which she helped found.

Jake and Terry made their home in Houston along Buffalo Bayou and it was there that her life’s work in defense of the environment began. Shortly after their marriage, the U.S. Congress approved funding for the Army Corps of Engineers to clear all natural vegetation from the banks of the Bayou, straighten its meanders and line it with cement. Incensed at the prospect of the destruction of its natural beauty, with help from oilman George Mitchell, Hershey convinced then-freshman Congressman George H.W. Bush to ask that funding be withdrawn.

From this now legendary conservation victory, Terry Hershey founded numerous organizations dedicated to environmental protection, including the Bayou Preservation Association, Citizens Who Care, The Citizen’s Environmental Coalition, The Park People and Urban Harvest. Additionally, she and Jake founded the Jacob and Terese Hershey Foundation which is largely dedicated to conservation.

Terry Hershey’s dedication and skill was recognized by many elected officials including Houston mayors Kathy Whitmire, Bob Lanier, Lee Brown and Bill White, all of whom appointed her to successive terms on the Houston Parks Board. Gov. Dolph Briscoe appointed Hershey to the Texas Conservation Foundation and Gov. Ann Richards named her the second woman ever to be appointed to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission, considered to be among the most prestigious appointments in state government. She was a founder of the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, along with her friend and ally, Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson.

Not content to confine her great passion and energy to Texas, Terry Hershey was a leader in many national organizations dedicated to parks and the environment, serving as a trustee of the National Recreation and Park Association, The Trust for Public Land, The National Audubon Society, The National Association of Flood Plain Managers and The National Recreation Foundation.

For her lifetime of service to the environment, Hershey received many awards including the prestigious Chevron Conservation Award, the Frances K. Hutchison Award from The Garden Clubs of America, the Cornelius Amory Pugsley Medal from The National Recreation Foundation and many more. She was the first person to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from Houston Wilderness and she was inducted into the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame in 1991. In 2015, Audubon Texas established the Terry Hershey Women in Conservation Awards, which recognize the outstanding contributions to the environment made by women in Texas and support the development of the next generation of women in conservation.

Surely, Terry Hershey’s principal impact was on the landscape, as she literally launched the modern conservation easement movement in Texas that allows private landowners to remain on the land while protecting their property in perpetuity. Thanks largely to her leadership, there are nearly 40 land trusts in Texas preserving private lands across the state and hundreds of thousands of acres protected by conservation easements.

Terry Hershey was preceded in death by her husband, Jake, in 2001. She is survived by cousins Amie Rodnick and Sissy Farenthold, by several generations of Jake’s descendants, her cat Maggie and loving caregivers Janet Spencer and Veronica Garcia.

Donations in Terry’s name may be made to the Weminuche Audubon Society, Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library, Humane Society of Pagosa Springs, San Juan Historical Society, Planned Parenthood or the charity of your choice.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Michael Ybanez went home to the Lord Friday, Jan. 20, in Pagosa Springs. He was 62 years old.

Michael was born Oct. 23, 1954, to Adolpho G. and Ingrid Franciska (Abstreiter) Ybanez in Colorado Springs. Growing up, he lived in Kentucky, Texas and Colorado and at a young age, he served in the U.S. Army. Michael was a master woodcrafter and woodworker. He and Kristi moved to Pagosa and built the home of their dreams and she preceded him in death after 20 years of marriage.

Michael loved all outdoor activities and especially hiking with his family. In addition to his amazing woodworking and carpentry, he was a gifted landscaper, loved to play guitar and worship with his church family.

He is remembered by son Chris (Teresa) Lee; his daughter, Mellane (West) Davies; grandchildren: Katriel, Evan and Avianna Davies, and Alex Lee; brothers Edward (Sue) and George (Kathleen) Ybanez; sister Ramona (Jeff) Singleterry; numerous nephews, nieces, extended family and many friends.

He is reunited in death by his wife, Kristi; his parents; and a brother, Richard Ybanez.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Memorial contributions may be sent to the American Cancer Society.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

1943- 2017

Barbara passed away on Jan. 22, peacefully in her sleep after a long hard fight with COPD and congestive heart failure.

She is survived by her brother, Jim Blackburn, and numerous friends.

Barbara was an educated, “successful woman” in corporate America during the worst of times to be a woman. Most recently, in Pagosa Springs, she owned and operated Blackburn’s Business Bureau, as a public accountant.

Barbara will be missed for her analytical mind, deliciously decadent spirit and overwhelming generosity. She enjoyed music: “jazz her favorite,” great food, hood parties and people in general.

There will be a celebration of life in Pagosa Springs, date and location to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Four Corners Public Radio KUTE-FM 90.1, Ignacio.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Leonardo (Lee Andrew) Payne passed away on Jan. 26 in Truth or Consequences, N.M.

Lee was born and raised in San Luis, Colo., to Lee Payne Sr. and Refugio Bailon on May 18, 1927.

Lee served in the United States Army during World War II and was honorably discharged in 1946. He went to college at Adams State College in Alamosa, Colo., on the GI bill. Lee married Juanita Maye Turner on Nov. 5, 1954. He was a teacher in the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Taos, N.M., and then Brigham City, Utah, until his retirement in Pagosa Springs in 1980.

He loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and skier (charter member of the Grey Wolves Ski Club at Wolf Creek), and he was an artist. He spent many years as a woodcarver. Lee was a true renaissance man, educated and proficient in a wide range of fields. He was an educator of all those he came into contact with. There was never a project too challenging for Lee: from building a replica stagecoach for his children to creating a wood-fired hot tub out of a stock tank and a used hot water heater jacket.

Lee and his wife, Juanita, moved to Truth or Consequences, N.M., in 2005.

Lee is survived by his wife, Juanita Payne, his daughter, Juanalee Park (spouse Dan Park), and Karen Sullivan (spouse Tim Sullivan), five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Lee was preceded in death by his son, Keith Andrew Payne.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Betty Lucille Watkins was called to her eternal home on Monday, Jan. 30. For the last five years, she fought a grim battle with Alzheimer’s disease, but always with her dignity and sweet spirit intact. She was 89 years old.

Betty was born March 17, 1927, in Clarksville, Texas, the youngest child of Carl and Lizzie Phares. The family moved to Carlsbad, N.M., during her high school years, where she graduated in 1945. After high school, she worked as a bookkeeper for the Coca-Cola Bottling Company. One Sunday, sitting at the back of the church, she caught the eye of Jimmy Watkins. On Oct. 1, 1951, James H. and Betty were married in Alamogordo, N.M. They would be married for 53 years, holding hands ‘til the very end.

In June 1953, Jim and Betty, along with Jim’s parents, moved to Pagosa Springs, where, as told by Ray, her father-in-law, “the rivers actually have water in them!” Betty was always by Jim’s side in all of his endeavors, becoming a pioneer lady on the ranch and bookkeeper and partner in their businesses: Wolf Creek Industries, a house log mill, and High Country Lodge, a local motel. She was also the postmaster at Navajo, N.M., when Jim was training members of the Navajo tribe in the art of saw-filing at the new sawmill there. She and Jim became members of First Baptist Church of Pagosa Springs in 1953, serving faithfully throughout the years. Together they raised three children: Paula, Carla and James, who always remember Betty as a devoted mother, always there for them with love and encouragement, and good food on the dinner table every night.

Betty was an avid reader, history buff and patriot, always encouraging her grandchildren to learn about the history of America, and the lives and events of spiritual leaders in her Christian faith. She loved her books and assembled quite an extensive library. Her other great love was children, especially, of course, her grandkids. She played a major part in their lives, always willing to care for, teach, share her faith and love, using her favorite word of endearment, “darlin’.”

Betty is survived by her daughter, Carla Raye Bauer, and husband Paul; son James Lee Watkins and wife Linda; eight grandchildren: Susan (Bob) Williams, Steven (Tina) Parkhurst, Michael (Debbie) Moore, Christy (Stephen) Porter, Jesse (Jennifer) Bauer, Dusty (Kelly) Bauer, Resha (Jeremy) Still and Rachel Watkins; 15 great-grandchildren: Alisha, Justin, Stephanie, Paula, Katie, Brittany, McKenna, Trevor, Jamie, Parker, Raygan, Christian, Bowen, Finleigh and Wesley; and four great-great-grandchildren: Camryn, Averey, Hailey, and Quinn; a sister-in-law, Chessie McBride, along with many nieces and nephews.

Betty was preceded in death by her husband, James Homer Watkins; daughter Paula Ann Finch; her parents, Carl Roy Phares and Lizzie Mae (Phares) Skipworth; brothers Roy Lee Phares and Tom Johnson Phares; and two grandchildren, Megan Watkins and Christopher Lyn Williams.

Dearest Mom/Grandma Betty, we are so grateful to have been a part of your life. Your influence will be felt for generations to come. You are sorely missed, and will live on in our hearts forever.

A time of celebration and remembrance in honor of Betty’s life will be held on Feb. 25 at 11 a.m. at Centerpoint Church in Pagosa Springs.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Trenton Mason Stanley Maddux, 25, died Sunday, Feb. 5, in a snowmobiling accident in Beaver Meadows, Bayfield, Colo. Trent was with a group of friends when the accident occurred near Bayfield. An avid sportsman, Trent loved snowmobiling, motorcycle racing, hunting and fishing.

Born in La Mesa, Calif., Trent moved to Colorado in 1996 and lived with his grandparents, Stanley and Marcella Maddux, of Pagosa Springs, Colo., while his mother, Meegan Maddux-Valdez, finished her nursing program at Trinidad College in Alamosa, Colo.

Trent attended Pagosa Springs schools from 1999, graduating from Pagosa Springs High School in 2010. During his early school years, he was active in 4-H rocketry and animal husbandry programs.

Trent attended high school from 2006 to 2010. While in high school, he was on the school’s wrestling and golf teams. He also participated in the Skills USA Colorado leadership program and won a gold medal. After graduation, he moved to Alamosa, where he attended Trinidad Junior College, and in 2011 earned a certificate in welding.

Trent worked in the family business, Foam Insulation Specialists, alongside his grandfather, Stan.

Trent was known for his kind heart and good soul. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to friends and family alike. He loved hanging out with friends, working on his truck, snowmobiling and motorcycle racing. He would attend motorcycle races in Aztec, N.M., and Alamosa with friends. If you asked him his favorite time of year, he would say winter, and then share stories about snowmobiling in the mountains near Chama, N.M., and at the higher elevations at Wolf Creek, Pagosa Springs.

He also looked forward to fall each year, when he could hunt turkey, elk, deer and bear. He loved fishing any time of the year. Trent was also an animal lover and spoiled his three young dogs: Ruger, Angel and Diamond. He was training them to become hunting dogs.

Surviving are his great-grandmother, Jean Maddux, of Alamosa; his grandparents, Stanley (Marcella) Maddux, of Pagosa Springs, and Mencor and Janet Valdez, of Farmington, N.M.; his mother and step-father — Meegan (Mike) Valdez, of Bayfield, Colo.; his sisters: Marissa (Geoffrey) Danielson, of Ocala, Fla., and Ashley (Cole) Sutak, of Glendale, Ariz.; brothers Kaden and Kyler Valdez, of Bayfield; aunts Brenda (Todd) Viar and Tracy Maddux, of Brookville, Kan.; uncle, Richard (Janice) Johnson, of Woodville, Texas; cousins: Jessica and Miranda Merrill, of Brookville, Kan.; Christina (Lisa) Maddux, of Michigan; and Corey (Elizabeth) Maddux, of Salina, Kan.; and their children, Preston and MacKenzie; and two nephews and one niece, Deegan, Alakai and Bryghton Sutak, of Glendale, Ariz.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday at 9 a.m. in the high school auditorium. Burial will be at the Maddux family plot (Alamosa Cemetery) in Alamosa.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Trenton Mason Stanley Maddux, 25, died Sunday, Feb. 5, in a snowmobiling accident in Beaver Meadows, Bayfield, Colo. Trent was with a group of friends when the accident occurred near Bayfield. An avid sportsman, Trent loved snowmobiling, motorcycle racing, hunting and fishing.

Born in La Mesa, Calif., Trent moved to Colorado in 1996 and lived with his grandparents, Stanley and Marcella Maddux, of Pagosa Springs, Colo., while his mother, Meegan Maddux-Valdez, finished her nursing program at Trinidad College in Alamosa, Colo.

Trent attended Pagosa Springs schools from 1999, graduating from Pagosa Springs High School in 2010. During his early school years, he was active in 4-H rocketry and animal husbandry programs.

Trent attended high school from 2006 to 2010. While in high school, he was on the school’s wrestling and golf teams. He also participated in the Skills USA Colorado leadership program and won a gold medal. After graduation, he moved to Alamosa, where he attended Trinidad Junior College, and in 2011 earned a certificate in welding.

Trent worked in the family business, Foam Insulation Specialists, alongside his grandfather, Stan.

Trent was known for his kind heart and good soul. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to friends and family alike. He loved hanging out with friends, working on his truck, snowmobiling and motorcycle racing. He would attend motorcycle races in Aztec, N.M., and Alamosa with friends. If you asked him his favorite time of year, he would say winter, and then share stories about snowmobiling in the mountains near Chama, N.M., and at the higher elevations at Wolf Creek, Pagosa Springs.

He also looked forward to fall each year, when he could hunt turkey, elk, deer and bear. He loved fishing any time of the year. Trent was also an animal lover and spoiled his three young dogs: Ruger, Angel and Diamond. He was training them to become hunting dogs.

Surviving are his great-grandmother, Jean Maddux, of Alamosa; his grandparents, Stanley (Marcella) Maddux, of Pagosa Springs, and Mencor and Janet Valdez, of Farmington, N.M.; his mother and step-father — Meegan (Mike) Valdez, of Bayfield, Colo.; his sisters: Marissa (Geoffrey) Danielson, of Ocala, Fla., and Ashley (Cole) Sutak, of Glendale, Ariz.; brothers Kaden and Kyler Valdez, of Bayfield; aunts Brenda (Todd) Viar and Tracy Maddux, of Brookville, Kan.; uncle, Richard (Janice) Johnson, of Woodville, Texas; cousins: Jessica and Miranda Merrill, of Brookville, Kan.; Christina (Lisa) Maddux, of Michigan; and Corey (Elizabeth) Maddux, of Salina, Kan.; and their children, Preston and MacKenzie; and two nephews and one niece, Deegan, Alakai and Bryghton Sutak, of Glendale, Ariz.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday at 9 a.m. in the high school auditorium. Burial will be at the Maddux family plot (Alamosa Cemetery) in Alamosa.

Follow these topics: Obituaries, Updates

Veda Jeanette Ortega

1961-2017

Veda went to be with our Lord and Father on February 13, 2017 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She was born on October 27, 1961 in Chama, New Mexico.

Veda loved her family very much. Her family was her life. She loved spending time with her family. She also loved music, karaoke, dancing and she loved to laugh. Roses, angels and saints were some of her favorite things.

She is survived by her husband Robert Ortega, Albuquerque, New Mexico, son Joseph Chavez (Tasha), Albuquerque, New Mexico, daughters Michelle Chavez, (Landon), Albuquerque, New Mexico and Felicia Sedillo (Dario), El Paso, Texas, stepchildren Antonio Ortega, Carlsbad, New Mexico and Michelle V. Ortega, Buffalo, New York. Grandchildren, Landon Johnson, San Diego, California, Xavier and Michael Chavez, Durango, Colorado, Izaac and Mya Veda Howell, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Brothers Tom Young (JoAnn), Gallup, New Mexico, James A. Young Jr., Albuquerque, New Mexico and Charles Young, Las Cruces, New Mexico. Sisters Beverly Johnson, Wanda Candelaria, Sandra Young and Shana Young-Gawdun (Tom) all of Pagosa Springs, Colorado. Numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Veda was preceded in death by her parents James Allen Young Sr. and Alice M. (Montoya) Young. Maternal grandparents, Josefita Montoya Garcia, Eugenio and Glorifica Montoya. Paternal grandparents, George Young and Pablita Perea Young.

A viewing and rosary will be held on Friday, February 17, 2017 from 9-11 a.m. at the Riverside Mortuary, 225 San Mateo, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Reception will be at 1 p.m. at the American Legion Post #72, 5107 Central Ave. NW, Albuquerque, New Mexico.

A memorial service will be held in Pagosa Springs, Colorado at a later date.

Veda was a beautiful woman with a beautiful soul. She was kind hearted and very giving. She always said what was on her mind. Veda will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Follow these topics: Obituaries

Virginia Antonia Gomez passed away Friday, Feb. 17, at home, in peace, surrounded by her loving family. She was 68 years old.

Virginia was born Sept. 22, 1948, to Antonio M. and Irene M. (Chavez) Gomez in Allison, Colo. She grew up in Allison and the surrounding communities, on a ranch. The family then moved to Chromo, continuing the ranch life, and finally to Pagosa Peak Ranch, where she graduated from Pagosa Springs High School. After school, she settled in the town of Pagosa Springs. There, she worked at various restaurants as a waitress and ended her career as assistant manager for the Best Western Lodge for over 20 years. Most importantly, Virginia was a wonderful mother and a caregiver to her parents and sister.

She prided herself on her close relationships with her nieces and nephews, then finally with her daughter and grandchildren. Virginia also enjoyed crocheting and cutting hair.

Virginia is survived by her daughter: Ashley (Michael) Heilhecker; three grandchildren: Ryann, HalliMae and Aspen; and five siblings: Theresa Gomez, Nora Saavedra, Edulia Martinez, Tina Briceno and Sorita Garcia.

She is preceded in death by her parents; two brothers: Joe Gomez and Leroy Gomez; and a sister: Priscilla Martinez.

A memorial Mass will be held on Saturday, Feb. 25, at 10 a.m., at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Pagosa Springs. Following the Mass, there will be a potluck reception next door at the Parish Hall. Later in the spring of 2017, burial will occur at Rosa Cemetery.

Follow these topics: Obituaries