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Obituary Donald “Ray” Ryan

Donald “Ray” Ryan 6-15-1934 ~ 5-23-2015 Donald “Ray” Ryan is survived by his wife of 61 years, Florence (Weeks) Ryan of La Veta; and sister, Anita Henrich of Silver Cliff; children, Don (Theresa) Ryan of Battle Mountain, NV, Ron (Sissy) Ryan of Pueblo West, CO, and Bonnie Robbe of La Veta, CO. He is also survived by grandchildren, Gary (Camery) Ryan, Jimmy (Heather) Robbe, Jessica (Jeremiah) Blaha, Tina Robbe, Candi (AJ) Armstrong, Chrissie Mortimore, Jarrod (Liz) Salmon; and by his great-grandchildren, Andrew Mortimore, Donald Ray and Rebekah Robbe, Celina and Alannah Long, and numerous nieces and nephews. Ray was preceded in death by parents Charles and Zelma (Sparks) Ryan; brother, Vernon; sister, Katherine; son, Robert; and grandson. Chad. Ray was born in Custer County, CO and wore many hats during his long busy life. His work included being a miner, rancher and, for 22 years, the supervisor of the La Veta town maintenance department in which he served the residents above and beyond the requirements of his job. After his retirement in 1999, he continued to selflessly help many with their water problems and kept busy as a bus driver, snow maker, lawn mower, and advisor to many who called upon his years of wisdom and experience. His latest profession was Skunk Killer and Dog Walker. He served his community as a volunteer fire fighter and Fire Chief and as a reserve special town deputy. He also served on the Huerfano County Water Conservancy district and on Francisco Fort Museum boards. The Celebration of Life service will be at 11 am, Friday, May 29, 2015 at Mt. View Baptist Church, Main and Cascade, La Veta, CO.