Mark V. Wells, Sr., 90
Mark Wells of Walsenburg passed away in La Veta on Sept. 25, 2008. He was born on May 15, 1918.
Mark was born in Rouse, Colorado to parents Mary Ellen Weston (Johnny Weston) and William Wells. He was raised east of Walsenburg on a ranch in Turkey Creek. He attended the Turkey Creek School until 8th grade and then went to work for Harry Capps. While working for Harry he lived in a cow camp south of Walsenburg breaking horses, working cattle drives and round ups with his dear friend Harry Willis. When he left there he worked for the Hatchett Cattle Company breaking horses and playing cowboy. Mark spent four years after that in the United States Army in Alaska and Germany serving in WWII. He married Ofelia Ward of La Veta and they made their home on the Wells Ranch east of Walsenburg. While raising cattle on the ranch he also drove school bus for 30 years for Huerfano Re-1 school district. He was an avid wood carver and started carving at the age of six or seven years old. He also loved to paint with his oil paints on canvas. He has won numerous awards and has been featured in many magazines for his wood carving accomplishments.
Mark is preceded in death by his parents, brother Clifford and his loving wife Ofelia Wells. Mark is survived by his children Merle Wells and wife Tonya of La Veta, Mary Norby and husband Ken of Walsenburg, Toni Blomenkamp and her husband Mike of Broadwater, NE and Mark Hearten. He is also survived by his grandchildren Alex, Zachary, Allan, Dustin, Camlin, Calveigh, Steven, Garrett (G-Man), Stephanie, Tonya, Trey and Trevor. Mark is also survived by very special friends Nancy Garcia and Henry Estrada and Nancy’s children Jesse and Joshua who were also grandchildren to him.
A memorial service will be held at 10 am on Thurs. Oct. 2, 2008 at Boies-Ortega Funeral Home located at 115 E. 5th Street, Walsenburg with graveside services at the Wells ranch. A reception will follow at the Eagles Hall on Main Street, immediately following the graveside services. Viewing Wed. Oct. 1, 2008 from 5 pm to 8 pm at Boies-Ortega Funeral Home.
Mark will be missed, dearly, by his friends and family.
