Douglas Gail Benton

A witty spitfire, who never knew a stranger. His sass was unwavering through his last days, with every determined breath; he lived on his terms.

Born on May 12th, 1942, in Cedaredge, Colorado, he was the son of George and Nellie Benton who instilled in him the values of family, respect, and hard work. After marrying his high school sweetheart Jo, he joined the Navy as a damage controlman, stationed in San Diego, CA, and was in the Western Pacific during the Cuban Missile Crisis. After the Navy, Doug built his life in construction with many projects across the Grand Valley and tending to the farm. They spent many years waterskiing at Lake Powell, visiting Mexico, snowmobiling and building their final homestead in Palisade, where he would take the grandkids through the orchards and to Horse Mountain, once chasing a bear on the 4-wheeler, who he was certain was a dog.

His greatest pride was his role of Dad and Grandpa; to them he was a friend, constant and reliable, always there no matter what kind of trouble they had gotten into, and teaching each right from wrong with his strong words but soft heart. All who knew Doug will remember his nickname for each of them, funny sayings and willingness to share a 'rink, amongst his knowledge regarding, well, just about everything.

Doug now joins his parents, George and Nellie, brother Marvin, sister, Wilma and nephew Tiger, who preceded him in death. Doug's memory lives on through Jo Evelyn (Cross), wife of nearly 64 years, his children, Shellie (Butch), Shirley (Dan) and Clay (Therese). His six grandchildren, Spencer, Hannah, Ashley, Sarah, Emily, Nicholas, 8 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild also were a part of the legacy he leaves behind.

Cremation services have already taken place. A potluck will be held Saturday July 5th; friends can visit the family at Jo and Doug's home from noon until the whiskeys gone. His ashes will settle on Horse Mountain July 6th alongside George and Tiger. Let's celebrate his life and what he created for all of us and with all of us; it was truly an honor to know this man. See you down the road, friend.