The Duerst family moved to Evergreen, Colorado in 1967, where Jon attended Wilmot and Parmalee Elementary, Evergreen Junior High and received his GED with Job Core in Trapper Creek, Montana in 1982.
Jon was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 28 years, Marilyn Duerst on November 22, 2019, his dad, Donald Roy Duerst in May 2018, sister, Debra Sue Duerst in 1983 and Shawna Niece, his ex-wife and mother of Isaac “Jake” in 2009.
He is survived by his loving son, Jake Duerst; step-son, Levi Niece; mother, Katherine “Kitty” and her twin sister, Peggy Briles; older sister, Margaret Christensen; Troy (Madison) Allen as well as many more extended family members.
As a child, Jon always had an abundant amount of energy and often got in to mischief. He and his schoolmates would terrorize motorists as they practically dodged cars on old Cliff Road. Jon loved taking things apart and as a little boy he would stay out of trouble as long as he had something to take apart.
Jon loved his job as a Senior Mechanic at the JBS Hide Plants. He talked about this machine and that machine as if they were buddies. He always declared ownership of his work and was very proud and good at it. His expertise will be missed.
Jon loved dogs, especially little Bandit, who died in his arms a few months ago. He also loved his Fords and had a love-hate relationship with his Ford Pinto, that accompanied him for over 10 years. Jon enjoyed listening to Country Western music, especially Willie Nelson, spending time with his family, hiking and camping.
He was easy going, kind and willing to help anyone. He had the ability to stay happy, to laugh at himself and to live life with joy.
His family remembers his huge hugs and open heart. He was never judgmental and was a kind and gentle soul. He was wonderful with children and lived life’s highs and lows and triumphed over adversity.
He will be greatly missed!
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, April 16, 2021 at Stoddard Funeral Home, 3205 W. 28th St., Greeley. Please visit www.StoddardSunset.com to share your condolences and memories of Jonathan with his family.
Memorials in Jon's name are suggested to benefit the Weld County Humane Society, the Guadalupe Community Shelter and Focus on the Family Ministries.
