04/02/1941 - 12/05/2025 John “Dutch” P. Wierenga, 84, passed away on December 5, 2025. He was born on April 2, 1941, in Muskegon, Michigan, and spent his early school years in Denver, Colorado, where he developed the grit and work ethic that would shape the rest of his life. Dutch proudly served in the United States Army from 1960 to 1963 as a Combat Engineer specializing in mine warfare while stationed in Germany and Retired as an SP5. A no-nonsense man through and through, he carried that same straightforward toughness into his career with the White River National Forest. For more than 31 years, based in Glenwood Springs, he worked as a blaster and was responsible for back-country operations, road maintenance, blasting safety training, and installing and maintaining facilities throughout the White River area. He was known for doing things the right way the first time, with a cowboy’s grit and an engineer’s precision. In 1996, he married Margaret Brown and together they built their home and family in Glenwood Springs. After retiring from the Forest Service, Dutch and Margaret moved to Parachute, Colorado, in 1997, where he enjoyed a quieter pace of life though he never fully let go of his cowboy spirit. Dutch’s final wish was to be set free on Windy Point, a place he loved deeply. His family will honor that wish this coming spring. Dutch is survived by his wife, Margret, his daughters, Deborah (Joe Sternberger), Shannon Darlene Muse (Dan), his son Russell Brown (Sandi), four grandchildren, Jesse Gilmer, Hailey Brown, Hunter Brown and Christopher Wierenga. He is also survived by his sister, Peggy Farewell (Rich) of Arvada, CO, and brother Mike Wierenga (Kathy) of Palisade, CO. Dutch lived his life simply, honestly, and exactly the way he wanted. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Lloyd R. Mabrey, 93 of Grand Junction, Colorado, passed away on December 02, 2025 in Hospice Care in Grand Junction.

November 28, 1950 - December 4, 2025 Samuel Teddy Walker, "Ted", passed away on December 4, 2025, of melanoma at the age of 75 in Grand Junction, CO. He was born November 28th, 1950, in Grand Junction, CO to Samuel and Ramona Walker. He married Rebecca Meuret Adams on February 7, 1992, his first marriage was to Lynn Rickstrew 1980. He graduated from Palisade High School in 1969. He then attended Colorado State University earning a degree in biology in 1974. He worked as a teacher for several years, but mostly his career was as a painter. He painted houses and commercial buildings all over the western slope and lived in the grand valley during that time. He then moved to Denver in 1990. He painted in the Denver/Boulder until 2024. He moved back to Grand Junction in 2024. He loved hiking, mountain biking, skiing, snowshoeing, and fishing. He loved the outdoors. He participated in more than 100 races. He loved to compete. He spent many happy hours hiking and biking with Rebecca. He loved taking his grandkids hiking in the mountains, he taught them to love the outdoors as much as he did. One of his greatest joys was spending time with them. He is survived by his wife Rebecca and his sons Joshua Adams (Demetria), Keegan Walker, Max Adams (Schuyler), and grandchildren Jerricho, Ryan, Cheyanne, Kal-El and Pyper. He was preceded in death by parents Sam and Ramona Walker and sister Carol Shelton. His memorial service will be held at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary & Crematory in Grand Junction on January 6, 2025 at 11:00. Ted loved his life and fought hard to keep it.

September 26, 1966 - December 6, 2025 Julie Ann Armbruster, born on September 26, 1966, in Nebraska City, Nebraska, tragically passed away on December 6, 2025, in Grand Junction, Colorado. Julie graduated from the University of Nebraska Lincoln and was a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. At the university she met her husband, David, who she was married to for nearly 38 years. Julie devoted herself to nurturing the minds and hearts of children as an elementary school teacher. Her 30-year career culminated at Tope Elementary in Grand Junction. Julie was not just a teacher, but a beloved mentor and was admired by her students. Recognized as the life of the party, her ability to light up any room was unparalleled; she was a genuine social butterfly, eager to get to know everyone and anyone. She was known for her stylish demeanor. Those who knew Julie often marveled at her selflessness, as she dedicated time to help and care for others without hesitation. She had a zest for life, enjoying activities such as riding e-bikes, golfing, attending concerts, and trying new food with her husband. Julie was also known for her passion for walking, interior decorating, swimnastics, dancing, shopping, reading, and spending quality time with her friends and sisters. Julie is survived by her husband, David Armbruster; son, Daniel Armbruster; daughter, Morgan Armbruster; twin sister, Jill Parr; sister, Jeana Slagle; and father, David Woods. She was preceded in death by her mother, Kristina "Kriste" Woods; mother-in-law, Carole Lou Armbruster; father-in-law, Daniel J. Armbruster; and sister-in-law, Anne Garrett. Julie radiated warmth and kindness throughout her life. She will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know her. A Funeral Mass will be held on December 15, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Grand Junction, CO. Memorials can be made payable to Tope Elementary School to be used for a legacy garden and outdoor classroom in memory of Julie Armbruster.

August 1, 1973 - November 17, 2025 Seth the beloved son of Janet (Keller) Mattivi was born in Alamosa, Colorado and adopted by Darrel in 1983. Upon graduating from Palisade High School in 1991 Seth proudly served in the US Army from 1991 - 1999. There he met his future wife, Catherine Capel, marrying in 1993. They welcomed their daughter, Desiree Shyann in 1994 and enjoyed traveling Europe during Seth’s military service. After leaving the Army, in 1999 they purchased the Crystal Cafe in Grand Junction, Colorado where Seth showcased his culinary talents for eight years. Later, he transitioned to a career in oil and gas. In September 2023, Seth was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. He fought hard against the illness but passed away on November 17, 2025, at Hope Hospice in Cape Coral, Florida. Seth is survived by his wife Catherine; daughter Desiree Mattivi-Ross; son in law Drew Ross; parents Janet and Darrel Mattivi; and step-sisters Rebecca Mattivi and Sarah Beagle of Grand Junction Colorado. The family held a private celebration of life to honor Seth’s memory. He will be remembered as a devoted father and loving husband. Leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him. Mullins Memorial Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Cape Coral, is entrusted with final care.

December 13, 1932 - December 5, 2025 Alfred, a lifetime resident of Mesa, passed away peacefully in his own home of natural causes on December 5, 2025 at the age of 92. Alfred was born December 13, 1932 in Mesa, Colorado to Glen Hoyt and Elnora Mayme Bevan Carver. He was the fifth generation of his family to live in Mesa County. Alfred grew up on his family's ranch and farm, north of Mesa. He attended the Mesa school from first grade until graduation from High School in 1951. He attended Mesa State College one year and was drafted for the Korean war. His heart murmur left him classified as 4F, so he wasn't allowed to serve. He married his high school sweetheart Nona Kelley Grubbs at Alexander Baptist Church, Alexander, Arkansas on January 18, 1953. They returned to Mesa after Nona graduated in May to work on the Barnard Ranch on Spring Creek. He and Nona acquired the Doug and Myrtle Harris potato farm north of his parents dairy in 1955. Alfred worked construction for ten years with Gardner Denver, Elam and others at various locations in Colorado and New Mexico. In 1966, Glen hesitantly sold the dairy to Alfred and Nona. Ben J. Nichols convinced Glen to let Alfred try his hand at the operation, even though Glen was losing $5,000 annually. Through four major changes, Alfred turned the dairy so that it tripled production in two years. He endured having his right thumb ripped off of his hand and reattached by Doc Ziegel and having his neck broken and then fused together (C4 & C5) two years later. In 1972, he and Nona received and accepted an offer to sell the dairy herd in total. For the next five years, he managed the office of the Fruita Consumer Co-op in Collbran and raised beef on the farm. In 1977, they sold to Ute Water retaining two acres where they had a new home built. He said he was retired, but not really. They traveled to Europe, Alaska and across the lower 48. He got his pilot license and bought a 172 Cessna, with it he made free transport for pastors and missionaries besides family and friends. He and Nona joined the Western Slope GoldWing Road Riders motorcycle club and made more friends. Alfred served at the Grand Mesa Baptist Camp, the Collbran Hospital Board and the Molina Baptist Church. He also worked two summers at Camp Woody Island, Kodiak, Alaska. Most important to Alfred was his faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Alfred was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Richard G. Carver. Survivors in addition to Nona include one brother, Howard (Anita); two sons Larry (Jensy) of Glenwood Springs, Darrell (Missy) of Santa Barbara; 3 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Memorial donations may be made to Grand Mesa Baptist Camp, P.O. Box 40, Molina, CO 81646 Molina Baptist Church, P.O. Box 70, Molina, CO 81646 HopeWest Hospice, 3090 N. 12th Street, Grand Junction, CO 81506 There will be a memorial service held at the Molina Baptist Church, 53039 KE Rd, Molina, CO 81646 on Friday, December 26, 2025 at 4pm with potluck dinner immediately following. If you would like, please send written, audio or video of your best story of Alfred to [email protected] before December 18th and a memory video and book will be created. We will live-stream the service and share that link with those interested. Please email [email protected] to receive a link via email the morning of the 26th.

Russell Conner, 85 of Palisade, Colorado, passed away peacefully on December 01, 2025 in his home in Grand Junction. Online condolences at www.brownscremationservice.com

April 23, 1931- November 21, 2025 From the day she was born in a log cabin in Rust, Michigan on April 23, 1931 and for her entire life she was always an angel. She is survived by her 7 children, David Lee (Mary) Kukuk, Richard Irwin Kukuk, Sandra Sue (Steven) Wright, Brian Curtis (Rebecca) Kukuk, Gerrianne (Shannon) Hudson, Sherrie Lynn (Todd) McKay, Nancy Denise (Robert) Black, 13 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. She donated her body to Science Care and her remains will be laid to rest in Hillman, Michigan. Celebration of life will be held at Messiah Lutheran Church in Grand Junction, Colorado on December 20, 2025 at 11am. In Lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be sent to Hope West Hospice of Grand Junction, Colorado.

July 5, 1928 - November 21, 2025 Delores Helen Prinster, born on July 5, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2025, in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. She was 97 years old. Delores was the daughter of Helen and Joseph Justin and grew up in a home rooted in faith and family. She was raised as a Roman Catholic in Chicago, where her parents immigrated to from Croatia. In her early twenties, she was hired as one of the first Zephyrettes on the California Zephyr, traveling from Chicago to San Francisco through Colorado. It was on the train where she met her future husband, Teo Prinster, as he traveled back and forth from Grand Junction to Salt Lake City as a college student. Delores remained devoted to her Catholic faith throughout her life. She was a longtime member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Grand Junction and later became an active member of St. Ann's Parish when she moved to Palisade, Colorado. She spent her final years at Roaring Fork Senior Living in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. A woman of deep compassion and service, Delores dedicated much of her time to helping others. She volunteered at Grand Valley Catholic Outreach and the Day Center, where she offered support to those in need with quiet dignity and kindness. Her love for the arts led her to contribute her time to the Art Center of Western Colorado, where she supported creative expression within her community. Her commitment to St. Ann's Catholic Church extended beyond worship - she gave generously of her time and spirit to support its many ministries. Family was at the heart of Delores's life. She found great joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her warmth and presence were a constant source of comfort and strength to those around her. Delores is survived by her sister, Helen J. Webb; her five children - Nick Prinster, Ceyl Prinster, Sandi Griffin, Mike Prinster and Dave Prinster; ten grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren who brought light into her later years. She was preceded in death by her parents, Helen and Joseph Justin, and her sister Cecilia. Funeral and burial arrangements have not been decided. Donations in her honor may be made to Grand Valley Catholic Outreach. May Delores's memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.

8.11.1954 - 12.2.2025 Katheleen "Kathy" Bishop passed away peacefully on December 2, 2025, with her loving husband by her side. She is survived by her husband, Bruce, her children, Jeff and Becky, and her three grandchildren, Parker, Gavin, and Kennadee. Kathy was known for her outspoken personality, quick wit, and genuine love of life. She fiercely cherished her family and created a home grounded in love, resilience, and humor. Her presence brought energy and honesty wherever she went, and her absence leaves a space that can't be filled. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

June 1, 1931 - October 7, 2025 Margaret Ellen (Haefner) Palo passed away suddenly and peacefully on October 7, 2025, at age 94 while residing at Larchwood Inns in Grand Junction. Margaret was born on June 1, 1931, to Earl Wesley Haefner, Sr., and Clara Anna (Brandt) Haefner in Ida Grove, Iowa, where her father operated a Ford Motor Dealership. She lived there until the age of five, when her father went to work for the Chrysler Corporation and the family moved to El Paso, Texas, where they lived for several months. From 1937 to 1939, they lived in Davenport, Iowa. They then moved to Dayton, Ohio, where Margaret attended 3rd through 5th grade at Smith Elementary School in the suburb of Oakwood. From 1942 to 1945, she attended Junior High School in Postville, Iowa, where she lived with her mother and brother while her father served in the United States Army at Fort Crook, Nebraska, during WWII. After the war ended, they moved back to Dayton, Ohio, where she graduated from Oakwood High School in 1949.Margaret attended DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, for her freshman and sophomore college years. There she was initiated into Delta Delta Delta Sorority in 1950. In the fall of 1951, she transferred to the University of Colorado in Boulder, from which she received a BA in Elementary Education in 1953. During the first semester of her senior year, she was a Dorm Director in Farrand Hall. On December 19, 1952, she married Ensign David Bryceon Palo at St. John's Episcopal Church in Boulder. During the years David served in the US Navy, the couple lived in Long Beach, CA, Yorktown, VA, Panama City, FL, Alexandria, VA, Tacoma, WA, and back to Long Beach from October, 1954 until June, 1956, when David completed his tour of duty. Their first son Bryce was born at Bethesda Naval Hospital in Maryland in 1954. From 1956 to 1959 they lived in Boulder, CO while David attended Law School at the University of Colorado. Their children, James Wesley and Mary Elizabeth, were born during that time. In July, 1959, the family moved to Grand Junction after David was offered a position with the law firm of Adams, Heckman, Traylor and Ela. During her younger years, Margaret taught briefly for Mesa County Valley School District 51 as a classroom, homebound, and substitute teacher, and she was active in the League of Women Voters, and the Reviewers Book Group. In 1976, Margaret enrolled at Mesa College, where she eventually earned a BS in Career Counseling. At the end of 1983, her husband and son opened a family law practice, and she spent the next nine years working there as a legal secretary. She was a member of St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, Chapter CY of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, The Compassionate Friends, and HEARTBEAT/Survivors After Suicide support groups. She played an instrumental role in the founding of both support groups. In earlier years she enjoyed sewing, knitting, needlecraft, and bridge. She was an avid skier and reader and enjoyed traveling and playing tennis. She was preceded in death by her son James Wesley (Jim) Palo in 1978, her parents, her brother, Earl Wesley Haefner, Jr., and her husband David, who died in 1999. She is survived by her son, Bryce Palo (Laura Carlson), daughter, Mary Beth Palo, granddaughter Heather (Kent) Knavel, great granddaughters, Solara and Aetheria Knavel, step-grandsons Nevin and Anders Carlson, nieces Karen Haefner and Melanie Glen of Dundee, Scotland, and grandnephews, Logan, Bryce and Elliot Glen of Dundee, Scotland. Margaret touched and enriched countless lives during her 94 years and she will be greatly missed by her loving family and many, many friends. A memorial service will be held at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, 3888 27-1/2 Road, Grand Junction, CO 81506, on Saturday December 20, 2025, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, The Compassionate Friends, P. O. Box 4314, Grand Junction, CO 81502, HEARTBEAT/Grand Junction, 2551 Mayfair Drive, Grand Junction, CO 81501, or HopeWest, 3090 N. 12th Street, Grand Junction, CO 81506.

Steve Mabie, 72 of Grand Junction, Colorado, passed away on December 03, 2025 at HopeWest Hospice in Grand Junction, CO. A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held Saturday December 20, 2025 from 12:00-2:00pm at The Grand Valley Oasis Venue, Grand Junction, CO. Online condolences at https://www.brownscremationservice.com/obituaries/steven-mabie