Herman Barnes

Herman Curtis Barnes, better known as “Jack” passed away on February 12, 2021, he was 70 years old. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, February 21, 2021 at 3pm at the La Plata County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall. Due to current conditions, we ask that all COVID-19 guidelines be followed. Masks will be available at the door.

Jack was born in Durango, to John and Edith Barnes on January 2, 1951. According to the Durango Herald, he was the first baby of the New Year in the county. He grew up working on the family ranch outside Ignacio, and graduated from Ignacio High School. He was married to Jeanie Dossey in 1973. The marriage ended after 20 years, and Jack never remarried. He held various jobs during his life, working for companies such as the City of Durango, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, and burgeoning Stoneage Waterjet. He was the 13th employee hired at Stoneage, but by the time of his retirement, the company employed hundreds. Everywhere he worked, he made several lasting friendships. The only thing Jack enjoyed more than ranching was spending countless hours and days watching his children and grandchildren participate in numerous sports and activities.

Jack was preceded in death by his mother and father, as well as his younger sister, Linda. He is survived by his 3 sons: Neil (Eirann) of Ignacio, Rex (Robin) of Bayfield and Todd of Mexico; his grandchildren: Blane, Mikayla, Shelby, Kaden, Deegan, Austyn, and Dakota; brother-in-law, Albert Hoggatt and his children, Charlsie, Johanna, and Marvin of Arizona. Jack is also survived by a large extended family, most of which still live on the family ranch where he grew up.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you consider a donation to the Durango Adult Education Center, which made a tremendous impact on his life.

We ask that those who wish to share anecdotes or stories of Jack, send them to memoriesofjack@yahoo.com, these will be displayed at the gathering and compiled for his children and grandchildren to keep. Anyone who wishes to share their submitted stories will be given an opportunity to share memories at the gathering.