Joe T. Herrera, 91, of Durango, passed away Friday March 3, 2017, at home surrounded by his family.
Joe was born October 31, 1925 in Marvel, Colorado to Fernando and Mary Herrera. He married Peggy Zink on July 3, 1954 in Gallup, New Mexico. He was a veteran of the US Army and was stationed in Japan during the Korean War. Joe was also a jack of many trades and performed several jobs throughout his life. He was a welder and worked at the mines in Silverton, he tended to cows and sheep, served as a heavy equipment operator, a maintenance man, milk delivery man, and a hunting packer. What he enjoyed most was spending time with his horses and mules; dancing to his favorite band, The High Rollers; spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren; and going fishing, camping, and hunting with family and friends. He was even late to his own 80th birthday party because he was packing out an elk after a hunt.
He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Peggy; his children Mary Jo Herrera, Margaret (Errol) Conklin, Martha Herrera, and Andrew (Jenẽ) Herrera; his grandchildren, Scott (Jessica) Conklin, Jessica (Jon) Hosey, Levi (Melissa) Conklin, Lindsey (Rich) Herrera, Michelle (Kris) Gard, and JoePaul Herrera; great-grandchildren, Makenzie, Liam, and Logan Conklin; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Paul Herrera; sister, Irene Jacquez; and great-grandson Jacob Conklin.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial will be held on Friday, March 17th at 11:00 at the Waterfall Ranch celebration barn, 4166 County Road 203. Lunch will be served immediately following the service.