Eric Byron Jellison, 62, of Durango, Colorado, died on Saturday, June 19, 2021, due to complications of cancer. Eric was a loving husband and father who passed away at home surrounded by loved ones.
Eric was born on August 22, 1958, in Taipei, Taiwan to Donald and Ruth Jellison. He spent his younger years growing up and getting into mischief in both Phoenix, Arizona and Alpine, California. He moved to Durango in 1993. Eric was a licensed Master Plumber who spent many years working for ABC Plumbing and Solid Plumbing & Heating. Eric also ran his own businesses, which included Eric’s Plumbing & Heating, and Animas Plumbing & Heating.
Eric moved to Durango Thanksgiving weekend of 1993. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, off-roading, and playing pool. Spending time with family was an important part of Eric’s life. He also amassed a network of friends that now reaches from both coasts of the United States, all the way to Heaven.
Eric became a family man when he married his wife Kimberly on June 13, 2003. Never a man to do what was expected of him, he and Kimberly decided to get married on Friday the 13th while wearing black. They were able to celebrate their 18-year wedding anniversary only 6 days before Eric’s death. Eric’s most notable role was being a father to both Matthew and Morgan. His boys were the reason he got up every morning, and you can be sure that he is looking down upon them with pride.
Eric was preceded in death by his father, Donald Jellison. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly; two sons: Matthew and Morgan; his mother: Ruth Jellison; his siblings: Monica Carlin, Neal Jellison, Megan Bresee, and Kurt Jellison; 11 nieces and nephews; numerous great-nieces and nephews; as well as many beloved cousins and wonderful friends.
Eric would want to be remembered with love and laughter, not tears. A celebration of his life is tentatively scheduled for July 3, 2021, at Alpine Cemetery in Alpine, California. A memorial service will be held in Durango in the fall. A memorial fund is in the process of being set up at Four Corners Community Bank in Durango to assist the family with everyday needs until they can get grounded.