Wallace John "Wally" Patcheck

Wallace John Patcheck, known to his friends and family as Wally, passed away peacefully at his ranch on April 4, 2025, at the age of 87.

Wally was born on July 21, 1937, in Hesperus, Colorado, to Herman and Louise Patcheck. He attended Thompson Park School through 8th grade and later transferred to Durango High School, where he graduated at the age of 16. After graduation, Wally had the opportunity to pursue a career as a veterinarian, but he chose to stay and work on the family ranch to ensure they wouldn’t lose it. He served in the National Guard for two years.

Wally married Emma Karen Simmons on April 27, 1974, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Durango, Colorado. The couple settled at Valley View Ranch . Together, Wally and Karen raised three children—Holly, Jonathan, and David—while working tirelessly to manage the ranch. Alongside running the ranch, Wally worked for the Division of Water Resources for 22 years, where he made lasting friendships and always found time for a chat.

Wally was a lifelong member of the St. Paul Lutheran Church. Wally was a dedicated member of several community committees and was a beloved figure in the area. He had a special love for the animals on his ranch, particularly calves, foals, and puppies—any “ranch babies.” His passion for ranching and his unwavering dedication to the land and community earned him the title of Cattleman of the Year in 2024. Wally was known for his intelligence, hard work, and sense of humor. He had a nickname for all his grandchildren, lovingly calling them his “rascals” or “skunks.”

Above all, Wally cherished his faith, his family, and his ranch. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Wally is survived by his loving wife, Emma Karen Patcheck; daughter Holly (Jonathan) Butler; sons Jonathan and David (Lacy) Patcheck; grandchildren Lauren, Jake, Audree, Jace, Lucas, Railey, and Landon. He was preceded in death by his father Herman Patcheck; mother Louise Patcheck; brother Robert Patcheck; and sisters Elaine Belger and Lorretta Patcheck.

A service will be held at St. Pauls Lutheran Church, 2611 Junction St., Durango, on Friday, April 11, 2025 at 11:00am.