Don Freemyer succumbed to an insidious and rare form of motor neuron disease known as Progressive Muscular Atrophy on February 23, 2018 in Durango, Colorado at the age of 76.
Don was born Norman Don Freemyer on March 7, 1941, in Benkelman, Nebraska, the son of a share cropper. Growing up in Las Animas, CO, if you couldn't find Don in the fields working on the family farm, you'd find him in other fields playing football, or on the court as a member of the basketball team that won the State Championship his senior year.
He attended Colorado State University on a $200 scholarship from Sears, was in the ROTC for four years and earned the designation of a distinguished military graduate. He entered active duty and attended Officer Basic Training, Ranger School and Airborne School at Fort Benning, GA in 1964. He spent two years as an infantry officer and transferred to be an Intelligence Officer in Germany. While in Germany, Don discovered the artistry of great beers and fine wine, the pursuit of which he followed throughout his life. His military service inevitably brought him to Vietnam as a Captain, and he quickly moved up the ranks. He was part of an advisory team, 2nd Vietnamese Army Division that survived the TET Offensive of 1968. He was honorably discharged later that same year.
Don returned to Denver and re-engaged in his education culminating in an MA from CSU and a Law Degree from CU Denver in 1970. He moved to Durango with his then wife, Betty Kay Nelson, and practiced Law primarily in the Four Corners for the next 44 years, and still chuckled at his favorite characterization by Judge Dickinson that he was too nice to be an attorney.
Many of us knew him through his service to our community, as a member of the Board of Directors for the Humane Society, during their move to the new facility and continued on for many years afterwards. He was a founding member of the Board for the Boys and Girls Club Durango and was proud to help shepherd the organization from concept through construction and ongoing success. He was a member of High Noon Rotary, and was acknowledged as a Paul Harris Fellow twice. He participated in the Hozhoni Riding program, an organization for the handicapped.
He is survived by his children Cory (and Erin) Freemyer, Denise (and Jim) Smyth, and Karen Ingle, and five grandchildren, all of whom brought a great deal of joy to his life. He was preceded in death by his sister, Nova Dayle Freemyer, mother Glenora Maxine Freemyer and father Wayne Rexall Freemyer.
Passions in life included his kids, horses, dogs, fishing, hunting, painting, cooking, wine making, archaeology, and wonderful trips to Lake Powell and gold panning with son Cory.
Prior to his passing, Don noted that "It was an honor for me to be friends with some truly great people. I thank you. I've had great joy in the Brotherhood of Lake Powell Luxury Tours and all the wonderful people I've known throughout the world these many years. And I'd like to also offer a special thank you to the kind and caring service of Cottonwood Inn and the Hospice Team at Mercy.
There will be a Memorial Service in Durango at Hood Mortuary on Saturday, March 3, 2018 at 11 a.m., followed by a VA send-off and burial in Las Animas, CO in May/June.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Hood Mortuary - Durango.
Don was a friend, neighbor and my attorney when my husband Dwane Greenstreet passed away,also his pallbearer. I just heard of his passing and I am so shocked. He was always there when a friend and neighbor needed help. It was also shocking to me because my grandson died of the same type of illness, SMA at the age of 6. Ann Stout
Ann Stout
Friend
August 22, 2018
When I was young & lived across from then Bent County High School we took care of a lamb until it was strong enough to go back to Johnny Etchart's ranch. One afternoon I was playing with my lamb when it ran into the street as the high schoolers were driving home. Don stopped his car & rescued my lamb. I thought he was a knight in shinning armour!!!!!
Jennifer Etchart Anderson
March 3, 2018
A loss indeed..
George Thompson
March 3, 2018
We have known Don over the years primarily as a professional. Don was a specialist. In addition to legal expertise, he specialized at treating parties, colleagues and others, including opponents, with respect, good faith and integrity. It was for us always a pleasure working with him to solve problems, or simply encountering him on Main Avenue.And his genuine, authentic good will always promoted a positive movement toward resolution of parties' difficulties in the legal community. Knowing and occasionally working with Don taught us that, even in present times, nice guys can finish best--a lesson we should all remember.
Deb and Jeff Anderson and Baker
March 3, 2018
My deepest heartfelt sympathies to the family. Many years ago I met Don and immediately we were friends. I very much enjoyed working with him on the farm and also with the kids especially Denise with everything Horse. Through Don I acquired 2 fine thoroughbred horses that became a foundation in my breeding program for many years. I think of Durango often and I always smile. And I always have a smile for Don and his family.
Kathryn. Kae Bartow
February 28, 2018
My thoughts and prayers going out for all of the family left behind. Don was always such a kind and special person. God Bless.
Betsy Lovelace
February 28, 2018
I consider myself extremely fortunate to share many trips to Lake Powell with Don. We knew last year would be his last physical presence with us but none of us was prepared for his passing this quickly. I will always remember Don, mostly for the depth of his character and the size of his incredible heart. RIP Old Friend, Bill Ames
Bill Ames
February 28, 2018
I feel like I've lost my dad all over again. You will be missed, Don, and I have many happy memories of growing up with you, Betty, Karen, Denise, Corey, and your mom. Rest in peace, and know you were loved.
Danita McDonald
February 28, 2018
May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes (Ps 116:15).
Michelle S
February 28, 2018
I spent many happy days at with the Freemeyer family. So many good memories.
Sonja Quarles-Termini
February 27, 2018
We have many fond memories of Don and he and his family will always hold a very special place in our hearts. Our thoughts are with you and we send our love.
Ralph and Beverly Quarles
February 26, 2018
He always knew how to make me smile and feel loved, even from 1800 miles away. Love to all the family
Heather Henningson
February 26, 2018
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