Donald Ferris Obituary

Former Durango resident Donald LeRoy Ferris died Sunday, June 13, 2010, at The Valley Inn in Mancos. He was two months

shy of his 97th birthday.

His family said Mr. Ferris was known in Durango for riding the Opportunity Bus to the Durango Community Recreation

Center each day, for attending the potluck at the monthly contra dance and for socializing on the front porch of the

Cedar View Senior Housing Center, where he lived for three years.

Known as "Pop," he was born to Theodore and Pearl (Knox) Ferris on Aug. 19, 1913, in Streator, Ill.

Mr. Ferris was a professional musician who played the bass fiddle and clarinet. After playing with the 19th Infantry

Army Band at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii, he went to New York City and later, Baltimore. In Baltimore he had his own

dance orchestra for many years, The Townsmen Orchestra.

On March 23, 1940, he married Rose E. Matthews in Baltimore. The marriage ended in divorce after 40 years.

"His determination to live and be active will be missed by his family and friends," his family wrote.

Mr. Ferris is survived by his daughters Lani Ferris Graham of Durango and Faith A. Ferris of Hollywood, Md.; sons

Kenneth R. Ferris of Phoenix and Donald L. Ferris Jr. of Manhattan Beach, Calif.; and five grandchildren.

Cremation has occurred. No services are planned.