Jeffrey Davies Obituary

Durango resident Jeffrey William Davies died Sunday, April 27, 2014, in Durango. He was 41. The cause of death is undetermined at this time.

Known as "Jeff" or "The Voyager," he was born to Terrance and Linda Davies on March 28, 1973, in Corning, New York, where he grew up, graduating from Corning West High School in 1991.

In 1991, he moved to Durango, followed in 1995 by his brother, Brian, as they followed a spirit of adventure and attended Fort Lewis College, according to his family. He graduated with a degree in environmental geology in 1996.

In Durango, he worked as a geologist and later employed his skills as a carpenter.

"From a very young age, Mr. Davies was moved by the outdoors," according to his family. He got his nickname because "his thirst for new experiences never tired."

An avid rock climber, Mr. Davies enjoyed ascending tall, sheer rock faces in Colorado, California, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. He made many "first ascents," discovering new climbing routes for others to enjoy. His family said Mr. Davies adhered to Ralph Waldo Emerson's quote, saying, "Do not go where a path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."

Mr. Davies was a skilled spelunker, exploring deep underground caverns, often not emerging for days. He assisted underground survey crews as a team leader for the National Park Service in places like Lechuguilla Cave at Carsbad Caverns in New Mexico, the seventh-longest explored cave in the world. He mapped caves throughout the U.S. and Mexico. He was called into underground search-and-rescue efforts to help others.

In winter months, he turned his attention to ice climbing in the San Juan Mountains.

"Jeff was joined often in his adventures by his dog and companion, Solo," according to his family. Known for his good humor and a willingness to help, "He always had a smile, and if he found someone who didn't, he'd give them one of his."

In 2009, Mr. Davies took up hang gliding, finding new locations in Colorado and Utah from which to take flight. He contributed to hang gliding publications and became immersed in the culture.

"Flying," as he told his family, "was like being free. Once you're up there, you're just floating."

Mr. Davies is survived by his brother, Brian Davies, of Durango; father, Terrance Davies, of Corning; and extended family members.

Cremation has occurred. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.