Jerry Barth Obituary

Durango resident Jerry Floyd Barth, died after a long battle with cancer Sunday, Nov. 3, 2013, in Durango. He had turned 57 two weeks earlier.

Mr. Barth was born to Ray and Shirley (Burr) Barth on Oct. 20, 1956, in Houston.

He spent 40 years as an independent petroleum consultant in the oil field, on land and offshore. It was what he loved when he was not spending time with family and friends, his family said.

Mr. Barth had lived in Durango for about 23 years.

When he was not hunting with his son, he loved watching his daughter dance and listening to her music. He enjoyed spending weekends visiting friends and grilling. He had a passion for travel and loved meeting new people and seeing new places.

"Jerry lived a very blessed life," according to his family. "Jerry was never afraid of dying. He knew where his home was. Jerry will long be remembered for his favorite quote, 'Laissez les bon temps roulez!'"

Mr. Barth is survived by his sons Matthew Barth of Durango, John Ruch of Knoxville, Tenn., and Adam Ruch of St. Petersburg, Fla.; daughter, Abigail Barth of Durango; mother, Shirley Barth of Kerrville, Texas; sister, Jana McDermott of Kerrville; two grandchildren; and numerous extended family members.

Cremation will occur. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 9, 2013, at Hood Mortuary Chapel, 1261 East Third Ave. The Rev. Dan Straw will officiate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105; or Florida Mesa Presbyterian Church – Building Fund, 1024 County Road 230, Durango, CO 81301.