Merl Short Obituary

Merl Eugene Short, 94, passed away Monday, November 24, 2014 in his home at Sunnyside – South of Durango, Colo. Services will be held at the Double Tree Hotel Ball Room on Saturday, November 29, 2014, at 10:00 a.m.

Merl was born February 8, 1920 at the homestead of his parents, Alva and Belle Short, in Sunnyside. He was one of 12 children. He graduated from Durango High School in 1938. Merl worked as a carpenter for a short time before he enlisted in the Army on February 24, 1941. He was proud to serve his country during World War II as a surveyor and instrument technician.

Upon his discharge, he continued as a surveyor briefly before purchasing San Juan Implement, a Case Tractor and Ranch Supply dealership in Durango. It was during this time that he married Marilyn Lee Mason on March 5, 1949, in Durango. In 1958, Merl and Marilyn purchased the Mason Family Homestead at Sunnyside, where they undertook full time farming, ranching and raising their children: Karen, Steve and Kevin.

He spent his career moving livestock to the high country and back and raising crops. He was well known as an entrepreneur, volunteer and donor in Durango, in addition to his agricultural influence. Among Merl's numerous community endeavors, he was a member of the Eureka Grange and the B.P.O. Elks Lodge #507, and served on the La Plata County Fair Board, the Durango Chamber of Commerce Board and the School District 9-R Board. He tirelessly volunteered as a 4-H leader throughout his children's involvement and beyond.

Merl also enjoyed spending time in his woodshop, the outdoors, travel, dancing, riding horses and gardening.

Through his actions, Merl taught the expectation to be active in service to one's community. Family was paramount in Merl's life and he supported his family's efforts and careers. Merl's life lessons to his family and community were taught through his high character, moral values and service.

He is survived by his children and their families: Karen and Jerry Zink, Steve and Jane Short, and Kevin and Carrie Short; grandchildren: Heidi and Holly Zink, Jonathan Short, Kyle and Marilyn Short; great-grandaughter Ingrid Short; brother: Lyle Short, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn and 10 siblings.

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the Durango Education Foundation, 201 East 12th St, Durango, CO 81301.