Robert Duran Obituary

Durango resident Robert R. Duran died Thursday, June 27, 2013, at home. He was 62. The cause of death was complications of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Known as "Bobby," he was born to Joe and Emma Duran on Aug. 25, 1950, in Durango. He was the youngest of three sons. After graduating from Durango High School in 1968, he worked at the C.O.D. Laundry.

In November 1971, Mr. Duran enlisted in the Army. He served in Germany, Colorado, Louisiana and South Carolina. He particularly enjoyed his time in Germany during his seven or eight years of service as a field wireman in communications.

After his military service, Mr. Duran worked in construction, then spent 17 years as a prep cook at the Red Snapper when Rick and Karen Langhart owned it. He later worked at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and Mercy Regional Medical Center.

"Bobby loved his country and was proud to serve in the armed forces here in the U.S. and abroad," his family said. "After many life changes, he found his true love again, and he married his high school sweetheart, Becky Sandoval, on June 12, 2004, in Durango."

Mr. Duran was an avid Broncos fan and enjoyed entertaining his family and friends with his guitar. He played in a local band known as Eddie and the Aces.

Mr. Duran also served as commander of the American Legion Post No. 28 in Durango for three years.

"He always had a smile on his face and had good words to say about everyone," his family said. "He was a real practical jokester; we'll miss his funny antics."

Mr. Duran is survived by his wife of nine years, Rebecca Duran of Durango; children Bobbie Jo Duran and Noah Ringulet, both of Oregon; stepchildren Gabe Archuleta of Ignacio, Domnick Archuleta of Farmington and Renne Saiz of Bloomfield, N.M.; and five granddaughters and seven grandsons.

Visitation will be from noon to 4 p.m. Monday, July 1, 2013, at Hood Mortuary Chapel, 1261 East Third Ave. A rosary will be recited at 6 p.m. Monday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 254 East Fifth Ave. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 2, 2013, at Sacred Heart. Burial will take place at Greenmount Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the American Legion Post No. 28, 878 East Second Ave., Durango, CO 81301.