Search by Name

Search by Name

Robert Jon Hately

1954 - 2024

Robert Jon Hately obituary, 1954-2024, Durango, CO

BORN

1954

DIED

2024

Robert Hately Obituary

Robert Jon Hately, born December 27, 1954, lived a full life for 69 years, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication. After fighting a long battle, he peacefully passed away on April 23, 2024. Rob's journey began in Durango, CO, where he was born to Jim and Fern Hately. It was there that he found his lifelong partner, Carolyn (Herrick), whom he married in 1980. Together, they raised their daughters, Melissa and Stephanie in Durango.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Jim and Fern, and his brother, Ed. Rob is survived by his wife, Carolyn, his daughters Melissa (Shawn) and Stephanie (Daniel), and his treasured grandchildren, Brinley, Connor, and Louis. Additionally, he is survived by his brother Mike (Sandra), sister Pam, a large extended family, and many friends.

Rob's professional journey started as a wrangler on wilderness trails during his teenage years. This experience taught him invaluable lessons about horsemanship, cooking, hard work, and, most importantly, having a good time. Transitioning into adulthood, he embarked on a career as an electrician. Alongside his brother Mike, he co-founded Dry Creek Electric, a venture that not only flourished into a successful business but also became an opportunity for aspiring professionals in the field. Rob followed in his father's footsteps as a member of the National Ski patrol at Purgatory for many years. There he was able to mix his passion for skiing with helping others.

Rob was a lifetime skier, skilled fisherman, avid hunter, and unwavering Denver Broncos fan. When he wasn't enjoying his passions, he could be found lending a hand to a friend in need, working in his yard, or enjoying the company of friends on a camping trip. But on Sundays, when the Broncos took to the field, his cheers, and sometimes frustrations, echoed through the neighborhood as he supported his team.

Rob will be missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday May 4, 2024, from 12 - 2 pm. Friends and family, old and young, are invited to join us at the Wild Horse Saloon, 601 E 2nd Ave Durango CO.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Durango Herald on Apr. 25, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Robert Hately

Not sure what to say?





sunny

May 16, 2024

Carolyn,

I just read this and am so very, very sorry for your loss. It's hard to believe Rob is gone as I remember so well when you two first got together and he'd come into the bank to see you and you would get a huge grin on your face. My thoughts are with you and the girls.

Sunny

Julie Turner Jorgensen

May 16, 2024

Rob was a good friend of my brother Johnny. Sincere condolences to the family.

Karl Heffelfinger

May 12, 2024

Carolyn and family, I just read this and am so very sorry. What a great guy, it´s been many year but when I think of my time in Durango time spent with Robbie always brings a big smile.
God Bless you all.
Karl Heffelfinger
Franklin NC

Shelly Perlmutter

May 4, 2024

First met Rob when he built my cabin back in 2011. Right away I liked him and knew my electrical installation was in great hands. Over the years whenever we met, we had some wonderful conversations.
I feel honored to have known Rob and when I think of him now, a smile comes across my face. RIP Rob....a peaceful sleep that is truly deserved..!
My condolences to Carolyn and family, Shelly Perlmutter

Single Memorial Tree

Maria Ferrato

Planted Trees

Steve Jamnik

April 29, 2024

I met Rob and Caroline 40 years ago during my skiing days at Purg. Our friendship continued through our construction years with many good laughs. I'll miss you Rob, and my condolences to you,Caroline.

Jim Hately

April 28, 2024

I have to many fond and historic family memories of Rob (Robbie) that it would take some time to tell them all. He will be missed by all who knew him. Our prayers are going to our families for this loss.
Cousin Jim Hately/ Pagosa

Steve Householder

April 28, 2024

A great person, always friendly and a nice smile. I will always remember seeing him and having great conversations.

Single Memorial Tree

Steve & Patti Barker

Planted Trees

Patti Barker

April 28, 2024

Caroline, Steve and I just found out and our hearts are going out to you and your girls. We have wonderful memories of Rob. He was bigger than life! We are grieving this loss as the world was a better place for having Rob in it. Please let us know if we can do anything for you. You are all in our hearts.

Rod Cook

April 27, 2024

Rob we will sure miss you. Sister Pam was in my DHS class and his dad Jim was my barber when I was growing up here. I have known this family for many years. Hugs for the family. Rod Cook

Davitt M. Armstrong

April 26, 2024

A million good, fun memories, and about a thousand great jobs, Robbie. Every soul that ever met you met a good man. Carolyn, I hope that you and the kids find strength in basking in Robbie´s legacy of goodness and kindness and limitless skill. Susan and I wish you all ease and grace.
Dav

JB, Washington, DC

April 26, 2024

Rob worked with me at Purgatory back in the early 1970's. I also knew his father Jim, and both were
great guys. They stand out in my memories of those years, half a century ago, as the kind of Durango people that made the town a wonderful place to live, learn and work.

Joni Brannen Cozby

April 26, 2024

I am so sorry to hear this. He fought for such a long time. I hadn´t seen him in awhile , the last time we talked he was so optimistic and gave us a lot of input on my husbands cancer. He was always so kind and raised such a beautiful family. My heart
goes out to all the family and lots of love and prayers to all of you.

Elva Kibler

April 26, 2024

Joe Booth

April 26, 2024

I moved to Durango in '94 and worked as a carpenter on a custom home project with Rob for over a year. He was one of, if not the nicest, most generous and friendly man I have ever met. I'm sure he will be truly missed.

CAROL WINE

April 26, 2024

what a Great guy--played softball for him and will always remember him jumping up and down-good or bad!!!! Prayers to Carolyn

Sharon Hampton

April 25, 2024

Rob will be greatly missed by this family. We met many years ago when I was just a teenager . He and Carolyn have always been the kind of people you can count on. Kind , generous and loving. Rob left an impression on my children and shared his wisdom many times. We are so lucky to know such a beautiful family and courageous and honorable man. Thank you for years of friendship and being a great role model for everyone. We will miss your smile, sense of humor and giving spirit. May we all take your example and strive to be better.
Love ,
Fred,Sharon, Jessey,Jacob, Dylan&Brooke Hampton

Cora

April 25, 2024

Too many memories to list. This man was absolutely my second father for most of my childhood ...maybe even my preferred father...dont tell my dad ;), I learned so much from him. He is so deeply missed.

Showing 1 - 19 of 19 results

Make a Donation
in Robert Hately's name

Memorial Events
for Robert Hately

May

4

Celebration of Life

12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Wild Horse Saloon

601 E 2nd Ave., Durango, CO

How to support Robert's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Robert Hately's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more