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William Embree Obituary

On Monday, May 23, 2022, William Douglas Embree "Doug" passed away at the age of 73. He served the City of Durango Police Department for 34 years. He received the Medal of Valor. His children include, daughter Michelle & Ray Lunnon, grandchildren Nikolle, Danika, Rylan & Shayla. In addition his daughter Jessica Gunckel, grandchildren Khaleesi & Ridge. His son Kurt Gunckel & wife Sarah, grandchildren Logan, Shay, & Ellie. Doug coached Babe Ruth Baseball. He competed in skeet/trap shooting, and softball. He loved hunting, fishing, boating & 4 wheeling. He will be missed by family & friends. A Celebration of Life will be announced in the near future.

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

Published by The Durango Herald on May 26, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
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Rene Keller

August 20, 2022

Oh no. I just found out today that Doug is gone. I went to his Facebook page to message him to see how he was doing. My husband and I were going to be in the Durango area and I wanted to see if we could get together and meet his family. My heart is broken. I met Doug in the summer of 1970. I was a new freshman at Life. He was my dear, precious friend for all the years I was there. I have the most wonderful memories. I´m so grateful the Lord brought Doug into my life. Knowing him was so much fun and laughter. My prayers are with his family. I look forward to catching up, Doug, in Heaven.

Becky Heizer

August 3, 2022

Dearest Patti, Michelle and families:

I was ready to send Doug a card when I read the sad news. I am so sorry for your great great loss!!
I would have been at his memorial but didn't know until it was over.

We met at Youth Camp years ago, with his brothers, Tom, Hal and sister, Peg. Later, at college together in LA, Doug asked me to introduce him to Janet and is how he eventually ended up in Durango.

I laughed over the years, as he would end up regularly on my parents' patio couch, sleeping, usually unbeknownst to anyone!! Watching his baseball abilities was really something!! My family was always very fond of Doug and his family.

My deepest sympathy Patti for your loss of Doug who dearly loved you. I know you will miss him!

Michelle, I am so sorry you lost your Father. He
loved you the minute you were born!!

We all loved and will miss his BIG presence!!

With Love and Sympathy,

Becky

Rob Haukeness

July 24, 2022

It was an honor to work with Doug. I am so very sorry for your loss....

Steve Jackson

July 14, 2022

Forty plus years of friendship and association. From bowling in the same league at Basin Bowl in the 1970's to enjoying each others' company while playing "Texas Holdem" poker in the 2010's, and all of the times in between. I will miss your formidable but gentle presence. I am blessed that I knew you. May the spirit of God rest upon you - until we meet again.

Nancy Ford

May 31, 2022

Enjoyed working with Doug in the 1980's at the Durango Police Dept. God bless. Prayers to Patty and the family.

Susie Morris McRae

May 29, 2022

College was a long time ago. I prayed for your happiness for 50 years. Now my prayers are with the beautiful family God gave you here on earth. You left my life but never my heart. Your amazing eyes now look into the face of our Jesus. See you again soon.

Kathy Christopher

May 28, 2022

In college, Doug, Gary Vanhorn and I spent a lot of time in the mountains and at the beach. I don't have words for how much these friends have meant to me. Love you dearly, Doug Embree. Don't like this planet as much without you.

Gary vanhorn

May 28, 2022

Doug you will be sorely missed. We were friends for 55 years. Years that are cherished. Prayers to Patti, family and friends. See you in heaven Doug!

Dale Smith

May 27, 2022

Doug - enjoy all the years we served together at Durango Police Department. We always knew that we had each other's back in those tight calls. Lucky we were able to go home. You were an outstanding, honest, and dedicated person/police officer. Thank you for being a friend. RIP 111 - see you on the other side. -Dale

Thom & Sandra Embree

May 27, 2022

Will miss you greatly big brother.
Till we see you again in glory.

mike petty

May 27, 2022

I knew Doug years ago when I worked for Farmington Police Dept. We became friends and worked together in both jurisdictions. I have been gone from the area for many years and was very saddened to hear of Doug's passing. My deepest sympathy and prayers to Doug's family. Mike Petty.

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Hood Mortuary - Durango

1261 East 3rd Avenue, Durango, CO 81301

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