Dominic Ray Petrose

Dominic Ray “Dom” Petrose, 54, passed away on May 26, 2025, in Cortez, Colorado. Born on September 10, 1970, in Alamogordo, New Mexico air force base. Throughout Dominic’s life, he held a deep love for his friends and family, a devotion to his faith, and a passion for his many crafts.

A man who loved to work with his hands, Dominic spent more than three decades building a respected career as a mechanic and bus driver. As an artist at heart, he expressed himself through sketching, painting, and creating metal artwork. A few of Dominic’s pieces have become landmarks in the Durango area, including a 32-foot branch with acorns made from Weber barbecues, a giant 6,500-pound pinecone located in the Edgemont Highlands subdivision, and a life-sized horse over six feet tall near the entrance of the La Plata County Fairgrounds.

Dominic found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid hunter who cherished time spent in nature. His enthusiasm for hobby stocks reflected his love of speed and mechanics combined. But perhaps nothing brought him more happiness than being “Papa.” Time with his granddaughter Charlee and grandson Lincoln was among his greatest treasures.

Humble at heart, he found his greatest pride in the love of his extensive family. Those left to cherish his memory include his children: Viktoria Lynn Rucker (Taylor Rucker) Anthonee Miguel Petrose (Rylee Petrose) Lacee Daun Petrose (Killian Kaiser) and Kagan McVay, his grandchildren: Charlee and Lincoln, his siblings: Robert Petrose (Rita Petrose) and Tania Millonzi (Jeffrey Millonzi) and his loving parents: Tony Michael Petrose II (Kathy Petrose) and Vikki Britton (Larry Britton). Dominic was preceded in death by his beloved spouse, Larae Petrose.

A man of faith, Dominic worshipped as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. His beliefs were a guiding force throughout his life. Services will be held for Dominic on Saturday (June 7th ) at 2 p.m., at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses (1304 E Empire St, Cortez, CO 81321). All of those who knew and loved him are welcome to attend.

Dominic’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched—with every drawing he sketched, every engine he repaired, every grandchild’s smile he inspired. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.