Donald Ray Barkhurst

Don Barkhurst, 86, of Dolores, Colorado, passed away peacefully in his family home on the morning of November 26, 2025. He was born October 1, 1939 in Kansas City, Missouri to Clarence and Dorothy (Oliver) Barkhurst.

Don graduated from the University of Nevada Reno with an Electrical Engineering degree. He worked at the Lawrence Radiation Laboratory, the Balboa Laboratory, and for EG&G working on national defense projects and nuclear observation instrumentation at the Nevada Test Sites. He later co-owned a Body Shop, doing mechanical auto repairs, and founded his own contracting business, Diversus Inc. He thrived as his own boss, doing as he liked – particularly networking over coffee and design/build projects like shield rooms, the UNM Alumni clock, and three family homes.

Don was a scientist, designer, mechanic, small business owner, and Cold War veteran. He was a man full of stories and wit, always eager to tell you of his adventures. He loved skiing, riding motorcycles, building dune buggies, and restoring vintage automobiles. He briefly tried his hand at piloting small aircraft.

Later in life he enjoyed visiting with his family, and spending time with his friends over lunch. He was always ready with a joke and had a great sense of humor.

Don was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather and friend to the many people who loved him. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Hope Barkhurst, his five children: Stefanie, Carrie, Kemper (Beth), Kaleb, and Kourtney, six grandchildren: Gillian, Jack, Ethan, Sydnee, Evie, and Polly, and sisters

His strong intelligence, twinkling eyes, and fierce independence will be missed.