Gerald (Gary) Glen Chaffin

 Gary Chaffin was born in Cortez, Colorado on February 3rd, 1945. He was one of 9 children for Victor and Elsie Chaffin. Gary passed away on October 3rd, 2025, at the age of 80.

Gary served as a gunner on a Huey helicopter in the US army for 2 years. While he served, he received 3 metals. He was always proud of his time served, and being a veteran. Gary also was a farmer and rancher, and his horses and cattle were always fat! He also worked in heavy construction and owned his own fence building business for several years.

Gary would describe himself as “the only Cowboy in the whole damn family”. For several years, he was involved in the pony express and the Jim Cannon Events. He would race horses in the endurance horse race, which was a 22-mile-long race. He rode a horse named Gas Trap. He had success winning the race in Gunnison, Mancos, and Dolores.

He also belonged to the saddle dusters for several years. Gary loved his horses and dogs, his brothers, sisters, children, grandchildren, and his wonderful wife, Donna very much. He liked his time as a rancher and taking care of the ranch. He liked the Denver Broncos and was sure to hackle any fan not rooting for them. He loved to dance, hunt, fish, go on cruises and his Black Cowboy Hat! He disliked “Jason’s gosh damn little boy panty shorts”.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife Donna, son Shane and wife Elva, son Adam and wife Merry. Many Grandchildren and 6 Great Grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved daughters, Brooksie Lynn, and Amber Dawn. His sisters Dorothey, Betty, Marie, and Shirely. Brothers Danny, Stanley, Doug, and Chan. Many brothers and sisters-in-law, aunts, uncles and cousins.

The Family would like to thank Hospice of Montezuma for the wonderful care and love Gary received.

Services will be held Saturday October 11, 2025, at 10:00am at Lewis Arriola Community Center, followed by inurnment at Fairview cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lewis Arriola Community Center on the website or mailed to 21176 Road S. Cortez, CO 81321. https://lewisarriolacommunitycenter.com/