Evert Van Engelenburg died Oct. 30, 2010.

Evert was born into a Dutch immigrant family on an Iowa farm Dec. 22, 1919, the second of seven children. The family moved from Iowa to Minnesota where he met his future wife and life partner, Doris. Evert proudly served his country in World War II as an army sergeant facing combat conditions in the Philippines and New Guinea before returning to his Minnesota farm and starting a family. Boulder, Colo., became the family home in 1956 where he found employment in the lumber business eventually taking him to the Aspen and Basalt area. Retirement provided him a life of sun and fun, wintering in Arizona for almost 30 years. With Doris by his constant side, dancing, music and socializing with their many dear friends became the focus of their retirement years. Doris passed away in 2008. As with any of the trials and difficulties he encountered, Evert remained ever humble, never complaining and accepting with grace the path God presented him.

An honest and hardworking man of never wavering character, Evert approached death as he did life, with dignity and acceptance. He embraced life through simple means, deep faith and love of God. His family and friends meant everything to him. It has been a privilege and honor to call this man, dad.

Evert is survived by his two children and their families: Steve and Karen Van Engelenburg of Johnstown, Colo., and Marlene and Ron Danekas of Grand Junction, Colo.; and grandsons: Matthew and Robert of Denver.

Thank you to Dr. Gary Lake, Bill Finley and the staff at the VA Medical Center for their years of excellent care respectfully provided him. A special thank you to the personnel of the Grand Junction Hospice Care Center who made his final days a most peaceful journey filled with dignity and compassion.

No services are planned at Evert’s request. He will be laid to rest with his beloved wife of 64 years at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado.