Obituary of Johnny Jackson

Biography Johnny Ray Jackson age 69, lifelong resident of the Ramah, Colorado communities passed away on Wednesday, June 6, 2012 at Penrose Main Hospital in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was born December 4, 1942 in Colorado Springs, Colorado to Claran W. and Lucile E. (Williams) Jackson. He grew up in the Ramah and Simla communities and graduated from Alta Vista High School in 1960. Johnny was a rancher for the majority of his life, raising cattle, sheep, and custom haying. The cattle and land were his true passion. He took pride in well-built fences, putting up good quality hay and raising a solid set of calves. Prior to his ranching career, he owned and operated Henderson Propane in Simla, Colorado and Arriba Propane in Arriba, Colorado. He was well-known for installing countless water heaters and furnaces in the area, and delivering propane to folks in need during the many Colorado blizzards. Johnny valued hard work and was driven to “get the job done.” His tough and often rigid ways can be attributed to both growing up on the eastern plains of Colorado and being the youngest sibling in a large family. In the fall he enjoyed watching the Denver Broncos play. He loved growing and tending his garden, especially his tomato and beet plants, and reading a good book with his faithful dog, Molly, by his side. He enjoyed spending time with his best friend and companion, Maryann. Whether they were at a bull sale, calving heifers, or cooking and baking together in the kitchen, they thoroughly enjoyed their time together. One of Johnny’s most favorite pastimes was enjoying a fresh cup of coffee and a good conversation at any time during the day. He always had a quick wit, funny story, or joke to share with his friends. He will remain in the hearts and thoughts of his family and friends forever. Johnny served in the United States Army National Guard as a mechanic. Mr. Jackson is survived by his companion Maryann McKim of Simla and her daughters, Kelly McKim and Kara Contos and family of Denver. He is also survived by two children, son, Justin Ray Jackson of Limon, Colorado; one daughter Dawneen Rae Banks (Mike) of Greeley, Colorado; four grandchildren, Ashlynne Taeler Banks, Joslyn Delaney Jackson, Collin Michael Banks, and Kenleigh Attysen Banks; two sisters, Clarene Durham (Lacy) of Rush, Colorado, Bernice Proctor (Cole) of Palisade, Colorado; one brother, Jimmy Jackson (Jerri) of Arizona, and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Claran and Lucile Jackson; brothers Carlton, Jack, and Bill.