Donald E. Demarest

Don was a good friend and a real cowboy, you would notice him right away with that Cowboy Hat on. He was a historian and I loved listening to him talk about the old days in Durango. He knew everybody back in the day; Owners of banks, restaurants, hotels & gas stations. When he had his sign business in Durango he met a lot of people, but of course, I am sure this came from being on the Chamber of Commerce also.
Everybody loved Don.
I miss him every day!
Former Durango...

Don had so many stories to share and was writing a book. His family was #1 and always updating us on who was graduating High School or College, and where they were working.

I had a couple of favorite stories that he shared. My favorite was when he owned the sign company in Durango, (I believe in 1971 or 1972) he also delivered mail up LaPlata Canyon and was snowshoeing in and had to step over the power lines because the snow was so deep and lines sagging. I can see that. The other...

Don was a great friend to the Byars and Bacus families. He'll be missed, and it's such a shame to lose more of those who helped make Durango what it was, and kept it going before it was discovered. We're sure going to miss that smile. Rena (Bacus) Cole, Rich and Steve Byars.

He did so many things for the community that no one will ever know. He was a family man. Don was a gentleman and widely respected by those who knew him.Rest in peace.

Don was one of the greatest people who have ever lived in human history. I will miss him greatly. He was a role model to me and I have modeled my life after him. Thanks for everything
Don. Wayne Tope