Jack W. Blacksher

Jack W. Blacksher February 8, 1933 - June 9, 2009 Jack Blacksher passed away at Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado on June 9, 2009 at the age of 76. Jack was born to Alvin R. and Claudell Blacksher on February 8, 1933 in Skellytown, TX. He attended school in Amarillo, TX. He married Ellene Darnell on September 15, 1951 in Clovis, NM. They moved to the Grand Junction area in 1957. Jack was the founder and owner of J & S Fence Company, Inc. He started the company in 1961 and worked hard to build a successful and reputable business. In 1995 he sold the business to his daughter so he and Ellene could enjoy retirement. Jack was very intelligent man who gained most of his knowledge by educating himself and working hard. He always loved a challenge. Jack had an uncanny business sense. He could buy a truck load of what others considered to be junk and turn it into a goldmine. He always had his eye out for opportunities knowing that with his keen business vision he would be successful. Jack never met a stranger. In a matter of minutes Jack would have you feeling like you had known him your entire life. His outgoing, friendly and jovial disposition would put you at ease and bring a smile to your face. He could talk the ears off an elephant. His gift of gab and his ability to communicate served him well, not only in his business but also in his personal life. Jack was a giving and generous man. On many occasions he came to the aid of family, friends and even strangers. He never expected anyone to return the favor. Helping others made him happy. Jack enjoyed fishing, hunting, traveling, trips to Las Vegas and playing board games. Most of all, Jack loved spending time with his family. His happiest times were when his daughters and their families were gathered at his house for holidays, birthdays, BBQ's and family game nights. Jack was proud to have taught all his grandchildren to swim. He will be truly missed by his family and all those who were fortunate enough to have known him. He is survived by his daughters, and their husbands, whom he considered to be his sons, Debra and Jim Hulse; Doris and LaVerne Downey, Donna and Mike Akens; 12 grandchildren, Michelle and Richard Martinez, Mitch and Becca Akens, Eric Downey, Michael Mattivi, Mandy and Matt Cotts, Melanie and Travis Nevins, LeeAnn Downey and Brian Wiley; nine great grandchildren, Josh, Zach and Kali Martinez, Sidnee and Nathanel Akens, Tyler and Jordan Lorimor and Alex and Melody Cotts. Also surviving are his sister, Joy Wagner and brother, Homer Blacksher. Jack was preceded in death by his wife, Ellene; his parents and stepmother; two sisters and a brother. The family would like to thank Hospice and Palliative Care for providing dignity, support and compassion to Jack and his family in his final days. Also, the family would like to give a special thank you to Jack's caregiver, Patricia Archuleta. A memorial service to celebrate Jack's life will be held Saturday, June 13th, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary. Visitation will be one hour before the service. Internment will follow at the Orchard Mesa Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado.