John E. Duran

John Emerson Duran of the world, passed away, April 19, 2025 in Durango, Colorado, surrounded by love. Private Services are being held.

John was born in Durango, Colorado, July 17, 1961 and grew up and attended schools in Ignacio. He graduated with a degree in education from the University of New Mexico.

John was a world class rock climber, world traveler, mountain biker, snow-skier. He was an intellectual. Through his travel he became very knowledgeable of other cultures, faiths and practices. John was a world renowned free solo climber. He traversed the impossible and captivated and painted his lines of climbing routes like an artist. He danced up the mountains and cliffs that he ascended. He was a kind and beautiful human being, generous with his time and talent. He loved to spend time with his brothers, his wife and his friends. John never worried about money. Those that knew him, knew the best parts of him and enjoyed his uplifting presence. Everyone that spent time with John on his adventures can still remember and reflect upon the journey. We would like to thank friends and family in the celebration of his life. John has the distinction of having biked the Great Wall of China. Out of the 100 best climbers in the world, he was ranked 43rd, though many of the ranked climbers were much younger than him.

He is survived by his wife, Rita; brothers: Michael and Rudy Jr.; nephews Jesse and Dakota Duran.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Rudy John Duran, Sr. and Joyce Duran.