Leroy Vagneur, age 81, died peacefully at his home in Durango, surrounded by his family, on May 16, 2013. Leroy died from a brain aneurism.

Leroy was born on Oct. 24, 1931, to Sullivan and Clarice (Greener) Vagneur. He grew up on the Vagneur family ranch in Woody Creek, Colo. Leroy enjoyed working on the ranch and hunting with his father and brothers.

After graduating from Pitkin County High School in Aspen, Colo., he joined the U.S. Air Force in 1952. He was honorably discharged from the Air Force in 1956 with commendations. He then attended Colorado State University and graduated with a degree in agriculture.

While on ski patrol at Arapahoe Basin ski area he met Bobbi (Geis). They were married on Sept. 10, 1961. They lived in Frisco, Woody Creek, Carbondale, Sterling and Durango, where they raised their family and lived for over 40 years. Leroy worked at the Co-Op in Carbondale and later was a respected banker and real estate broker for many years in Durango.

Leroy was on the National Ski Patrol at Purgatory, where the family spent many weekends. He was an active lifetime member of the Durango Elks Club. Gardening and boating at Lake Powell and Lake Navajo with family and friends was a favorite pastime. Leroy enjoyed taking care of his four beloved dogs: Magnum, Henry, Cuda and Beau.

Leroy was preceded in death by his parents and all siblings except his brother, Wayne (Lois) Vagneur. He is survived by his wife, Bobbi; son, Zane (Judie); children, Zack and Whitney; son, Jeff (Trish); children, Brittnee and Ashlee; son, Jeremie (Tressa); children, Anthony and Gavin; great-grandchildren, Jayden, Noah and Braeden. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Cremation has taken place at Hood Mortuary and a private family celebration of life will be held. Online condolences can be sent to Hood Mortuary at hoodmourtuary.com.