J. Ryan McClure

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Jonathan Ryan McClure, 48, was born in Del Norte, Colo., to John Raymond and Suzanne McClure on Sept. 15, 1973, and passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 26, 2022, near Center, Colo.

Ryan was predeceased by his great-grandparents George and Elizabeth Kroenert and grandparents Cynthia Kroenert Neely, Albert Amidon, and John and Charlotte McClure.

He is survived by his parents John Raymond and Suzanne McClure; siblings Megan (Joel) Moffitt and Kara Hart (Michael Messervy); nieces and nephews McKenna Fillmore (Austin Steir), Jace Fillmore, Cayden and Dylan Hart; and great-nephews Hazen and Rhyatt Steir.

Ryan graduated from Central High School in Pueblo, Colo., in 1991 and returned to his beloved hometown of Creede, Colo., shortly thereafter. Ryan made his living as a painter, keeping Creede’s many small businesses and log homes in pristine condition during the summer months and sweeping chimneys in preparation for winter.

He was a master at small engine repair as proven by his vast collection of dirt bikes. He was an avid outdoorsman and marksman, mastering the art of hunting, antler shed gathering, searching for arrowheads, and traversing the beautiful mountains surrounding Creede.

He loved music and played in various bands over the years — The Beatless, BLAD, and most recently The Boothill Scoundrel. He even had a short stint as a professional snowboarder in his younger years.

One of his favorite memories was when he was ice fishing at Road Canyon Reservoir and a bald eagle swooped down to take his largest fish. He lived life on his terms and lived it to the fullest.

He always stopped to help a friend or neighbor in need whether it was gathering wood for the winter, chopping firewood, or lending an ear.

His talents were endless as he could even cook a gourmet meal on a woodburning stove, including dessert. When he wasn’t busy painting, riding dirt bikes, or playing in his band, you could find him under his Aunt Cindy’s spruce tree enjoying the finer things in life.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 11, 2022, at the Creede Community Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.