Geraldine (Eilbes) Obituary

Geraldine (Jeri) May Rundquist (Eilbes), 83 of Hesperus, CO died on 10/30/2021 after a long struggle with Alzheimer's. She was a resident at Sunshine Gardens West.

She and her husband Allen, hoping to start a new adventure for their family packed up the kids, dog, and furnishings and headed west from Wisconsin eventually making Hesperus their home for 44 years. She would proudly introduce herself and the family as the Hesperus Hillbillies.

Always the life of a party with a witty sense of humor Jeri made many friends.

An avid horsewoman from her teen years on, Jeri participated in endurance competitions with the Pony Express Route being one of her greatest accomplishments. She trained several horses and gave riding lessons to young riders. She was a true western woman.

Religion was always her priority. A devoted Catholic and member of St Columba Church and Catholic Daughters, she volunteered and traveled with the church on many occasions.

Jeri worked for Colorado State University, Forest Service, and CO Hwy. Departments. After her retirement she and her husband Allen became Snowbirds and spent many winters in Sun City AZ where she enjoyed hiking, roller skating, and swimming.

She is survived by her Son Brett (Lori), Daughter Deanna and loving pet Jetta, Grandchildren Clayton (Ryan), Justin (Kara), Emma Dake, 5 great-grandchildren all from Durango, and brothers Robert Eilbes of Hesperus and Daniel Eilbes of Waukesha WI, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

No service is planned at this time. A celebration of life will be held later this spring when the family can gather.

Memorial contributions can be made to Hospice of Mercy-Durango 175 Mercado Street Suite 131, Durango CO, 81301