Jack Lee David

Surrounded by family, Jack Lee David passed away after a short stay at Mantey Heights Rehabilitation center in Grand Junction Colorado. 

Jack was born at home in Del Norte Colorado to Merle Vernon David and Ila Mae (Crown) David. He was the 4th oldest of 11 children and the last surviving member of his family. His siblings’ names were Robert, Doris, Betty, Raymond, Donald, Lila, Frank, Charlie, Janice and Joyce. They lived in the San Louis valley and the Montrose area while growing up. 

On April 29, 1956, Jack eloped to Taos New Mexico with “the love of his life” Estella Marie Phillips. Although she passed too early, Estella (Dec 12, 1939 – June 25, 1979) had a tremendous impact on his life and that of their children. He is survived by their children: Jackie Shelby (Rick), Jay David and Jolene Cable (Bruce); 6 grandchildren: Kristi, Heather, Misty, Jamey, Austin and Annika; 9 great grandchildren and one great-great grandchild.

Jack was best known in the Gunnison area for “Jack’s Backhoe Service” and his many years of contributions to the 4H livestock sale. He was one of the longest consistent buyers of 4H beef at the sale for over 60 years. His work and business were well known in the area by people of the community, businesspeople, ranchers and builders. His efforts helped shape Gunnison and the surrounding areas for many years. He was always willing to help by plowing snow in the winter to help the community. In his later years he enjoyed living in Powderhorn in the summers and Grand Junction in the winters. 

There are too many people, stories and aspects of Jack’s life to cover here. He had so many interests, adventures and people that he cared about over the years. Just know that he will be greatly missed by his family and many friends in the Gunnison, Grand Junction and Colorado area. There are many nieces, nephews, sister-in-law’s, brother-in-law’s, family by blood and family by choice, close friends and neighbors who will miss him very much.

The summers at the Powderhorn cabin will not be the same for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was affectionately known as Grandpa Jack and Grandpa Great, and they will carry a piece of him in their hearts forever. We like to think that he is off on his next adventure, wherever that may be, and we know he is at peace

The family wishes to thank Abode Hospice of Grand Junction and Mantey Heights Rehabilitation center for the excellent care he received. They provided for his comfort and dignity until the very end.

A celebration of Jack’s life will be held in Pitkin in mid-July of 2025. Time and date to be determined.