John A. Pedas

Sunrise for John Pedas, age 81, began when he was born in Pueblo, CO to Russell and Mary Pedas [deceased]. His younger brother, Steve is [deceased]. He is survived by his sisters Rusanna Livermore of Durango, CO, and Kathy Gobin [Bill] of Centennial, CO; daughter Kristin Victry [Brad] of Benton City, WA, and grandsons Jake & Benjamin.

John spent his summers on the ranch in La Veta, CO from ages 6 to 18. He worked alongside Grandpa Steve and Uncle Bill and gained valuable experience in farming. On the bailer they were known as, 'Two Men and a Boy.' John attended Pueblo Schools and graduated from South High in 1960. He graduated from Colorado State University in 1965 and remained a loyal fan and supporter.

He began his career as a teacher, specializing in Chemistry and Physics in Lexington, NE. Three years later he returned to Ft. Collins, where he worked for the Larimer County Planning and Zoning Department. With a blueprint of the county etched in his mind, he exercised a calm demeanor as a Director. Even after retirement, he continued to contribute in the community and worked for the City of Ft. Collins in Planning and Zoning.

John was an avid fisherman and believed, "Any day a man doesn't fish was a day wasted." He was a volunteer for the Ft. Collins Blood Bank; he enjoyed square dancing and was known for his gourmet cooking skills, particularly his home-canned sauerkraut. John was affectionately referred to as 'The Taffy Man' at appointments.

Until his final sunset, John came home to live a few months in La Veta, CO at the base of the Spanish Peaks. At his request, he bequeathed his body to The University of Colorado Medical School. His ashes will be inurned in the La Veta Cemetery.