Donald Ray Conner went home to be with the Lord on January 28th, 2026. He was born and raised in Durango, Colorado, he graduated from Durango High School in 1966. He then joined the U.S. Army in 1968 and served as a radio tech while stationed in then Saigon, South Vietnam. After returning to the U.S., he married Karma Tucson on December 31, 1973 and they had 52 wonderful years together. The couple then relocated to Farmington, New Mexico where Don worked as a heavy equipment operator for various companies until his retirement. Don was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was an avid fisherman and a jack of all trades. He enjoyed gardening and traveling with his family. Steadfast in his beliefs, Don was a pillar of our family. We'll remember his love, his wisdom, and his sense of humor. We'll dearly miss him.
He was preceded in death by his parents William and Mary Conner; brothers George Conner, Robert Conner, and Lyle Conner; sisters Mae Boughan, Mercy McReynolds, and Alberta Smith.
Don is survived by his loving wife Karma Conner; sons Donald Ray Conner, Jr. and Brandon Lee Conner; daughter Lavae (David) Martinez; sisters Blanche Valencia, Mary Louise (Buddy) Gray, and Patti (Bill) Willis; grandson Jason Luke Martinez; granddaughter Mya Karlene Martinez; great-grandson Mariano Johnny Martinez.
There will be a memorial service at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at the World Harvest Church, 1024 N. Butler Ave. in Farmington, with Pastor Christie DeWees officiating. Graveside will take place following the service at Greenmount Cemetery, 900 Cemetery Road in Durango, CO. There will be a reception at 2:00 pm at the American Legion Post 28, 878 E. 2nd Ave in Durango.