Jack L. Horner of Fruita, and formerly of Montrose, passed away at his home on Friday, Sept. 26 at the age of 61. Horner was born July 10, 1947 in Provo, Utah to Charles and Wanda (Howe) Horner. He spent his childhood in Telluride and graduated from Telluride High School in 1965. He continued his education in college and also served 20 years in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman, retiring as a Master Chief. He served his country with the Marines in Vietnam, receiving the Bronze Star for heroism.

Horner married Dixie Fruit on July 2, 1968 in San Diego, Calif. Before returning to Colorado they lived in San Diego, Oklahoma, Japan, and Seattle. The Horners owned and operated Forest Classics Log Homes in Montrose for many years. They moved to Fruita a year-and-a half ago from Montrose. Before moving to Montrose, the couple attended Grace Community Church for 23 years. Horner enjoyed his family, friends, the outdoors, camping, and traveling.

Survivors include Horner’s wife, Dixie; children Brandon Horner and wife Bridget of Montrose, and Autumn Shenk and husband Gabriel of Lone Pine, Calif.; six grandchildren, Emmline Horner, Mitchel Horner, Eliza Shenk, Peter Shenk, Wesley Shenk, and Annabelle Shenk; and brothers and sisters, Mike Horner and wife Roxie of Placerville, Larry Horner and wife Wanda of Grand Junction, Mark Horner and wife Cristine of Grand Junction, Leigh Birdwell and husband Bill of Wendell, Idaho, Charlene Wiegand of Grand Junction, Sandy Bates and husband Gary of Grand Junction, and sister-in-law Bonnie Nuss and husband Ken. He also leaves behind eight nieces and four nephews. Horner was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Nila Horner, and one sister, Geraldine Thayer.

A memorial service will be held today, Tuesday, Sept. 30, at 10 a.m. at Crippin Funeral Home Chapel, 802 E. Main St., in Montrose. Arrangements are under the direction of Crippin, 970/249-2121.