John “George” Etz, Jr., 66, of Oxford, Colorado, unexpectedly passed into the arms of Jesus on March 11, 2026. He was born in Phoenix, Arizona to John and Arlene Etz on July 15, 1959. He married his wife, Danene, on August 16, 1980 and had two beautiful daughters, Kathryn “Katie” and Kellie.

He’d been a resident of La Plata County since January 1999. He loved cooking, barbecuing and smoking briskets, riding buggies in the mountains with friends, camping and most of all, spending time with his girls.

He was known to many as John or George but his most favorite name was Dampy. He loved his wife, daughters and granddaughters very well. He always brought so much joy, fun, humor, laughter, craziness and big love to each day. John never met a stranger and was a very generous and loving man. He truly loved the Lord and shared that passion with others.

He is survived by his wife: Danene M. Etz; daughters: Katie (Cole) Davis and Kellie (Jared) Curry; brother: Ronald (Linda) Etz; grandchildren: Peyton and Harper Curry, Thea and Della Davis; niece: Shannon Etz; nephew: David (Mady) Etz and many extended family members and wonderful friends. He was preceded by his mother: Joy Arlene Etz; grandparents: Bruce and Fay Elliott; William and Helen Etz.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 7th at 10:00 AM at The River Church, 860 Plymouth Dr., Durango, CO

In true John “George” fashion, we’re inviting everyone to wear their Caribbean attire.

John had a huge heart for youth ministry. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to John Etz Memorial Next Gen Giving to support the teen/college ministries at Overland Church.