Donald "Don" Connors

Donald “Don” Connors, of Canon City, Colorado, passed away at the age of 97 on February 8, 2026. He was born on July 19, 1928, in Leadville, Colorado. He was a devoted husband to Mildred (Evans) Connors and a loving father to Tauna, Duane and Karen.

As a young man, he couldn’t wait to be a part of the World War II action and enlisted in the Army. He served with the 1st Calvary Division at Fort Bliss, Texas, and later with the 6th Quarter Master Detachment in Japan. After the war, Dad worked as a Stationary Engineer at Climax Molybdenum Company for sixteen years. In 1963, he started working for the Department of Corrections and retired in 1988, as a Stationary Engineer.

Dad did not like being the center of attention; however, he deserves to have his long years of fatherly love honored. He was a man of integrity and honesty and left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Dad’s hobbies and interests helped to define who he was. He enjoyed skiing, spending time in the outdoors with his family, raising German Shepards and riding motorcycles. He taught his children, grandchildren and anyone else who wanted to learn how to ski. As a young man he was a member of the Ski Patrol at Climax and Cooper Hill, Colorado. Despite his many responsibilities, he always made time for his family.

Dad was a lifetime member of the Leadville Elks, the VFW and the Harley Owner’s Group. He and mom traveled throughout Colorado on his Harley. At the age of 75, he rode his Harley to the 75th Harley Anniversary celebration in Sturgis, South Dakota.

Don is survived by his children, Tauna (John) Firestack, Duane (Frankie) Connors and Karen Connors; four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, as well as many extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Memorial Mass will be on Thursday, February 19, 2026, 10:30 a.m. at Saint Michael Catholic Church: 1029 College Ave. Canon City. Rosary one hour prior at 9:30 a.m. Inurnment following at Lakeside Cemetery.

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