Mark Allen Colby

Mark Allen Colby was born to Clair and Irene (Gislason) Colby on July 1, 1957, In Fargo ND. He was educated at Jefferson, Agassiz, and South High school, and was employed at Simonson Lumber as a teen. Mark lived in Fargo until early adulthood. In his early 20s, he joined the Johnny Holm band as part of the stage crew. After leaving the band, Mark moved to Paynesville MN and worked for the U.S. Postal Service. Mark returned to Fargo for a few years and then moved to Colorado in 2003 to be closer to family. Mark lived in LaVeta CO and worked for the old historic LaVeta Inn. He loved being around the people and the mountains there. As Mark’s health deteriorated, he was less able to perform physical duties, so he often worked as a pet sitter. Mark had a great love for animals, so this job fit him well. Mark also loved people–especially the “underdog”. He would do everything he could for a person or animal in need. He often experienced personal hardships due to putting others’ needs before his own. Mark’s generous nature dictated that even if he didn’t have much, he’d give it all to help someone else. Mark fought many personal battles–both physical and emotional–that took their toll on him in the last several years. However, he was courageous to the end. Even two days before he passed, Mark was talking about his desire to help people and animals in the future. He had a great drive to make a difference and use his experience to bless people in need. Right up to the end, he was coming up with volunteer opportunities that filled him with joy and optimism to think about. We want to express our family’s gratitude to all of his friends (as well as good people he didn’t even know) who helped Mark in some way–especially the last two years. We deeply appreciate Mary at Huerifano Social Services in Walsenburg CO, the staff at Utah Valley Hospital in Provo UT, and the staff at Orem Rehabilitation Center in Orem UT, for their diligent care and compassion for Mark. Mark is survived by a son, Nick Vinar of Buffalo MN, and two grandchildren, Anna Marie and Adlee. He is also survived by a sister, Nancy Wilson of Provo UT, and two brothers, Mike of Provo UT and Jerry (Alison) of Grand Junction, CO, and nieces Tracey (Joel) Christensen, Mysti (Sifa) Tupou, and Tiffany (Aaron) Weight. Mark is dearly missed, and will be remembered for his loyalty, his stubbornness, and his (often unfiltered) sense of humor! But mostly he will be remembered for his kind heart. In lieu of flowers, Mark would want donations in his honor sent to local animal rescues.

Mark Allen Colby

July 1, 1957 - December 15, 2021