Rory Richard Stack, 42, died near his home on Animas Creek, N.M., on Jan. 29, 2005 after a long illness.

He was born March 31, 1962 in Denver, Colo. and spent his childhood in Palisade, Colo. He was popular and gregarious and greatly enjoyed the company of friends and family. He journeyed widely around the west, and was known for traveling light and living by his wits. He spent several years in Alaska, where he worked as a painting and maintenance supervisor at a large remote arctic mine. He also painted the historic Russian Orthodox Church on Unalaska Island in the Aleutian Islands, and visited many places and people throughout Alaska. He also lived in Flagstaff, Ariz. for a while and enjoyed returning for visits.

He enjoyed hiking, fishing and camping throughout the west. In particular, he loved to accompany his brothers and other family members on grueling, multi-day backpacking adventures in Colorado, Wyoming and Arizona.

We will miss his campfire wit and delicious mountain trout breakfasts. He was also a fabulous chef who delighted his family and friends with outstanding meals and desserts, and often used vegetables from his bountiful gardens.

He was skillful with all types of tools, and left behind many beautiful and useful creations in wood, masonry and paint. He loved animals and was a kind and gentle caretaker for his mother’s livestock. At the time of his death, he was studying business and computers, which he excelled at.

Rory never married, and left no children behind, but he will missed terribly by his family and friends. Survivors include his mother Sherry of Caballo, N.M., father Don, sister Nicki and brother Paul of Palisade, Colo., brothers Don Jr. and Vince of Flagstaff, Ariz., brother Andy of Oak Harbor, and numerous nieces and nephews. We thank everyone for their kindness and condolences, and appreciate your prayers for Rory, our beloved son, brother and uncle.

A memorial service will be held at noon on Saturday, March 5 at Palisade Park.