Robert Major Ellithorpe

Robert Major Ellithorpe passed away on May 11, 2010 at his home in Farmington, New Mexico. “Bob” was born on January 20, 1923 in Quinter, Kansas, to Harry Vincent and Jessie Belle (Wilson) Ellithorpe. He was a WWII Veteran having served as a Pharmacist’s Mate in the U. S. Navy. In 1945 he married Vivian Alice Carr. The couple and their children resided in Colorado, California, Nevada, and New Mexico. He worked many years potato farming and in construction. His passion was prospecting. In 1975, Bob discovered “The Gold Boulder of Summitville” in Colorado. This amazing gold specimen is now displayed at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science in Denver, Colorado. Bob was instrumental in seeing that the specimen remained in Colorado for his descendants to be able to view. He was an ardent rock hound and spent much of his last year cutting and polishing rocks and prospecting for that next gold strike. Bob has staked his last claim and will find new treasures in Heaven. He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Vivian Alice Carr Ellithorpe; baby son, Bryan; and a sister, Eleanor Frye. Survivors include 4 children, Jo Ann (Ernie) Minert of Farmington NM, Bruce (Judy) Ellithorpe of Las Vegas NV, Harry “Hank” Vaughn Ellithorpe, of Glendale AZ, and Peggy Ellithorpe of Los Angeles CA. He is survived by one sister, Barbara Bowdish-Remmers of Camp Verde AZ and one brother, V. W. “Bill” Ellithorpe of Monte Vista CO. Also surviving are 6 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. The family of Robert Ellithorpe wishes to thank all the family, friends and caregivers who helped in Bob’s care. Many thanks to all his rock hound buddies who visited and shared rock specimens. Bob touched many lives in his journey here on earth and will be missed by those who knew and loved him. Per Bob’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Bob is in the care of Brewer, Lee and Larkin, Farmington, New Mexico. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to the San Juan County Gem and Mineral Society, P. O. Box 1482, Farmington NM 87499. A Memorial Service to celebrate Bob’s life will be held in Monte Vista, Colorado at the Rogers Family Mortuary at 10:00am on Saturday, June 12, 2010. Brewer, Lee & Larkin Funeral Home 103 E. Ute Street Farmington, New Mexico 87401 (505) 325-8688