March 16, 1935-September 26, 2023
Nancy Bradburn, 88, of Montrose, went to her heavenly home on September 26. She was surrounded by her loved ones at the time she passed.
Nancy was born on March 16, 1935, in South Bend, Indiana, and was the daughter of Paul and Vera Stout. She grew up with her older brother, Lawrence. Nancy also had a half-sister, Karen, whom she met later in life. Nancy graduated from Riley High School in 1953 and embarked on a beautiful journey when she married Daniel Bradburn on July 25 of the same year. Together, they were blessed with three children: Paul Bradburn, Daniel Bradburn, Jr., and Kristi Stryker.
In 1973, Nancy and Dan made a life-changing decision to move to the picturesque landscapes of Colorado. Nestling themselves beside a serene creek outside of Ridgway, they built their first home, marking the area’s first house in 25 years. They even secured the first-ever building permit issued in Ouray County. Dan, with the help of their eldest son Paul, ventured into the building business, building many homes in Ouray County. Meanwhile, Nancy became an active member of the Ridgway Columbine Club.
Nancy loved following her children’s and grandchildren’s activities. She was an avid fan of the Ridgway Demons, and she seldom missed a basketball game in over 15 years. In 1978, even though her children did not participate, Nancy took on the role of cheerleader sponsor and always spoke fondly of that time and “her girls.” Later in life, she and Dan could be found at the activities of their grandchildren. Whether it be basketball, football, baseball, or mountain biking, Nancy was always the biggest fan!
Nancy’s heart belonged to country living, and her first foray into livestock began when she received two orphaned lambs. Over time, their flock grew to 25 ewes and one ram, and she cherished every moment. Nancy also served as the 4H Sheep leader.
In 1984, Nancy and her friend Gail Jossi spearheaded a community effort to create the Ridgway Recipes and Remembrances cookbook when a town tennis court project faced budget constraints and could not be completed. The cookbook became a resounding success, and they went on to start Ridgway Community Pride (RCP), dedicated to raising funds for park improvements and providing Christmas presents for the less fortunate. That same year, Nancy played a pivotal role in initiating the Ridgway Rendezvous, an annual arts and crafts festival that continues to thrive. Her dedication and community spirit earned her the title of Ridgway Citizen of the Year in 1987.
At the age of 50, in 1985, Nancy embarked on a new career as a real estate agent, starting at a local office and eventually opening her own in 1987. She served as owner and broker until she sold her business in 2003.
In retirement, she and Dan settled in Montrose, where they established Fruit Park Storage. Nancy continued to work part-time until 2019. Nancy knew how to live a life of adventure. She and Dan could be found in retirement roaming the San Juans with their friends on their beloved RZR, full of laughter and smiles.
In July, Nancy and her soul mate, Dan, marked their extraordinary 70th wedding anniversary—a rare and cherished achievement that brought immense pride to Nancy.
Above all, Nancy was a devout follower of Jesus, a loving mother and grandmother who adored Colorado’s mountains and shared her vibrant spirit with the community she held close to her heart.
