October 27, 1960-April 15, 2025
Ken Orvis, a beloved fixture of the Ridgway valley and an unforgettable character to all who knew him, passed away peacefully, Tuesday April 15, in his home. He was with his family and was held in the hearts of a community that won’t soon forget him.
Ken was born in Grand Junction, Colorado, on October 27, 1960. He spent his childhood and the better part of his life on his family ranch in Ridgway. The Orvis Springs Ranch was homesteaded in 1876 by his great-grandmother, Sarah Jarvis. Ken spent his life protecting and preserving the ranch to pass down to his sons and the fifth generation of the Orvis family to call it their home.
Ken had four sons: Tracy James Orvis, Walter Lewis Orvis, Marshall Joel Orvis and Hank Barrett Orvis, but he was thought of like a father to many, including Guy Music, Sarah Smedsrud and Richard Weber, who he helped raise and cared for like his own.
Ken was known for his knowledge and experience working underground. Throughout his life, he worked many of the mines on this side of Colorado. Some of those mines included The Oceola, The Pride of the West, Pittsburgh Level and The Camp Bird. Ken made many lifelong friends working the mines, including his partner Lance, who he went on to operate the famous Golden Wonder Mine with. Ken always had time to have a cup of coffee at the kitchen table and tell mining stories and people would come from all around to hear them.
In 2005, Ken purchased the Orvis Hot Springs originally started by his grandpa, Louie Orvis, in 1919. It was sold out of the family in 1933. Ken took great pride in repurchasing his grandpa’s business and turning it into one of the most sought out hot springs in the country.
Ken started a wild game meat processing plant, which has ran successfully for over thirty years, and is where he met his wife, Jessie.
Ken was the kind of man who could light up a room or a ranch with his booming voice, sharp wit and undeniable presence. His door was always open, and he always had a smile and a story to tell. He was always happy to help someone in need. He worked hard and cared for his family. He was a good man. He will be remembered fondly and deeply missed.
Ken’s celebration of life will be held at the main house on the Orvis Ranch Sunday, April 27, at 1 p.m. Please join us for drinks and laughs, it’s what he wanted!!
