February 26, 1988 – November 27, 2025
James Forrest Cason, 37, left this world unexpectedly on Thanksgiving Day 2025 at his family home in Ridgway, Colorado – a place woven into the landscape of his childhood and the quiet rhythm of his adult life. Forrest moved through the world with capable hands and a grounded spirit. A gifted artist, craftsman and thoughtful landscaper, he shaped the Earth with the same care he gave the people he loved. He attended Ouray and Telluride schools, graduating from Telluride High School in 2006. He was a proud member of the Telluride Snowboard Team. After studying at Montana State University and the University of Colorado in Boulder, he returned home to the mountains that had always called him back.
He belonged to the open sky. His passions – hunting , fishing, snowboarding, mountain biking and jet skiing – were not hobbies so much as conversations with the land itself. Forrest found peace in the wild places, and enjoyed sharing those moments with others.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Cason, and all grandparents with the exception of his grandmother, Suzanne Shepard. He leaves behind his mother, Elizabeth Kuehn, his brothers Caley and Tucker (Katherine) and mother to his son, Robin Linkenheil. Above all, he leaves his greatest gift and legacy – his beloved son, Landon, who carries forward Forrest’s light.
In honor of his memory, step outside, feel the wind, notice the mountains, hold close the people you love. Forrest lived simply, deeply and with reverence for the world around him – may we remember him each time we pause to marvel at the beauty of nature. Memorial services will be private.
Ouray County Plaindealer • 2025
