Charles Duran Sr., 86, of Colorado Springs went home to be with the Lord on December 20, 2020.
A native of Colorado Charles was born and raised in Rocky Ford. Charles graduated from UCCS with two degrees, Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science in Sociology. He also received his Masters degree in Elementary Education from Colorado College. Charles owned and operated The Mission Bell Inn restaurant for many years. He was a member of the Rotary Club and was a member of Holy Apostles Catholic Church. One of his proudest accomplishments was serving as a soldier in the United States Army, 101St Airborne Division where he was a Jumpmaster. Charles also served his community as an Elementary school teacher until he retired from District 11.
Charles was a devoted husband and father; he loved his family and spending time with them. He was also very passionate about hunting, fishing and the great outdoors; a legacy that continues to live on through his family. A season ticket holder for nearly 40 years he loved his Broncos and the memories created with friends and family who attended the games. He also attended two of the Broncos Super Bowls. Charles was also an accomplished oil painter and enjoyed sharing his gift with many students throughout his tenure.
Charles is preceded in death by his daughter Deena Kay Duran, his great grandson Dean Randall Berry, and his mother Jennie and father Eduardo and two brothers Edward and Roger Duran.
He is survived by his wife Theresa, three children, Chuck, Lisa and Debbie. Six grandchildren, Michelle, Kayln, Kira, Krystle, Chaz, and Zach. Seven great grandchildren, Antoña, Kayanah, Khlyer, Anthony, Lizzy, Vaira, and Milo. He also has two sisters, Creselda and Lillian.
His funeral will be held at Holy Apostles Catholic Church on December 29, 2020. There will be a Rosary at 12:30 P.M. with mass to follow at 1:00 P.M. There will be a graveside military ceremony at Evergreen Cemetery at 3:00 P.M. The family asks that if you want to send flowers that they be sent to Holy Apostles to be displayed at the service.
Unfortunately due to current restrictions there will be no reception following services.
Anonymous
24 Dec 2020To the Duran family. I was sad to learn of Charles’ death. As we taught together I saw his love for children , his family and his community. He has left a great legacy and touched countless lives. My deepest sympathy to you all.
Rosalee smith
Nancy Harmon
24 Dec 2020I always liked to call him pops, he was a very caring man. He and teresa use to love to come to family functions, The best one was Christmas. He will be missed by many. Until we meet again pops, rest in our lords loving arms.
Anonymous
24 Dec 2020I enjoyed teaching with Charles. We taught science together in 4th grade, at Wilson Elementary.
He was a wonderful person to work with. We are very sorry for your loss. Sue Hilty
Anonymous
25 Dec 2020Roger Duran oldest son of Edward Duran Charles brother uncle Charles was always forever good to me. It was so exciting to go to Colorado Springs and see them I remember the restaurant. Everyone always looked up to uncle Charles. It was nice to see him and my dad together. You could tell there was a lot of respect there. I remember very vividly in my mind when I was a child standing in the backseat of my dad‘s 56 Ford we were going down the highway between Rocky Ford and laJunta and uncle Charles pulled up next to us and my dad and him gave each other a gesture and he slammed it to the floor they were hauling ass down the highway racing! They were always razzen each other. It was always so interesting to talk to him. I’m sorry I can’t to say anymore right now. The tears are falling from my face. He was the greatest man I’ve ever known.
Pattie Bochniarz
25 Dec 2020Debbie & Family, So very saddened to hear this news. He was like a second dad in my mind and it was always so nice attending family functions over the years with you all. I loved seeing him and your mom…true soul mates and partners. They have instilled so many wonderful values into your family and marriages, and his legacy will live on for ages!. I have nothing but respect and honor him for all he has done and sacrificed throughout his life. God has welcomed a great angel….and he will always be with you and your family overlooking every step! Love you all and you are all in my prayers!❤?
Verlee Koskovich
27 Dec 2020My deepest sympathies to your family. I got to know Charles while at Wilson Elementary. He was a great teacher and always had a big smile on his face. The students and staff loved him. May the many beautiful memories remain in your hearts forever. ❤️❤️
Evelyn and Mel Lucero
27 Dec 2020Charles always had a kind word and smile for everyone. He inspired his students and worked hard to share his love of education with them. He was a man who had many good qualitites. We are sorry for your loss and know that he will be remembered in our prayers.
God Bless,
Mel and Evelyn Lucero
Beth Carlson
27 Dec 2020Charles was respected by children and staff at Wilson Elementary. I always enjoyed working in his presence, even though I was in another part of the building with young children. My thoughts are with his family during their time of loss.
Wanda Tydingco
27 Dec 2020Charles was a very caring man. He will be greatly missed. My sympathy goes out to the family but knowing he leaves behind a wonderful legacy is some consolation.
Lorraine Duran
29 Dec 2020When I married Ed I met two great people that made me feel welcome, his brother Charles and his wife Theresa. We had so much fun together, it what I’ll never forget. Now Charles is in heaven along with his brothers Ed and Roger. You can never forget good people like Charles. I will miss him very much, I love him, I love his beautiful wife. ❤️
John Thompson, President, 101st Abn Div Assn
5 Jan 2021Soar with Eagles Brother. Charles is a proud veteran and a member of the local chapter of the 101st Airborne Division Association for many years. He will be missed.