Charles Hinton Obituary

Funeral services for lifelong Cortez resident Charles William Hinton will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 21 at Cortez Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Empire Street Chapel. Interment will follow at Cortez Cemetery.

Visitation has been scheduled for 10 a.m. at the church.

Charles William Hinton was born Sept. 17, 1918, a native of Montezuma County, the oldest of four children born to John William Hinton and Alta McEwen Hinton. He died at home on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2013 at 95 years old. He is survived by his three children, Steven and wife, Mary, Maxine Clinger and husband, Kenneth and DeEtta Johnson; and a sister, Mary McCauley all of Cortez. He has 10 grandchildren, 27 great grandchildren and eight great great grandchildren along with many cousins, nephews, nieces and friends.

He grew up on a ranch south of Cortez working with his mom and dad on the ranch and caring for their sheep operation. When Charles was about 11-12 years old it was never surprising to find his self with food, water and a bedroll and the herd of sheep at the foot of the Mesas. He might see his Dad again in about 4-5 days. Summertime he would trail the sheep to Bear Creek and then bring them home when it was time. About this time he wanted a 22 rifle. Money was short and no way was he having a gun-he was determined-he would buy the gun his self. He was determined throughout his life. He picked sheep wool from sagebrush and fences until he had enough gunny sacks full to pay for that 22 rifle.

He went to a one-room country school called Mesa Verde (nicknamed ignorant hill) located on the east end of County Road H. In the 8th grade his teacher was Lois Greenlee and he loved her. Charles entered 9th grade at Calkins. He rode his horse to school and when he reached the McElmo Bridge south on Road 25 over the side would go to his lunch. It was so mangled by then he knew it would not be good at noon. After going to the 9th grade several days, that was enough. He returned to Mesa Verde, and Mrs. Greenlee's eighth grade class. He was with his brother, Jim and sisters, Helen and Harriett. Yes, he went through the 8th grade twice.

It was at about this same time his mom and dad divorced and Charles was forced to help his mom with caring for the ranch and helping to make the living.

In the fall of 1938 Annie and her family returned to Cortez from the mining camps. This was the start of a relationship that would last for 70 years, until Annie died 3 years ago.

Charles was working for MVI in 1940-1942. In February 1942 he went to work for the Montezuma County Road Department. He served two years with the Army during World War II leaving in 1943 and returning home in 1946. He went to work for the County for 39 years retiring in 1981. Now he could spend his time and efforts ranching and enjoying his Herford. Annie always claimed she was his second love, his cows came first. Charles enjoyed ranching with his son Steven. They acquired property at Ground Hog and spent much time together trailing the cows to and from. It was always a family affair at branding time and when it was time to bring the cows home.

Charles was a member of the Southwest Colorado Livestock Association. In 1995 he was awarded the Stockman of the Year Award by the Livestock Association.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife, Annie; three siblings, one son-in-law, one daughter-in-law, one grandson-in-law, one great grandson and one granddaughter.

Living 95 years, he saw many miraculous changes take place and what stories he could tell. He lived a long life, a life that exemplified kindness, concern, was always helpful to those who needed it, a good worker, a great friend, a gracious neighbor, an involved citizen in the community, a honest loving man.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Southwest Livestock Association's Scholarship Fund, c/o 821 Henry Street, Cortez, Colo. 81321.

Services are under the direction of Ertel Funeral Home. For further information or to send condolences, log on to www.ertelfuneralhome.com and click on the obituary section.