VIRGIL PULS Obituary

Longtime Cortez Colorado resident, VIRGIL PULS passed peacefully in his sleep the morning of September 3rd, 2022. He was 91 years old. Virgil was born May 25th, 1931, the third son of George Otto and Minnie Reudink Puls in Beemer, Nebraska. The family moved to the Fruita, CO area during his childhood. He grew up working in crop fields and fruit orchards of the Grand Valley while attending various schools. He also worked on the family farm with his father to help provide for his mother and younger siblings.

In December of 1950 Virgil married Esther Marie Russell of Fruita. In May of 51 he enlisted in the United States Army. This service sent him to Germany as part of an artillery training unit. He was Honorably Discharged from active duty and Reserve in 1956. Upon returning to the States he learned and excelled in the trade of auto body and mechanic work which he utilized through later years. He was also a skilled carpenter and builder.

In 1959 Virgil joined the Colorado State Patrol. He moved his wife, Esther, and their two children to Cortez for his first duty station. The State Patrol became his career. He put his advancement on hold by refusing two promotions to allow his daughter to complete high school in Cortez. In the fall of 1974 he accepted a promotion to Sergeant and was assigned to Trinidad for two years and then Salida for about five. During his service he was assigned to a variety of security details for events and persons including Governor Richard Lamm. He accepted the opportunity to return to Cortez in 1981 as supervisor where he trained new recruits and patrolled the area until his retirement after 25 years with the CSP.

Virgil was an avid golfer. He enjoyed many hours of friendship and exercise on the courses in Salida and Cortez perfecting his game. He shot a "Hole in One" for 4 consecutive years along with many birdies and an occasional eagle. A fifth "One" never happened but he kept practicing. During his time in both cities, Virgil was active in the local ELKS organization. He served through the chairs and as Exalted Ruler of the Cortez chapter.

Virgil is survived by his wife, Esther, after sharing almost 72 years of marriage, daughter Janet Grimes and husband Ernie, grandsons Geoffrey and Stephen; also son Donald Puls and wife Margi, grandsons David and wife Anna, Daniel and his wife Kristie. He was gifted with six PULS great grandsons and one great grand daughter who will proudly carry his name forward. One brother, Robert, and his wife, Ellen, and numerous nieces and nephews also survive. He was predeceased by his parents, three brothers and two sisters.

The care and well being of his family was of utmost importance to Dad. We will remember the wisdom he shared along with his kind manner and loving, generous heart. He was a positive, supportive influence to us and many good friends on his life's journey. Dad would frequently respond with "Because I said so...that's why" to our questions. He had his reasons. They have become much clearer through time. Drive with Caution. Think Smart. BUCKLE UP. Go with good in your heart. Dad would appreciate that.

Adamson Life Celebration Home of Greeley will provide cremation with a private service at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver CO at a later date.