Harriet Johnson Durand

Harriet Viola Durand was born May 31, 1928 in Buffalo, WY and passed away June 2, 2018 at Madison House Assisted Living in Cortez, CO. Harriet passed away two days after her 90th birthday. Harriet is preceded in death by her parents, Harry and Nettie Johnson; her brother, Charles; her dear friend, Pat Durand; her son, Lee; and two grandsons, Adam and Tommy. Harriet is survived by her son, Harry Durand of Laurence, KS; her daughter, Theresa Durand Finley and son-in-law, Rick of Pleasant View, CO; her grandchildren, Jeremy, April, Kristin, Phebe and Renae; 11 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild. Harriet settled permanently in Cortez in 1958. She worked as a legal secretary in the law office of Dilts and Hancock. Harriet left home when she turned 50 years old and moved to Denver, CO to attend Arapahoe Community College to become a Para-Legal. At the time the college did not have an instructor to teach Law Office Procedures. Harriet taught the class and paid for most of her own college tuition. After college she worked for Guy Dyer doing estates for his law office. Harriet enjoyed many hobbies. She was an avid reader, John Grisham was a favorite author. Harriet loved flowers, especially roses. Many people visited to admire her beautiful roses. Harriet knew the names of every bird in the area and liked hummingbirds and cardinals. Harriet played golf and loved to swim. She taught swim lessons one summer at the Cortez pool. Harriet crocheted, did needlepoint and quilted. She won many blue ribbons at the county fair for her crafts. Every family member had a crocheted afghan and handmade Christmas stocking. After retirement Harriet enjoyed eating lunch at the Senior Center and a game of bridge after lunch. She served on a board for Senior Centers in the area. She also served one term on the city planning and zoning commission. Harriet moved to Madison House in February, 2012. Harriet always introduced herself to new residents and made them feel welcome. She helped the staff and other residents at mealtime. Later, when Harriet needed extra help, the staff took good care of her and were always there for her, she was family. Harriet will be deeply missed by her loved ones and friends.