Walter Eldon Hartley was born on February 23, 1931 in Fox Creek.  He grew up working alongside his father in his father's sawmill.  He loved being outdoors and spent his time away from the family ranch/farm exploring the mountains near his home, fishing in the Conejos River, hunting, and running a trap line.Dad joined the U.S. Air Force when he was 18. He spent the next 22 years traveling the world and being part of the Korean and Vietnam wars.  While stationed at Lowry Air Force Base, he met an attractive nurse and married Rita Land Oct. 12, 1954, which was solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple June 24, 1966.Dad was a great example of hard work, service to his family, church and others and dedication to his country and religion. Dad passed away suddenly in his home March 21 at the age of 86.  He will be remembered as a great example, a caring and helpful father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, and neighbor.  His family learned how to serve and treat others with respect from both dad and mom.His wife and two sons, William and Michael, preceded him in death. Survivors include his sons, Devon (Lené), of Herriman, Utah, and David of American Fork, Utah; 11 grandchildren; and 10 (soon to be 13) great-grandchildren.A visitation was March 26 at Tabor-Rice Funeral Home in Brighton, which handled the arrangements. Funeral services were March 27 at the Denver North Stake Center, 100 Malley Drive, Northglenn.  Interment was at Fort Logan National Cemetery.