James Eben Berthelson, 32, of Meeker, Colo., passed away Aug. 6, 2011, following a tragic accident. He was born Nov. 1, 1978, in Glenwood Springs, Colo., to Wiley and Susan Berthelson.Jeb attended school in Meeker through 12th grade and furthered his education at CNCC in the aviation technology program, proving himself to be an outstanding pilot.At a very young age, Jeb became a very active part of the family ranching operation. He loved to ride herd on the cattle, fix the fences, work in the hayfield, irrigate or any of the other miscellaneous jobs that needed to be done.As he grew up he developed many and varied interests. Jeb was a hunter, outdoorsman, fisherman, professional guide, gunsmith, marksman, gun collector, mechanic, welder, plumber, carpenter, equipment operator, irrigator, roper, gifted guitar player and musician. He could also tell a great story. No matter what his main interest or goals were at the time, he would master the subject. All neatly!A lifelong dream he recently fulfilled was to own and ride a red Harley Davidson.One of Jeb’s most admirable qualities and a source of joy was being Uncle Jebby to his niece, McKenna, and nephew, Brady. They were truly the light of his life. He came by this quality naturally because of his great admiration for his special uncles, Greg Berthelson and Les Sprod and his Aunt Sue. Also surviving Jeb are his parents, brother Brett and his wife Jessica, and beloved grandmother (Nama) Angela Sprod.Jeb will be remembered and missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him because of his caring and loving ways.Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2011, at 11 a.m. at the Fairfield Center in Meeker, Colo. Burial will be in the Highland Cemetery under the direction and care of the Blackburn Rio Blanco Funeral Homes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Rio Blanco Fire Protection District at P.O. Box 737, Meeker, Colo., 81641.
