Nov. 18, 1949 ~ June 26, 2023
Nolan Layton was born Nov. 18, 1949, in Aspen, Colorado. He was the son and first child of George and Doris (Smallwood) Layton of Meeker, Colorado. He grew up on the Layton ranch, 3614 County Road 4 in Meeker, helping with farming and ranching. Nolan graduated from Meeker High School in 1968. He resided on the family ranch until he married Joda Bates on Feb. 19, 1975, in Cathedral City, California. After residing in Meeker for a brief time with his new bride, he and Joda moved to Utah and then moved to California in the late 1970s.
To this union, three children were born — Larry, Sherry and Dorey Layton. Nolan and Joda enjoyed taking their children to visit Nolan’s parents, George and Doris Layton, on the Mesa in Meeker every summer for many years. After many years of marriage, Nolan and Joda parted ways, and Nolan returned to Meeker, Colorado, in 1994.
Nolan had a variety of professions ranging from grounds maintenance at a golf course in Palm Springs, California, to working for many years at City Market in Rifle, Colorado. He also managed a small engine repair business on and off throughout the years. Nolan appreciated the many friendships he made at City Market and the people he met participating in service activities for his congregation.
He is survived by his children Larry (Megan), Sherry, and Dorey (Roberto) all living in Indio, California. He also leaves behind 10 grandchildren: James, Hannah, Chase, Hope, Diego, Layla, Leo, Utopia, Evie and Angel. In addition, he also leaves behind one sister, Mary Herman and one brother, Lyle (Kathy) Layton.
After Nolan suffered several health issues in the later part of his life, he returned to California in January 2023, to spend the last months of his life close to his children. While Nolan passed away on June 26, 2023, in Indio, California, at his daughter Sherry’s home, his children plan to have his ashes scattered at a private family memorial service at a later date.
