Don Hunton

Don was born in Portales, New Mexico, to his parents, Ludvill Eppa Hunton Jr. and Lola Mae James, both educators in the Portales school system. He grew up in Portales and was a proud Eastern New Mexico University alumnus. After graduating from ENMU with a bachelor’s degree and MBA, Don joined the Army Reserves and began his successful service, sales, and regional sales management career with a government contractor computing company.

Don's roots in the farm and ranch land of Eastern New Mexico instilled a deep appreciation for a hard day’s work, respect for the land and its bounty, natural wildlife, being a good neighbor, and the importance of a firm handshake. It also provided him with an internal alarm clock that would faithfully wake him at 4 am to listen to the daily farm report.

Don was well-known for his bright green eyes and his beautiful, broad smile that was infectious to anyone he shared it with, which was anyone he could. He was also well-known for his love of stories and his ability to tell fantastic ones.

Don was most proud of his family and was dedicated to being the best father he could be. Don and his first wife, Mary Collins, raised their two children in Albuquerque, Denver, and finally, Colorado Springs. Although their marriage didn’t endure, they parted amicably, worked together, and sacrificed much from their careers to make the best opportunities for their children.

Don was with his second wife, Janice Proulx, for 27 years and assumed a substantial role as stepfather and grandfather to Janice’s adult children and grandchildren. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished his family above all else. He is survived by his wife Janice, his children Trent and Alissa from his first marriage, his stepchildren Paul, Tracy, and Heather, and his eight grandchildren. Don was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, Alan.

Don will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and colleagues, who will always remember him for his kindness, intelligence, and exceptional sense of humor.

A small, private memorial service will be held at Swan Law Funeral Home, as well as his inurnment at the Sisters of St. Francis Columbarium in Colorado Springs. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Fisher House Foundation, a military support organization near and dear to Don's heart.