Volney Robert LeBaron 89, of
Salida, CO died on July 16, 2016 at his home in Salida. He was born May 29, 1927 in
Colorado Springs, CO to Leon Burdette LeBaron and Mary Adeline Lollar. He had six siblings.
He volunteered to serve during World War II at the age of 17 in the U.S. Navy. He became and electrician and served in the Pacific Theatre. He received his GED from Colorado Springs High School upon his discharge.
Volney met Mary Theresa Rooney in Colorado Springs and they were married on August 10, 1951. Together they raised their four children. He knew a lot about Colorado. When he took his family on a weekend drive or on vacation, they would spend their time in Colorado enjoying the majesty.
He retired from Mountain Bell January 1, 1984. During his 36 years with the Phone Company, six years (1955-58 and 1959-63) were spent in Colorado Springs, two years (1958-1959) were spent in Salida where the LeBarons resided on F Street and the last twenty years (1963-1984) were spent in Arvada, Colorado where they resided on 57th Avenue and Estes Street. In 1981, prior to retirement , the LeBaron's bought property on K Street in Salida and moved in Dec-
ember 17, 1983 where they have lived for the last 33 years.
Volney was known in Salida for volunteering. He was on the Supervisory Committee of Mountain River Credit Union from 1985-1991. He was on the Board of Directors from 2003-2004 and during this time he started the conversation about their facility as it was inadequate for future growth. Volney thought they should buy a building; and after looking at various options, Mountain River Credit Union decided to
purchase the building that they were currently in and remodel it. He chaired the Building Committee from 2005-2006; and his vision, knowledge and support through the process gave them the lovely facility that they have today.
"Vol" became involved at the Salida Housing Authority in 1987. He became a board member in 1987 and then in 1991 he became Chairman of the Board. He was very involved in the remodeling project in 1992 which involved converting three units to handicapped equipped, all windows were
replaced throughout the complex, and kitchens were
remodeled as well in the community building. Landscaping was very important to him, and he oversaw the installation of a new sprinkler system and mulch around the buildings. He watched over all the remodeling activity and improvements on a nearly daily basis and was very proud of the final
outcome. Vol's theory was what we to today will benefit those in the future who live here. He thoroughly enjoyed
being a big part of the Housing Authority. He resigned from the board in 2011. He made it a better place for the residents.
Vol was active in the Collegiate Peaks Chapter of Trout
Unlimited for many years. He most enjoyed working with the youth and teaching them about fishing which included helping at the annual July 4th Fishing Derby at Frantz Lake. He helped on fence projects to protect streams from cattle and on
habitat restoration. He wanted to preserve the streams for future generations and to educate and pass on his love of
fishing to youngsters.
Volney took great pride in working in his yard and having a garden of which he would share the bountiful harvest with neighbors, friends and residents at Mount Shavano Manor.
During retirement the LeBarons loved traveling in their two fifth wheels, two motor homes and travel trailer crossing the country to visit their children and grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years; children Glessna
LeBaron (Ken Goecke) of Naples, FL, Thomas LeBaron of Salida; Volney Bart (Lori) LeBaron of Salida and Scott LeBaron of Arvada; eight grandchildren Thomas Noah (Danielle)
LeBaron of Northborough, Mass, Abigail LeBaron of Seattle, Sarah LeBaron Dean in San Diego, Larissa (Brandon) LeBaron Foster of Lakewood, CO, Lacey LeBaron of Steamboat Springs, David LeBaron Lowe (Miranda) of Dayton, OH, and Jessica and Joshua LeBaron of Arvada and four great grandchildren.
Per Mr. LeBaron's wishes cremation was done and no service will be held at this time. On line condolences may be sent to the family at
lewisandglenn.com. Arrangements are with
Lewis and Glenn Funeral Home.
Published by The Gazette on Jul. 22, 2016.