John Ely, 67, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.
The only child of Norman and Doris Ely, John was born in Connecticut and spent his youth hiking and canoeing in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey with his four-legged companion, Champ. John earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Colgate University in 1981, culminating in the publication of a scientific paper on the territorial instincts of the Jamaican Dusky.
In 1984, John graduated with honors from the University of Denver School of Law and continued his fierce dedication to environmental conservation.
After living life as a big city lawyer, John returned “home” to Aspen in 1986, a place he had never been before, to pursue John Denver’s dream in the mountains. Years later, John met Erin Fernandez and found his true partner to challenge, love and support him. With two wonderful children, Michael and Julia, and their loving partners, Kylie and Tabitha, John and Erin are happily living their best life together.
Every morning, John rose before the sun, preparing a full breakfast for himself and his dogs in the kitchen, his family awakened to the warm smell of freshly brewed coffee and a home filled with light and love to the sound of his whistling. John’s brilliance saw him as a man of many hats, from annual birthday poet to unofficial Jeopardy champion, detailed travel planner and mountain teacher.
Juan was a visionary. During his 32 years as Pitkin County Attorney, he consistently served with grace and firm conviction. Never one to shy away from the battle, his many accomplishments in protecting open space, protecting water, and promoting affordable housing have greatly improved our community.
Through multiple victories in the Colorado Supreme Court, John protected county property from numerous mining lawsuits, upheld moratoriums limiting mass development, and won a landmark case securing 1,000 acre-feet of water for the West Slope. John was especially proud of his contribution to the purchase of Smuggler Mountain Open Space.
Governor Bill Ritter recognized John with a Conservation Award in 2010 for his commitment to the “vision of healthy rivers and streams in the Roaring Fork Valley.” Through innovative legislative development, the Roaring Fork Whitewater Park in Basalt was approved for significant use of local water rights.
John served on the board of the Colorado River Water Conservancy District for 17 years, fostering his courageous spirit and ability to fight for what is right. He quietly and effectively fought against the Crystal River Dam and any project that threatened to take water away from the West Slope. An advocate for wildlife and rivers, he remained committed to his conservation approach.
John lived a rich and graceful life, always surprising those around him with his insight and words of wisdom. His patience, kindness, and intelligence touched the lives of many, and his legacy will live on through the impact he has on his friends, family, and community.
Arrangements are made to celebrate life in the fall.
