Ernest Orahood

ERNEST ORAHOOD

Ernest Orahood, 96, longtime resident of La Junta, Colorado, passed away Saturday, March 9th in Roswell, after a brief illness. He is survived by his daughter and sonin law, Kathy and Bob Sabin, their children Michael and his wife Maria and son Andrew of Chattanooga, Tennessee and Michelle Pettit and her husband Mike and their children Marc, Jordin, and Julie of Roswell. Ernies wife, Ruby, and his four siblingsCarolyn Burt, and Harley, John, and Bob Orahoodall preceded him in death.

Ernest Orahood was an elementary school principal in La Junta for forty years, and received countless awards for his outstanding contributions to the educational system and to thousands of grateful students. After transforming barren schoolyards into parklike settings at his three grade schools, and building three greenhouses to facilitate students study of plant life, the community named a large sport park Orahood Park in his honor.

Following retirement he turned his tireless energies toward building a large historical museum complex. His lifes work of community service was honored by Colorados Governor Owen who presented him with the prestigious Colorado Cares Centennial Award for a lifetime of service to Colorado, his community, and its citizens.

His family wishes to give special thanks to Dr. Nelson and the beautiful young women of Beehive Homes who provided him with such warm and loving care.

A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at First Presbyterian Church in La Junta, Colorado on Tuesday, April 2nd at 11:00 AM.

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