Local entrepreneur and loving father, David Lee Coflin, passed away in his sleep at age 54 on January 5th surrounded by his family after a long yet heroic fight against cancer. Dave was greatly loved and will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him. Dave lost his battle with cancer after fighting it bravely and with unyielding optimism. He was an amazing partner, father and friend who always had a bright smile and an infectious spirit. He was a consummate gentleman to everyone he encountered. Although Dave suffered from a variety of health concerns during his years living in Telluride, he inspired all who knew him with his steadfast refusal to complain and his defiant optimism. Dave loved skiing and boating and will be remembered at many campfires as the Jiffy Pop King, the last man standing and the nicest man on the planet!

Dave grew up in Richmond, Virginia and graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University. He moved west and spent most of his adult life in Aspen and Telluride. He was a creative and industrious businessman who worked in banking, investments, real estate development and property management. His most recent endeavor was creating Vacation Rental Services, an innovative concept he conceived and developed to change the rental management model in resort destinations. He was thrilled with thepositive reception his concept received and it continues to grow based on his creative forethought and business savvy.

Dave leaves behind a lasting legacy. He is survived by his long-time companion, Tricia Maxon; his two children Olivia Coflin (20)currently attending Boston University and Gustavo “Goose” Coflin (17), both former THS students; his two step-daughters KealeyZaumseil (18), Kenzie Zaumseil (16), both current THS students; his father Joseph Coflin, his siblings, and the extended Maxon family plus his beloved Labrador, Jack.

Dave’s passing leaves a void in our hearts. His kindness and compassion were unmatched. In honor of Dave, Tricia and the family have joined resources with the Telluride Foundation and the Telluride Medical Center to establish a fund in Dave’s honor to help with the growing need for hospice care in San Miguel County. Donations can be made to the Telluride Foundation in support of the Dave Coflin Hospice Care Fund at Community Banks of Colorado.

Plans for a memorial service to remember Dave, will follow in the near future.