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2016/07/21 - Montrose, AEB

(Lasa, Baxenabarre, June 14, 1926 - Montrose, CO, July 21, 2016)

Martin Etchart, a French Basque immigrant came to America's Uncompahgre Valley on May 12, 1947. Martin began as a sheepherder and ended as a prominent sheep rancher.

Martin was born in Lasse, France, one of six sons born to Fernand and Jeanie (Gomis) Etchart. After coming to America he returned to his homeland to marry his neighboring sweetheart, Marie Guecaimburu in 1960. They returned to Colorado and together started their journey in the sheep business.

Martin and Marie had three sons, Jean, Ernest and George. They enjoyed 38 years of marriage until Marie's passing in 1998.

Martin was preceded in death by all of his brothers, Arnauld, Emile, Pete, Jean, Michel; wife, Marie; their first born son, Jean and nephew, Ferandio.

He is survived by two sons, Ernest (Chris) Etchart and George (Jackie) Etchart; grandsons, Justin, Jacob and Nathan Etchart and granddaughter, Hannah (Fabian) Hightower. Also surviving are sister-in-law, Anna Etchart of Fruita; nephews, David (Donna), Mike (Allison), Joseph (Ellen), John (Sheryl) and Mark (Naomi) Etchart and niece, Mary Ann (Mike) Harper; sisters-in-law, Catherine and Dominica; brothers-in-law, Peyton and Benniat and niece, Jeanette, all who reside in France. 

In lieu of flowers the family wishes that you donate to The Western Slope Woolgrowers c/o Kenneth Zahniser, 18024 6353 Road in Montrose, Colorado 81403 and HopeWest Hospice in memory of Martin and Marie Etchart. 

Arrangements are under the care of Crippin Funeral Home and Crematory.

(Published in The Daily Sentinel on July 24, 2016)