A Memorial Service for Robert Darnell will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, March 20, 2026 at the Bent County Community Center in Las Animas, Colorado with Pastor Rick Beard officiating.  Private inurnment will take place in the Bent County-Las Animas Cemetery.  Per Robert’s request, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation.

Obituary 

Robert Leroy Darnell was born on November 21, 1948 in Las Animas, Colorado to Walter Earl and Lyda Mae (McClaskey) Darnell.  He passed away on March 13, 2026 at Joni Fair Hospice House in Pueblo, Colorado at the age of 77.

Robert started his life on the family homestead in southern Bent County. His family moved to Las Animas when he was in the second grade, and it was there that he would grow up and build the life he loved. He attended Las Animas schools, forming lifelong friendships and deep ties to the community that would remain important to him throughout his life.

On December 3, 1966, Robert was united in marriage to Ruthie Cater.  This marriage was blessed with two sons, Ricky and Roy.  Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and caring for those around them.  In 1976, Robert began working for Bent County. Over the years, through dedication, knowledge, and a strong work ethic, he earned the respect of his coworkers and community. He eventually became the Bent County Road and Bridge Foreman, a position he proudly held until his retirement on May 17, 2024.

Above all, Robert loved his family. He cherished time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, taking joy in their accomplishments and the moments they shared together. He also had a special place in his heart for young people and found great fulfillment in helping kids through 4-H. Whether offering encouragement, guidance, or simply lending a helping hand, Robert was always willing to share his time and knowledge.

Robert is survived by his wife, Ruthie Darnell of the family home; children, Ricky (Jackie) Darnell of Corpus Christi, Texas and Roy (Laurie) Darnell of Holly, Colorado; 7 grandchildren, Curtis (Luna) Darnell, Zachary Darnell, Kent (Angela) Darnell, Ashley (Brandon) Nily, Robert (Kayla) Darnell, Lacey (Evan) Beard, and Haylee Darnell; 15 great grandchildren; brothers, Jimmy (Donna) Darnell and Freddy Darnell; many other relatives and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Thelma Darnell, Ruby Carpenter, Hazel Wilson, and Zella Mae “Betty” Potter; brothers, Walter Earl Darnell Jr. and Edwin Darnell.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sangre de Cristo Hospice in care of Valley Funeral & Cremation, P.O. Box 431, Las Animas, Colorado 81054.