Ion Dan Spor

Ion Dan Spor, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, pastor, and counselor, passed peacefully into the presence of the Lord on March 19, 2025, at the age of 74. Ion was born on November 25, 1950, in Telluride, Colorado, to Earnest Spor and Annie Proper. He was raised in the Montrose and Colona area alongside his older sister, Doretta, and older brother, Raymond (“Ray”).

 After graduating from high school, Ion pursued a diploma in Biblical Education from the Western Bible Institute in Morrison, Colorado. It was there he met his beloved wife, Delores Ann Emert. The two were married on May 22, 1971, and together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and service. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in 2021—a milestone that reflected their deep commitment to one another and God.

Ion and Delores made their home near Olathe, Colorado, where they raised their two children, Robin and Benjamin. Ion was a loving father and a proud grandfather to Zachary Neelley and the late Hunter Neelley, who passed away on October 12, 2014, after a courageous battle with cancer. Delores preceded Ion in death on April 8, 2022. 

Throughout his life, Ion was passionate about teaching, preaching, and counseling. He served faithfully in ministry for decades and was ordained in 1983. He ministered throughout the Uncompahgre Valley as both a guest speaker and interim pastor, offering wisdom, compassion, and spiritual guidance to many. 

Ion also worked for 30 years at Tri-County Waters, where he fondly referred to his work site as “The pile of dirt,” known more formally as the Ridgway Dam. His dedication to his work mirrored his commitment to helping others. 

Ion’s academic achievements included a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Carolina Christian University (1990) and a Doctor of Philosophy in Temperament Therapy from Emmanuel Baptist University (1990). He received certification as a Licensed Clinical Pastoral Counselor from the National Christian Counselors Association in 1993. His passion for learning and sharing knowledge never diminished. 

Ion will be remembered for his deep faith, unwavering kindness, gentle spirit, and the wisdom he so freely gave. His life was a reflection of Christ’s love, and his absence is deeply felt by all who knew him. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Church on the Hill, Montrose, CO, with live streaming available at www.montrosechurchonthehill.org via YouTube. 

Memorial donations may be made to: House of Promise / 180 Ministries / Teen Challenge 7750 6025 Road Olathe, CO 81425 

This ministry held a special place in Ion’s heart. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have shared their prayers, love, and support.

 “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, we also believe that God will bring with Jesus those who died while believing in him.” — 1 Thessalonians 4:14 (TPT)