Paul Eugene Hughes of Montrose, Colorado, passed peacefully at home on Sunday, March 1, 2026, following a brief battle with cancer. Born on June 4, 1941, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Paul spent his childhood in Elbert, where he graduated from Falcon High School in 1959. Shortly thereafter, he moved to Pearl, Colorado, and began his career in the logging industry, working alongside his father.

On April 30, 1960, Paul married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Betty Diedrichs. Together they built a life centered on family and hard work. They settled near Encampment, Wyoming, where they lived in timber camps while starting their family. A few years later, they moved to Walden, Colorado, purchased their first home, and continued growing their family.

Paul dedicated most of his working life to the timber industry. He owned and operated a skidder until the early 1980s, when changes in the industry led him to pursue other opportunities. He then worked alongside his brother, John, operating heavy equipment. In 1985, Paul and Betty relocated to Montrose, Colorado, where he returned to timber work, helping clear timber and build roads.

In the early 1990s, a neighbor approached Paul to assist with her lawn care business. What began as a helping hand grew into a second career. Upon her retirement, Paul purchased the business and partnered with his youngest daughter, Becky. Together they cared for properties and built lasting friendships with clients throughout the Montrose area until his retirement in 2005.

Retirement allowed Paul and Betty to enjoy many of the activities they loved together. They traveled, explored the outdoors, searched for rocks and gemstones, hunted mushrooms, and spent winters in Arizona. Paul was happiest when he was outdoors or working with his hands. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, cutting and polishing rocks, and challenging himself with crossword and Sudoku puzzles.

Paul will be remembered for his strong work ethic, quiet determination and love of the outdoors. His presence, wisdom, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by 3 daughters, Paula Wofford (Steve) of Walden, CO, Amy Rux (Ron) of Cottonwood, AZ, and Becky Olson (Marty) of Del Rio, TX and granddaughters Amanda (Quentin), Jessica (John), Molly, Heather, and Alyson (Jerry), a grandson Zach, 5 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews. He is proceeded in death by his wife Betty, his father John Hughes, mother Belle Evans, brothers Larry and John Hughes, and sister Frances Oliver. A family memorial will be held at the end of June. In lieu of flowers and gifts, donations may be made in memory of Paul Hughes to HopeWest Hospice in Montrose, Colorado.