Loretta Lacell Harris (Claunch), 79

Loretta Lacell Harris (Claunch) ,79, passed away in her home in La Jara, Colorado on October 1, 2017.  Loretta was born on July 21, 1938 in La Jara, Colorado to Albert and Rhea Claunch.  She married the love of her life, Gene Harris, on August 6, 1963 in Walsh, Colorado. 

In Loretta’s younger years she was a very talented barrel racer.  She won many races throughout her career but some of the ones that stood out the most was winning the Pancake Race as well as being awarded the International Traveling Griddle.

After she and Gene were married, they moved to Arizona, and then to Kansas to continue their farming.  They eventually ended up back in Colorado and made it their permanent home.  Loretta enjoyed passing time in her yard and garden.  She would spend hours weeding her flower beds and putting her green thumb to work growing beautiful flowers of every color and variety.

Loretta is survived by her loving husband, Gene Harris of the Family home in La Jara.  Her children; Bill (Tanya) Harris of Wyoming, Annie (Daniel) Northrip of Alamosa, Colorado, and Tom Harris of Colorado Springs, Colorado.  Her siblings; Sylvia (Jerry) Reeves of Salida, Colorado, Bucky (Cathy) Claunch of La Jara, Colorado, Lorine Francis of Monte Vista, Colorado, Bill (Shirley) Claunch of Monte Vista, Colorado, Albert Jr. (Eunice) Claunch of La Jara, Colorado, Clarine Denton of La Veta, Colorado, Alfred (Julie) Claunch of La jara, Colorado, and Arther (Cindy) Claunch of Magdelina, New Mexico.  As well as eight grandkids and numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and other extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents; Albert and Rhea Clarine Claunch. And her infant son, Albert Ray Harris.

A funeral Service will be held on Friday, October 6, at 10:00 A.M. at the Francis Arena located at the corner of County Road 8 South & County Road 100.  A viewing will be held from 9:00 to 10:00 A.M. also at the Francis Arena. Interment to follow in the San Luis Valley Cemetery in Monte Vista, Colorado.

If you would like to leave an online condolence or tribute for the family please visit Loretta’s obituary at www.RogersFunerals.com